bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An efficient early detection of diabetic retinopathy using dwarf mongoose optimization based deep belief network
Authors: Abirami A. , Kavitha R.
Published: October 2022

In general, diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common ocular disease that causes damage to the retina due to blood leakage from the vessels. Earlier detection of DR becomes a complicated task and it is necessary to prevent complete blindness. Various physical examinations are employed in DR detection but manual diagnosis results in misclassification results. Therefore, this article proposes a novel technique to predict and classify the DR disease effectively. The significant objective of the proposed approach involves the effective classification of fundus retinal images into two namely, normal (absence of DR) and abnormal (presence of DR). The proposed DR detection utilizes three vital phases namely, the data preprocessing, image augmentation, feature extraction, and classification. Initially, the image preprocessing is done to remove unwanted noises and to enhance images. Then, the preprocessed image is augmented to enhance the size and quality of the training images. This article proposes a novel modified Gaussian convolutional deep belief network based dwarf mongoose optimization algorithm for effective extraction and classification of retinal images. In this article, an ODIR‐2019 dataset is employed in detecting and classifying DR disease. Finally, the experimentation is carried out and the proposed approach achieved 97% of accuracy. This implies that our proposed approach effectively classifies the fundus retinal images.
A comparison of nest‐site characteristics for two sympatric Estrildid finches (Uraeginthus spp.) in Tanzania
Authors: Ota Nao
Published: October 2022

It is well known that birds have great diversity in nesting strategies, but we still have limited knowledge of the variation among species that share the habitat. Here, I will report and compare the nesting strategies between the two sympatric songbirds. Blue‐capped (Uraeginthus cyanocephalus) and red‐cheeked cordon‐bleus (Uraeginthus bengalus) are socially monogamous, biparental songbirds (family Estrildidae) that sympatrically inhabit arid landscapes with trees and bushes in East Africa. Both species build domed nests with grasses that are often located near wasp nests. They also sometimes take over old weaver (family Ploceidae) nests. While these nesting strategies are already described as common behavioral traits in both species in the literature, interspecies variation in these nesting strategies in areas of sympatry is not reported. My initial field observation during their breeding season suggested that whether these nesting strategies were adopted or not varied somewhat between the sympatric cordon‐bleus. Thus, I carried out a more formal investigation to test these differences. I found that red‐cheeked cordon‐bleus built their nests near wasp nests more frequently than blue‐capped cordon‐bleus, while I did not find any other significant differences between the nesting sites of the two species, such as the use of weaver nests, the types of nesting plants, or nest heights. These results suggest that the sympatric cordon‐bleus share several nest‐site characteristics, but that red‐cheeked cordon‐bleus have an affinity for nesting near wasp nests. Further studies will be required to elucidate the costs and benefits of these nesting strategies or the role that adjacency to wasp nests might play in the sympatry of the two species.
Coat color mismatch improves survival of a keystone boreal herbivore: Energetic advantages exceed lost camouflage
Authors: Kennah Joanie L. , Peers Michael J. L. , Vander Wal Eric , Majchrzak Yasmine N. , Menzies Allyson K. , Studd Emily K. , Boonstra Rudy , Humphries Murray M. , Jung Thomas S. , Kenney Alice J. , Krebs Charles J. , Boutin Stan
Published: October 2022

Climate warming is causing asynchronies between animal phenology and environments. Mismatched traits, such as coat color change mismatched with snow, can decrease survival. However, coat change does not serve a singular adaptive benefit of camouflage, and alternate coat change functions may confer advantages that supersede mismatch costs. We found that mismatch reduced, rather than increased, autumn mortality risk of snowshoe hares in Yukon by 86.5% when mismatch occurred. We suggest that the increased coat insulation and lower metabolic rates of winter‐acclimatized hares confer energetic advantages to white mismatched hares that reduce their mortality risk. We found that white mismatched hares forage 17–77 min less per day than matched brown hares between 0°C and −10°C, thus lowering their predation risk and increasing survival. We found no effect of mismatch on spring mortality risk, during which mismatch occurred at warmer temperatures, suggesting a potential temperature limit at which the costs of conspicuousness outweigh energetic benefits.
Species portfolio effects dominate seasonal zooplankton stabilization within a large temperate lake
Authors: O'Connor Reilly F. , McMeans Bailey C. , Rooney Neil , Guzzo Matthew M. , Young Joelle D. , McCann Kevin S.
Published: October 2022

Portfolio effects (PEs) in ecology refer to the suite of phenomenon where the temporal variation of aggregate ecosystem properties (i.e., abundance) is lower than that of their ecosystem components. An example of this is where differential responses of species to environmental variation generate stability at higher levels of ecological organization (e.g., local community, metapopulation, metacommunity). Most of the research examining such PEs has focused on spatial or interannual variation of ecosystems; however, as global change continues to alter seasonality and ecosystem functioning, understanding the underlying food web structures that help maintain stability at multiple spatial and temporal scales is critical to managing ecological systems. Recent advances investigating diversity‐stability relationships has led to the development of frameworks that incorporate a metacommunity perspective which allows for the partitioning of PEs across organizational scales (i.e., local community, metapopulation, cross‐community, metacommunity) from local population dynamics (total). This partitioning yields insights into the mechanisms that generate observed PEs in nature. Here, we employed one of these recently developed frameworks on a temporally (1986–1999, 2008–2019) and spatially (five sampling stations, local communities) extensive data set of zooplankton abundance (e.g., density) within a large temperate lake to investigate how temporal (seasonal) and spatial (among site) PEs influence stability within the zooplankton metacommunity. We found that seasonal asynchrony of different zooplankton species within local communities and across communities generated the vast majority of stabilization, while spatial (i.e., metapopulation) dynamics were more synchronous and contributed little to overall system stability. Furthermore, significantly positive diversity‐asynchrony relationships at the total, local‐ and cross‐community scales were found as asynchrony was positively correlated with local Shannon diversity. Last, a comparison of PEs over the time periods, during which significant local and global changes (i.e., climate warming, invasive species) have occurred suggests that PEs may be eroding, as increasingly synchronous dynamics and declining diversity in recent years have led to a rise in metacommunity variability. We end by arguing for the critical importance of understanding seasonally driven stabilizing mechanisms as local and global changes threaten to fundamentally alter seasonal signals with potentially strong implications for the structures that lend stability to ecosystems.
Skewness in bee and flower phenological distributions
Authors: Stemkovski Michael , Dickson Rachel G. , Griffin Sean R. , Inouye Brian D. , Inouye David W. , Pardee Gabriella L. , Underwood Nora , Irwin Rebecca E.
Published: October 2022

Phenological distributions are characterized by their central tendency, breadth, and shape, and all three determine the extent to which interacting species overlap in time. Pollination mutualisms rely on temporal co‐occurrence of pollinators and their floral resources, and although much work has been done to characterize the shapes of flower phenological distributions, similar studies that include pollinators are lacking. Here, we provide the first broad assessment of skewness, a component of distribution shape, for a bee community. We compare skewness in bees to that in flowers, relate bee and flower skewness to other properties of their phenology, and quantify the potential consequences of differences in skewness between bees and flowers. Both bee and flower phenologies tend to be right‐skewed, with a more exaggerated asymmetry in bees. Early‐season species tend to be the most skewed, and this relationship is also stronger in bees than in flowers. Based on a simulation experiment, differences in bee and flower skewness could account for up to 14% of pairwise overlap differences. Given the potential for interaction loss, we argue that difference in skewness of interacting species is an underappreciated property of phenological change.
Improving the Performance of Lithium‐Ion Batteries Using a Two‐Layer, Hard Carbon‐Containing Silicon Anode for Use in High‐Energy Electrodes
Authors: Gottschalk Laura , Oertel Christine , Strzelczyk Nanny , Müller Jannes , Krüger Jannik , Haselrieder Wolfgang , Kwade Arno
Published: October 2022

Lithium‐ion battery cells with high‐energy density and good fast charging properties are subject of current research. One approach to achieve high‐energy densities is the use of higher mass loadings. The challenges of these so called “thick” electrodes are transport limitations: lithium ions cannot reach all layers of the electrode, which results in a drop of performance. Possible concepts to overcome these limitations are the use of different active materials (silicon oxide, graphite, and hard carbon (HC)), and a two‐layer coating of the anode to create a defined pore network, which reduces the ionic resistance and ensure better fast charging capability even at higher mass loadings (8 mAh cm−2). It could be demonstrated that by using a two‐layered anode with HC in the upper layer, the electrical conductivity could be increased by a factor of 10 compared to the reference anode. Furthermore, the interporous HC leads to a capacity retention increase up to 20% with no loss of capacity at moderate C‐rates and a low electrode density. This can be explained by the low tortuosity that results in additional conductive paths for the ions through the coating, reduces the ionic resistance, and ultimately enables faster lithiation of the anode.
The Impact of Calendering Process Variables on the Impedance and Capacity Fade of Lithium‐Ion Cells: An Explainable Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Faraji Niri Mona , Apachitei Geanina , Lain Michael , Copley Mark , Marco James
Published: October 2022

Determining the calendering process variables during electrode manufacturing is critical to guarantee lithium‐ion battery cell's performance; however, it is challenging due to the strong and unknown interdependencies. Herein, explainable machine learning (ML) techniques are used to uncover the impact of calendering process variables on the cells’ performance in terms of impedance and capacity fade. The study is based on experimental data from pilot‐scale manufacturing line considering critical factors of calendering gap, calendering temperature, electrodes’ coating weight, and target porosity. It offers a hierarchical methodology based on designed experiment, data‐oriented modeling via ML techniques, and model explainability technologies. The study reveals the relative importance of calendering control variables for cell impedance and capacity fade and quantifies the contribution of factors and the predictability of the cell's characteristics. The results show that the calendering factors affect cell's performance differently and are dominated by electrode features.
Maximum power point tracking algorithms for wind power generation system: Review, comparison and analysis
Authors: Zhang Xinge , Jia Junru , Zheng Liming , Yi Wenwu , Zhang Zhen
Published: October 2022

Wind energy is one of the most important clean energies and the variable speed constant frequency technology is widely used in wind energy conversion systems. Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is essential for a variable speed constant frequency wind power generation system. Concerning the current research on the MPPT algorithm, this paper studies the principle, characteristics, and reported improvement strategies of principal algorithms. Through the comparison of simulation results for selected control algorithms, the improved optimal torque control algorithm has been found to be the best MPPT algorithm for wind power generation systems because of its simplicity and efficiency. On this basis, further corresponding simulation runs are carried out to analyze the effect of the wind speed fluctuation characteristics on the systematic dynamic performance and power generation efficiency. The results show that the average wind speed, wind fluctuation frequency, and wind fluctuation amplitude can affect the performance of system operation and the efficiency of wind energy capture in different degrees, which has a great practical significance for the research of MPPT control strategy.
Study on the repair parameters for trailing‐edge bonding failure of wind turbine blade in service
Authors: Li Hui , Zhang Xueyan , Zhou Bo , Wang Long , Zhu Chengyong
Published: October 2022

A numerical analysis method of trailing edge deboning is proposed in this paper. Using this method, multiple repair parameters can be quantified by analyzing aerodynamic responses and structural characteristics of the trailing edge. This method can be applied to three types of trailing edge, including blunt trailing edge, transitional trailing edge, and pointed trailing edge. In this study, the repair parameters are divided into two types, including the internal parameters that can affect the bonding strength and the external parameters that can affect the stiffness and aerodynamic shape. The main research steps are as follows: First, a repair structure shell‐body model was developed. Second, static tensile tests were carried out using 49 specimens, covering two lap joint types and seven bonding thicknesses. Finally, nine different repaired trailing edge models were developed using Ansys/Fluent for each two two‐dimensional airfoil. A 30–40 m section of a 71 m blade was used to develop a three‐dimensional (3D) rotating model with the repaired trailing edge. The simulation results show that the two internal parameters, overlap length and the slope of adhesive joints, are the key to improving the bonding performance of the pointed trailing edge. In addition, the bonding thickness range of 1–10 mm is proved by the experiment results and numerical analysis to be sufficient for good bonding performance. Besides this, the influence of the repair height on the aerodynamic pressure distribution and lift coefficient is much greater than the repair width, and the torque and power of the repaired 3D blade model are 1.91% higher than that of the original blade. This should further help provide an effective theoretical basis for determining the repair plan for a wind turbine blade.
Blockchain‐based asset storage and service mechanism to metaverse universe: Metarepo
Authors: Ersoy Mevlüt , Gürfidan Remzi
Published: October 2022

Digital modeling of the real world with 3D modeling technologies has recently prepared the groundwork for Metaverse. Metaverse is an ecosystem that will allow social and cultural events in the real world to be carried out in the digital world as well. Inspired by this framework, this study presents an approach called MetaRepo, where users can securely store digital assets (cryptocurrency, avatars, clothes, tickets, etc.) and use them in various activities within the metaverse universe. The motivation for the realization of this study is the security problems in the exchange, buying and selling transactions that take place in the virtual universes that have become popular in recent days. Another source of motivation is the anxiety of the object owners having their possessions stolen, lost, and transferred to another universe in the Metaverse. Blockchain technology, which can store assets in MetaRepo, has been used to address these concerns. In the developed blockchain structure, New User Engine, Transaction Centre, Authenticator Engine (Weng) and Repos models have been developed for user interaction, transaction processing and security mechanism. An exemplary metaverse universe including social activities has been designed for the testing and evaluation processes of the proposed MetaRepo approach. MetaRepo is communicated from the browser via APIs. Detailed performance analysis has been carried out for the proposed model. As a result, with MetaRepo, a mechanism is aimed at which users can communicate with different metaverse universes and platforms without the need for extra verification and security measures within the metaverse universe.
Provenance and statistical analysis of the Lower Oligocene gravelly deposits in central Pindos foreland basin, western Greece: Implications for orogenic build‐up and unroofing
Authors: Kovani Andriana , Botziolis Chrysanthos , Maravelis Angelos G. , Pantopoulos George , Iliopoulos George , Zelilidis Avraam
Published: October 2022

This study integrates provenance and statistical data, along with published sedimentological results, applied on the Lower Oligocene submarine‐fan deposits in Pindos foreland basin. Twelve outcrops were analysed using conglomerate clast composition, petrographic and statistical analysis and this integration suggests that the studied deposits were sourced by the Pindos Orogen. Conglomerate clast composition analysis suggests that the studied deposits contain mainly limestone clasts, followed by sandstone and chert clasts. This conclusion is further supported by the petrographic and cathodoluminescence analyses that have been conducted on the conglomerate matrix and, additionally, suggest the influence of a low‐grade metamorphic source. Potential source rock candidates in the Pindos Orogen that provided the detritus in the succession are represented by the Mesozoic carbonates (limestone and chert), the Cenozoic transitional (mixed carbonate and siliciclastic) and the Cenozoic clastic submarine‐fan deposits (sandstone). The rock units of Pelagonian zone likely represent the low‐grade metamorphic source rock. The principal component and cluster analysis of clast lithologies suggest the existence of three compositional clusters, with the first one being controlled by black chert clasts, the second one by sandstone clasts and the third one by limestone and red chert clasts. The upward increase of chert and lithic fragment abundances is ascribed to the progressive unroofing of the Pindos orogenic source regions. This study utilizes the Pindos foreland basin as an example to unravel the contribution of orogenic processes on sedimentary provenance of the adjacent pro‐foreland basins. Furthermore, this study highlights the advantage of implementing a multi‐faceted approach, including statistical treatment in sedimentary provenance.
Mortality due to noninfectious lower respiratory diseases: A spatiotemporal, cross‐sectional study
Authors: Amiri Parastoo , Hashtarkhani Soheil , Yazdizadeh Ashraf , Ahmadian Leila
Published: October 2022

Background and Aims

Geography plays an important role in the incidence of respiratory diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiology and geographical distribution of death due to noninfectious lower respiratory diseases (NILRDs).

Methods

Data related to all death due to NILRD in Kerman Province between 2012 and 2018 were extracted from the National Mortality Registry. The underlying causes of death were extracted from the registry based on the assigned codes from ICD‐10 (International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision) classification. The existence of spatial clusters and outliers was evaluated using local indicators of spatial association statistics.

Results

The frequency of death due to NILRD was 8005 persons during the 7 years of the study. The main cause of death was chronic lower respiratory disease (54.2%). Other causes of death were, respectively, lung diseases due to external agents (1.09%), other respiratory diseases mainly affecting the interstitium (1.16%), other diseases of pleura (0.57%), and other diseases of the respiratory system (42.13%). The age‐ and sex‐adjusted mortality rates due to NILRD in the north and center of the province increased significantly from 2012 to 2018. Also, the results of cluster analysis identified northern regions as the clustered areas of NILRD.

Conclusions

Our findings showed a significant increase in mortality due to NILRD in Kerman Province during the 7 years of the study. To reduce this type of death, health policymakers should have environmental health plans and basic solutions, such as a warning system to reduce the commuting on highly air‐polluted days and to control pollutants, especially in the industrial areas of the north of this province.
Effects of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and COVID‐19 pandemic on menstrual health of women: A systematic review
Authors: Tayyaba Rehan Syeda , Imran Laiba , Mansoor Hussain , Sayyeda Qudsia , Hussain Hassan ul , Cheema Mustafa Sajjad , Tahir Muhammad Junaid , Asghar Muhammad Sohaib , Mahmmoud Fadelallah Eljack Mohammed , Islam Md. Saiful
Published: October 2022

Background

The menstrual cycle in women is the main indicator of their reproductive health which is affected by the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. This review aims to summarize the effects of the COVID‐19 infection and the global pandemic on the menstrual health of women.

Methods

The literature search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane library, and Google Scholar using keywords “COVID‐19,” “Menstrual Cycle,” “Menstrual Cycle Irregularities,” “Amenorrhea,” “Polymenorrhea,” and “Dysmenorrhea.” The articles were selected according to the following inclusion criteria: (i) cross‐sectional studies, (ii) cohort studies, (iii) surveys, and (iv) other observational studies observing the effects of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection or COVID‐19 pandemic on menstrual health of women. Exclusion criteria included: case reports, gray literature, and website articles regarding menstrual health.

Results

A total of 30,510 articles were shortlisted after a comprehensive search. Sixteen articles were included out of which 13 studies investigated the effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the menstrual cycle while 3 evaluated the possible effects of COVID‐19 infection on the menstrual health of women. Menstrual disorders or irregularities were a more common finding during the pandemic as compared to before (p = 0.008). Women affected by pandemic‐related stress were more prone to changes in the duration of their menses (p = 0.0008), reported heavier bleeding (p = 0.028), and increased incidence of painful periods (p < 0.0001). COVID‐19 infected women also reported changes in their menstrual cycle including irregular menstruation, increased symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, and infrequent menstruation.

Conclusions

Women suffering from COVID‐19 infection or pandemic‐associated stress and anxiety were more likely to experience irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, and other menstrual abnormalities compared to those who were less exposed.
Preclinical safety evaluation of Lipase OF fromCandida cylindracea
Authors: Matten Kevin J. , Hashikawa Shinnosuke , Harada Kazunori
Published: October 2022

Triacylglycerol lipases are enzymes commonly used to process foods and beverages such as oils, wines, and cheeses through catalyzation of long‐chain triglyceride hydrolysis. Lipase OF derived fromCandida cylindracea(strain MS‐5‐OF) is only intended for use as a processing aid in food production applications; however, it may be present at trace levels in some products. As such, the safety of Lipase OF was evaluated in this study that included a bacterial reverse mutation assay, an in vitro chromosome aberration test, and a 90‐day subchronic toxicity study in rats. In the in vitro bacterial reverse mutation and chromosome aberration assays, Lipase OF was not observed to be mutagenic at concentrations up to 5000 μg/plate and 50 μg/ml, respectively, in the presence or absence of metabolic activation. Results from the 90‐day subchronic toxicity study indicated only minimal adverse effects (i.e., increased platelet count and prothrombin time) in male rats from the high‐dose group following administration of Lipase OF via the diet at levels of 0, 1.0, 2.5, and 5.0 w/w%. The no‐observed‐adverse‐effect level (NOAEL) for Lipase OF was therefore considered 2.5 w/w% (1597.6 mg/kg body weight/day [1027.3 mg TOS/kg body weight/day]) in males and 5.0 w/w% (3700.4 mg/kg body weight/day [2379.4 mg TOS/kg body weight/day]) in females under the test conditions. Thus, the evidence presented within this study supports the safe use of Lipase OF as a processing aid in various food production applications for human consumption.
Effective removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous solution by iron‐carbonized solid waste composite: behavior mechanism and factor analysis
Authors: Shi Yahui , Zhang Hongkui , Wei Yawei , Wan Dongjin , Liu Yongde , Gao Yafei
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND

The spent bleaching earth (SBE) is a solid waste produced during the refining of vegetable oil, with features of high residual oil and difficult disposal. At present, pollution control by the treatment of waste is a hot issue to attract more and more attention. This study used SBE as the raw materials and developed a new type of iron‐carbon composite (FexOy/SBE@C) by loading iron on spent bleaching earth carbon (SBE@C) to remove Cr(VI) in water. SBE@C was obtained by the pyrolysis of SBE.

RESULTS

The behavior mechanism and factor analysis of FexOy/SBE@C for Cr(VI) removal in water were investigated for the first time. At first, one‐factor experiments in the preparation process were adopted to obtain FexOy/SBE@C with optimal performance. By characterization analysis of the optimal FexOy/SBE@C before and after Cr(VI) removal, it was found that the Cr(VI) removal mechanism was adsorption followed by reduction. Specifically, the adsorption kinetic and isotherm behaviors of FexOy/SBE@C for Cr(VI) belong to the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm, respectively. Cr(VI) removal by FexOy/SBE@C is spontaneous (△G<0) and endothermic (△H>0). The presence of coexisting anions (i.e., BrO3− < SO42− < PO43−) and the increase of pH (only adsorption at pH>7) are not conductive to Cr(VI) removal by FexOy/SBE@C. Fortunately, N2 atmospheres can promote Cr(VI) removal (~100%) that is significantly higher than those in air atmosphere (63.34%) and natural conditions (82.25%).

CONCLUSION

Overall, FexOy/SBE@C has the satisfactory Cr(VI) removal performance through physical adsorption and chemical reduction, and exhibits great potential application value in Cr(VI) elimination from water. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Evaluation of the effects of conservation practices carried out in the 1970s on soil properties in the Eastern Region of Paraguay
Authors: Villalba‐Martínez Carlos J. , Merino Agustín , Etchervers‐Barra Jorge
Published: October 2022

Soils in subtropical and tropical regions are extremely fragile to perturbations due to their sandy texture, acid nature, low soil organic carbon (SOC) and low cation exchange capacity. In Paraguay, deforestation and subsequent cultivation affect 60% of the land. Certain conservation practices were carried out in the 1970s in response to the important degree of degradation caused by the soil degradative processes. Although the management of crop soils is still very intensive, to date there is no data on how the practices are affecting the sustainability of the system. The objective of this study was to evaluate the chemical and physical properties of three subtropical soils (Ultisol, Alfisol and Oxisol) under different agricultural systems and types of management, aimed at conservation, in the Eastern Region of Paraguay. The agricultural systems differ in the main crop (soybean or maize) and rotation crop (oat, turnip, crotalaria, lupins, maize). The soil properties were compared with those in disturbed natural forests and eucalypt plantations established on former agricultural land. The physical and chemical properties of the soil were determined in the 0 to 40 cm layer. The soils in the disturbed natural forest systems were less acidic and contained more Ca, Mg and K than the cultivated soils. Relative to the seminatural forests, the cultivated soils contained 20 to 40% less SOC and had lower macronutrient reserves and higher bulk density (up to 1.45 g cm−3). The SOC was higher in the agricultural systems with oats sown as a rotation crop in winter. By contrast, the N content was higher in systems with lupins or turnips grown in winter. Even when managed using conservation practices (direct sowing, retention of harvest residues, green manure), the soils in the agricultural systems under study displayed signs of physical and chemical degradation. The findings show that these conservation practices are not sufficient to correct the impact of intensive agricultural management.
Rating Scales for Medication Adherence in Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review for Critique and Recommendations
Authors: Tosin Michelle H.S. , de Oliveira Beatriz Guitton R.B. , Goetz Christopher G. , Morisky Donald , McConvey Victor , Skorvanek Matej , Schrag Anette , Martinez‐Martin Pablo , Stebbins Glenn T. ,   members of the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society Clinical Outcome Assessments (MDS‐COA) Scientific Evaluation Committee
Published: October 2022

Background

Behaviors interfering with medication adherence (MA) are common and often complex in Parkinson's disease (PD), negatively affecting quality of life and undermining the value of clinical trials. The Clinical Outcome Assessments (COA) Scientific Evaluation Committee of the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society (MDS) commissioned the assessment of MA rating scales to recommend the use in PD.

Objective

Critically review the measurement properties of rating scales used to assess MA in PD and to issue recommendations.

Methods

We conducted systematic review across seven databases to identify structured scales to assess MA in PD. Eligible studies were critically appraised for methodological quality using the Consensus‐based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) Risk of Bias checklist. Standards for good measurement properties of the selected scales were summarized narratively using the COSMIN, the MDS‐COA Committee methodology, the World Health Organization concepts, and the Ascertaining Barriers to Compliance taxonomy. The certainty of the evidence was determined using the modified Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach with final assessments (highest to lowest) of “Recommended,” “Suggested” and “Listed”.

Results

Of the nine reviewed scales, none met the designation “Recommended”. The Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS‐8); Beliefs Related to Medications Adherence questionnaire, Beliefs about Medication Questionnaire, Medication Adherence Rating Scale, and Satisfaction with Information on Medicines Scale were rated “Suggested”.

Conclusions

We suggest further work focusing on resolving the problems of the suggested scales or developing a new scale meeting all required criteria.
Telehealth Transdiagnostic Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression in Parkinson's Disease: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Piers Ryan J. , Farchione Todd J. , Wong Bonnie , Rosellini Anthony J. , Cronin‐Golomb Alice
Published: October 2022

Background

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for depression in persons with Parkinson′s disease (PwPD), but there are significant barriers preventing PwPD from receiving care in person. Telehealth CBT circumvents many of these barriers.

Objectives

We conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial evaluating the efficacy, feasibility, and acceptability of telehealth transdiagnostic CBT intervention for depression in PwPD.

Methods

Twelve PwPD with Major Depressive Disorder were enrolled, half randomly assigned to the treatment‐immediate condition (TI) and half to the waitlist control condition (WLC). TI and WLC participants received 12 CBT sessions and assessments before treatment, immediately after treatment, and at the 6‐week follow‐up.

Results

The intervention was efficacious for treating depression in PwPD, with secondary benefits to anxiety, apathy, learning, memory, and quality of life. Improvements were largely maintained at follow‐up. The intervention was highly feasible and acceptable.

Conclusions

Telehealth transdiagnostic CBT was an effective intervention for PwPD with depression.
Can international students help increase China's total factor productivity?
Authors: Zhong Min , Wang Zengtao , Du Siyi
Published: October 2022

We examine the impact of international students on China's total factor productivity (TFP) from 2000 to 2017 using two‐way fixed effect, IV‐2SLS, and system GMM methods. The results are as follows. (1) International students can promote the growth of China's TFP. (2) Short‐term international students play a more important role than long‐term international students. International students contributed the most to TFP growth in the eastern region, followed by the central and western regions. (3) The main ways that international students facilitate the growth of TFP are through improving technical progress and reducing education costs.
Growing number of judges committing to reform efforts for persons with SMI
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: October 2022

Motivated by an awareness that individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) often don't receive fair treatment in the criminal justice system, a growing number of judges around the country are receiving training on best practices and sharing the knowledge with colleagues.
Satcher report examines economic burden of MH inequities
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: October 2022

Observing a goal to close an important gap in behavioral health and health equity research related to mental health inequities, a four‐year analysis of data from the Satcher Health Leadership Institute at Morehouse School of Medicine (SHLI) estimates that there were nearly 117,000 preventable deaths among minority groups between 2016 and 2020. The startling find by SHLI also estimates that the total cost of those disparities reached $278 billion over that four‐year span.
Program to treat at‐risk children, keep families together
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: October 2022

Reducing inpatient hospitalizations, increasing outpatient utilizations, and producing cost savings represent outcomes an Oklahoma‐based mental health center is seeking by providing intensive treatment to families with children at risk of needing inpatient treatment and enabling families who need extra support to live successfully in the community.
λ‐spheres as a new reference model for the geoid
Authors: Kovalchuk Vasyl , Mladenov Ivailo M.
Published: October 2022

We propose here a new reference model approximating the actual shape of the Earth. It is based on
‐spheres as an alternative to the rotational ellipsoids. Relying on quite convenient parametrization of the
‐spheres, we have obtained the concise expression for its
‐coordinate as a combination of the incomplete elliptic integrals of all three kinds. Next, we have derived the geodesic equations on the
‐spheres and solved them in the analytical form using the mechanical method developed in our previous papers. As a result, three kinds of geodesics have been obtained for different values of the integration constant
, that is, the meridians, the Equator, and the slant geodesics. We have also found the conditions that should be fulfilled in order to obtain a closed slant geodesics, whereas the meridians and the Equator are closed by construction. Finally, we have presented the comparison of the newly proposed
‐sphere's model of the geoid with the most popular ellipsoidal reference models.
Ultra‐wideband planar patch antenna array using multimode resonant antenna element for millimeter‐wave applications
Authors: Tan Qingquan , Fan Kuikui , Yu Yufeng , Yin Chuan , Luo Guoqing
Published: October 2022

This letter proposes an ultra‐wideband planar patch antenna array in a millimeter wave (mmW) band. The radiation element consists of a pair of symmetrical E‐shaped patches and two pairs of grounded metallic vias. A microstrip line is selected to excite the antenna element through an H‐shaped coupling slot. The entire structure is designed on two substrates, which makes it have a relatively low cost. The periodic boundaries are adopted in element simulation to achieve good agreement of performances between the element and the final array. The proposed element exhibits triple‐resonant characteristics and achieves a working bandwidth of 62%. By employing the proposed element, an 8 × 8 array with a 1‐to‐64 full‐corporate feeding network is designed, manufactured, and measured. The measured results demonstrate that the fabricated array prototype realizes an impedance bandwidth of 71% from 22 to 46.3 GHz covering all 5G mmW bands in the K/Ka band, a gain from 18.2 to 23.4 dBi over the whole operating bandwidth, and cross‐polarization levels below –30 dB. With the merits of an ultra‐wideband, stable radiation, and a low cost, the proposed array can be applied to long‐distance mmW communications and related applications.
Bycatch in a Coastal Black Drum Trotline Fishery
Authors: Midway Stephen R. , Schaefer Allen , Lively Julie A.
Published: October 2022

Bycatch remains a challenging issue for many fisheries across the globe. Due to the cost and effort of (bycatch) observer programs, many fisheries—particularly those not in U.S. federal waters—operate with little information about bycatch. The Black Drum Pogonias cromis and Sheepshead Archosargus probatocephalus fishery in Louisiana comprises one of the largest fisheries by volume and in recent years has exceeded US$5 million in annual value. The vast majority of Black Drum and Sheepshead are harvested by the baited trotline fishery that operates in state waters. Very little is known about the bycatch from this fishery; however, because of the magnitude of the fishery quantifying bycatch is needed for the management of this resource. We observed 59 baited trotline sets on 13 different dates spanning 2 years of sampling (2020–2021). The total bycatch (n = 1,392) was similar in number to the harvest of the target species (n = 1,265). However, most bycatch species were nongame fishes and were released alive. Of all the bycatch caught, only 4% was dead and the majority of that 4% (47 out of 57 fish) consisted of Gafftopsail Catfish Bagre marinus and Hardhead Catfish Ariopsis felis, both species for which there is little fishery and no known issues with the populations. We also found that catch rates for bycatch did not vary by season or between the two areas fished. The catch rate of bycatch did not increase as the catch rate of target species increased; although, as expected, bycatch mortality did significantly increase as water temperature increased. Overall, the baited trotline fishery for Black Drum and Sheepshead catches about one individual of bycatch for one target individual; however, the overall extremely low bycatch mortality (of common species) suggests that this fishery operates with few adverse effects on nontarget species.
Sine transform based preconditioning techniques for space fractional diffusion equations
Authors: Qin Hai‐Hua , Pang Hong‐Kui , Sun Hai‐Wei
Published: October 2022

We study the preconditioned iterative methods for the linear systems arising from the numerical solution of the multi‐dimensional space fractional diffusion equations. A sine transform based preconditioning technique is developed according to the symmetric and skew‐symmetric splitting of the Toeplitz factor in the resulting coefficient matrix. Theoretical analyses show that the upper bound of relative residual norm of the GMRES method when applied to the preconditioned linear system is mesh‐independent which implies the linear convergence. Numerical experiments are carried out to illustrate the correctness of the theoretical results and the effectiveness of the proposed preconditioning technique.
Mechanical properties of interlayer hybrid textile composite materials based on modified aramid and UHMWPE fabrics
Authors: Li Cuiyu , Song Jiajia , Xing Wenjin , Wang Linxin , Cui Yueyan , Pei Xiaoyuan
Published: October 2022

Aramid fibers and ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers lack active surface functional groups, and the surface is smooth, limiting their practical application in textile composite materials. In this study, zinc oxide nanorods were used to grow on aramid fibers surfaces, and oxygen plasma followed by treatment with a silane coupling agent was used to modify UHMWPE fibers. The effects of surface modification on the surface morphology and composition, and mechanical properties of fibers and composites were investigated. The mechanical response of interlayer hybrid textile composite materials based on modified aramid and UHMWPE fabrics was examined. The results reveal that surface roughness, active surface functional groups, and wettability that can be controlled by treatment conditions and parameters are important for improving interface adhesion. In addition, the interlayer hybridization pattern as a result of using dissimilar layer materials and altering stacking sequence has a great impact on the mechanical behavior of hybrid textile composite materials.
Development of hydrophobic polyurethane film from structurally modified castor oil and its anticorrosive performance
Authors: Mohanty Sudhanya , Borah Kashmiri , Kashyap Siddhartha Shankar , Sarmah Sanjib , Bera Manas Kumar , Basak Pratyay , Narayan Ramanuj
Published: October 2022

Hydrophobic polyurethane (PU) films are widely used for various commercial and industrial applications due to their excellent water repelling and self‐cleaning property. Nevertheless, achieving appreciable hydrophobicity in PU film is quite a challenge. Herein, we report on the development of a novel hydrophobic PU (fluorinated polyurethane [FCO‐PU]) film and comprehensively evaluate its anticorrosive property. The FCO‐PU was prepared by structural modification of castor oil (CO) through attachment of long fluorocarbon chains as pendant groups onto the backbone of CO. A model PU film (CO‐PU) was also prepared from unmodified CO to compare the properties of FCO‐PU film. All intermediate compounds, FCO‐PU and CO‐PU films were characterized by various spectroscopic techniques. Morphological, thermal and mechanical properties of the PU films were analyzed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) studies. Successful introduction of long fluorocarbon chains into the FCO‐PU film is reflected by its high hydrophobicity with a water contact angle of 119.1°, compared to the model CO‐PU film with a water contact angle of 84.4°. Anticorrosive properties of the PU films were evaluated by polarization technique and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy under corrosive environment and the obtained results reveal a significant corrosion resistance (corrosion rate: 6.72 × 10−6 mm/year) behavior by the FCO‐PU film. This work represents an effective strategy for the backbone modification of CO to develop novel functional PU materials.
Improved Gold Nanoprobes for Detection of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms: The Influence of Size
Authors: Enea Maria , Peixoto de Almeida Miguel , Dias André , Ferreira Beatriz , Bernardes Carlos , Flores Orfeu , Pereira Eulália , Franco Ricardo
Published: October 2022

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are widely used in biomedical diagnostics due to their unique plasmonic properties, with larger AuNPs showing higher extinction coefficients for the plasmon band and, consequently, more intense colors than the more commonly used spherical 20 nm AuNPs. Other factors can be important in the performance of different‐sized AuNPs, including surface area, colloidal stability, and curvature effects. Here, the properties of spherical 20 nm AuNPs and 35 nm AuNPs functionalized with a specific thiol‐modified oligonucleotide–Au nanoprobes are compared when used on a colorimetric assay for the detection of a single nucleotide polymorphism related to lactose intolerance in humans. Successful functionalization of AuNPs is assessed by UV–vis spectroscopy, agarose gel electrophoresis, dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering, and nanoparticle tracking analysis. Statistical differences between Au‐nanoprobe DNA target groups are calculated using analysis of variance and a post hoc Tukey's test. These results show that both 35 and 20 nm Au nanoprobes have similar detection limits using a 0.15 nmol dm−3 nanoprobe concentration compared to 2.5 nmol dm−3. Interestingly, the use of 35 nm Au nanoprobes allows a reduction of 80% and 48% in the amount of gold and oligonucleotide used in the assay, respectively.
Quality of life in children with diseases causing central airway obstruction: Reliability and validity of the TAPQOL questionnaire
Authors: Díaz‐García Carolina , Valverde‐Molina José , Martínez‐Gimeno Antonio , Antón‐Pacheco Sánchez Juan L.
Published: October 2022

Introduction

The aim of this study was to analyse the psychometric performance (reliability and validity) of the TAPQOL questionnaire in measuring the global quality of life in children with central airway obstruction (CAO), which encompasses pathologies with a low prevalence that have a common anatomical or functional affectation.

Method

The study population consisted of 109 patients with CAO attended in a national reference airway unitafter signing informed consent. The TAPQOL questionnaire was used to measure the global quality of life and its psychometric characteristics were analysed. The reliability was determined using Cronbach's α statistic and the validity was determined by means of a principal component analysis.

Results

The mean age was 4.8 years and there was no predominant sex. The most frequent diagnosis was laryngomalacia (24.5%), followed bysubglotticstenosis (20.2%). The lowest score in the TAPQOL questionnaire was obtained for the scales of anxiety (66.2 ± 23.7), respiratory (67.9 ± 29.6), and conduct 68.2 ± 21.4). The Cronbach's α was above 0.7 in the majority of the scales and the validity study by principal component analysis with a total variance of 76.7% fits the original 12‐component model.

Conclusions

TAPQOL is a valid tool to measure the health‐related quality of life in patients with CAO. Measuring it in these patients indicates which fields are most affected, highlighting therapeutic needs that have not been resolved but which can be approached in normal clinical practice.