bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perspective: Improving the accuracy of plant phenology observations and land-cover and land-use detection by optical satellite remote-sensing in the Asian tropics
Authors: Shin Nagai , Katsumata Chifuyu , Miura Tomoaki , Tsutsumida Narumasa , Ichie Tomoaki , Kotani Ayumi , Nakagawa Michiko , Khoon Kho Lip , Kobayashi Hideki , Kumagai Tomo’omi , Tei Shunsuke , Pungga Runi anak Sylvester , Yamada Taizo , Kameda Akihiro , Yanagisawa Masayuki , Nasahara Kenlo Nishida , Muraoka Hiroyuki , Ichii Kazuhito , Tokumoto Yuji
Published: February 2023

Recent advances in satellite-borne optical sensors led to important developments in the monitoring of tropical ecosystems in Asia, which have been strongly affected by recent anthropogenic activities and climate change. Based on our feasibility analyses conducted in Indonesia in Sumatra and Sarawak, Malaysia in Borneo, we discuss the current situation, problems, recent improvements, and future tasks regarding plant phenology observations and land-cover and land-use detection. We found that the Multispectral Instrument (MSI) on board the Sentinel-2A/2B satellites with a 10-m spatial resolution and 5-day observational intervals could be used to monitor phenology among tree species. For the Advanced Himawari Imager (AHI) on board the Himawari-8 geostationary satellite with a 1,000-m spatial resolution and 10-min observational intervals, we found that the time-series in vegetation indices without gaps due to cloud contamination may be used to accurately detect the timing and patterns of phenology among tree species, although the spatial resolution of the sensor requires further improvement. We also found and validated that text and pictures with geolocation information published on the Internet, and historical field notes could be used for ground-truthing land cover and land use in the past and present time. The future development of both high frequency (≤ 10 min) and high spatial resolution (≤ 10 m) optical sensors aboard satellites is expected to dramatically improve our understanding of ecosystems in the tropical Asia.
DNA strand displacement based computational systems and their applications
Authors: Chen Congzhou , Wen Jinda , Wen Zhibin , Song Sijie , Shi Xiaolong
Published: February 2023

DNA computing has become the focus of computing research due to its excellent parallel processing capability, data storage capacity, and low energy consumption characteristics. DNA computational units can be precisely programmed through the sequence specificity and base pair principle. Then, computational units can be cascaded and integrated to form large DNA computing systems. Among them, DNA strand displacement (DSD) is the simplest but most efficient method for constructing DNA computing systems. The inputs and outputs of DSD are signal strands that can be transferred to the next unit. DSD has been used to construct logic gates, integrated circuits, artificial neural networks, etc. This review introduced the recent development of DSD-based computational systems and their applications. Some DSD-related tools and issues are also discussed.
Evolution of antibody profiles against SARS-CoV-2 in experienced and naïve vaccinated elderly people
Authors: Sanz-Muñoz Iván , López-Mongil Rosa , Sánchez-Martínez Javier , Sánchez-de Prada Laura , González Marta Domínguez-Gil , Pérez-SanJose Diana , Rojo-Rello Silvia , Hernán-García Cristina , Fernández-Espinilla Virginia , de Lejarazu-Leonardo Raúl Ortiz , Castrodeza-Sanz Javier , Eiros José María
Published: February 2023

Introduction

The third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine is especially necessary in people over 65 years of age due to their lower immune response.

Methods

We designed a multicentre, prospective observational study including 98 people ≤65 years old who lived in two nursing homes in Valladolid, Spain. One of the groups had previous experience with SARS-CoV-2 (n=68;69.4%) and the other was naïve (n=30;30.6%). We evaluated the response to the three doses of the Comirnaty vaccine and the dynamics of antibodies during 5 consecutive serum samplings: 2 after the first two doses of vaccination, one three months after the first dose, another at 6 months and the last one month after the third dose. IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 S1, RBD and N antigens were analysed.

Results

Both groups increased the level of Abs against S1 and RBD, but the experienced group showed a 130-fold higher humoral response due to hybrid immunisation (infection+vaccination). The response to vaccination with Comirnaty against COVID-19 was higher in those ≤65 years with previous experience than those who were naïve. However, the amount of antibodies against S1 and RBD equalised at 6 months. After the third dose, both groups raised the amount of antibodies to a similar level. The reinfections suggested by the analysis of antibodies against N were frequent in both groups.

Discussion

The third dose showed a clear benefit for elderly people, with the reinforcement of the antibody levels after the decline suffered after six months of the first two doses.
Cetacean bycatch management in regional fisheries management organizations: Current progress, gaps, and looking ahead
Authors: Elliott Brianna , Tarzia Marguerite , Read Andrew J.
Published: February 2023

Bycatch is the leading global threat to cetaceans, with at least 300,000 cetaceans estimated to be killed each year in fisheries. Regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs) are key actors in global fisheries management, including bycatch reduction, but their role in cetacean bycatch management is often overlooked. The primary mandate of RFMOs is to manage fisheries of target stocks, but many of their Convention Agreements call for addressing bycatch of threatened and protected species in their fisheries, including cetaceans. We reviewed 14 RFMOs to understand their current cetacean bycatch management efforts. We developed twenty-five criteria for best practices in cetacean bycatch management to understand efforts made by each RFMO, grouped into five categories: 1) general bycatch governance; 2) observer coverage; 3) quantitative bycatch limits; 4) data analysis and transparency; and 5) mitigation efforts. Collectively, based on our application of these criteria, RFMOs scored highest in “data analysis and transparency” (average=0.74) and lowest in setting “quantitative bycatch limits” (average=0.15). Overall, RFMOs have passed few binding conservation and management measures focused on cetacean bycatch, particularly compared to those addressing the bycatch of seabirds and sea turtles; the few existing measures are primarily focused on bycatch in purse seines. Notwithstanding the United Nations (UN) large-scale drift gillnet ban (46/215) on the high seas, only one RFMO has passed a management measure specifically focused on cetaceans and gillnets, widely recognized as the gear type posing the highest risk to cetaceans. No measure in any RFMO specifically addresses cetacean bycatch in longlines. We provide recommendations to the RFMO community to encourage progress on this critical issue, including leveraging other recent policy developments such as the adoption of the 2021 UN Food and Agriculture Organization Guidelines to prevent and reduce bycatch of marine mammals in capture fisheries and implementation of the U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act Import Provisions.
Proposing a novel classification of growth periods based on biomechanical properties and seasonal changes of Spartina anglica
Authors: Keimer Kara , Kosmalla Viktoria , Prüter Inga , Lojek Oliver , Prinz Markus , Schürenkamp David , Freund Holger , Goseberg Nils
Published: February 2023

Salt marshes are a valuable ecosystem with coastal protection potential, for example by absorbing hydrodynamic energy, increasing sedimentation and stabilizing the soil. This study investigated biomechanical properties of Spartina anglica to improve future models of wave-vegetation interaction. To fully understand the correlations between hydro- and biomechanics, the biomechanical vegetation properties from December 2021 to July 2022 are investigated with specimens collected from the field monthly. 551 specimens were used to determine the vegetation properties during storm surge season with high hydrodynamic forces. Additional geometrical properties were determined for 1265 specimens. Three-point bending tests measured the stiffness S (N/mm) and maximum forces Fmax (N). Different phenological states were observed over time and separated for analysis. These states provide a novel classification of growth periods for evaluating the coastal protection potential of Spartina anglica. Especially during storm season, most specimen were identified as broken shoots with a mean stiffness of 1.92N/mm (using 304 samples) compared to the bottom part of flowering shoots in December and January with a mean stiffness of 2.98N/mm (using 61 samples). The classification of plant properties recognizing phenological differences, based on plant state and seasonality, can be used to explain and reduce variability of biomechanical properties obtained during field campaigns. Additionally, this study shows that March to April is recommended for future investigations focusing on shoot properties during storm surge season, which is the important season for coastal engineers considering vegetation state.
Study on immunogenicity of Lrp subunit vaccine against Vibrio alginolyticus in pearl gentian grouper(♀Epinephelus fuscoguttatus ×♂Epinephelus lanceolatus)
Authors: Wan Mingyue , Ding Yu
Published: February 2023

Vibrio alginolyticus is the main pathogen causing vibriosis in pearl gentian grouper, which has caused significant financial losses to farmers. To develop a sustainable and effective subunit vaccine for the prevention and control of vibriosis, Lrp recombinant protein from V. alginolyticus was expressed and purified in this study. Western Blotting and ELISA demonstrated that Lrp recombinant protein with relatively higher antigenicity in V. alginolyticus can be used as an antigen for the subunit vaccine. Chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) is a very potential aquatic vaccine adjuvant to boost the immunological protection of the vaccine. Therefore, to evaluate the immune response and protection of the subunit vaccine against V. alginolyticus in pearl gentian grouper, we designed the Lrp group and Lrp+COS group as experimental groups with PBS as the control group. Immunological testing revealed that grouper serum from the experimental group had significantly higher levels of the particular antibody IgM, lysozyme (LZM), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) than serum from the control group. Additionally, groupers from the experimental group showed higher immune gene expression levels, namely IgM, CD8α, MHC-Iα, IL-1β, IL-16, and TNF-α. After the challenge experiment, the immune protection rates of the Lrp group and Lrp+COS group were respectively enhanced to 60% and 72%. The aforementioned findings demonstrated that the Lrp+COS group’s immunological impact was superior to that of the Lrp group. Therefore, the Lrp+COS subunit vaccine is a promising candidate for the prevention and management of vibrio infection in pearl grouper.
Impact of local iron enrichment on the small benthic biota in the deep Arctic Ocean
Authors: Soltwedel Thomas , Rapp Josephine Z. , Hasemann Christiane
Published: February 2023

This study assesses the impact of local iron enrichment on the small benthic biota (bacteria, meiofauna) at the deep seafloor. To evaluate the hypothesis that abundance, distribution, and diversity of the small benthic biota varies in relation to a local input of structural steel at the seabed, we analyzed sediment samples and the associated infauna along a short transect (~1.5 m in length) with increasing distance to an iron source, i.e., corroding steel weights (30 cm in length and width, and 6 cm in height) of a free-falling observational platform (bottom-lander), lying on the seafloor for approximately seven years. Bacterial and meiofaunal densities and biomasses in iron-enriched sediments were significantly lower than those in unaffected sediments. Moreover, bacterial and nematode community structure between iron-enriched sediments and unaffected sediments differed strongly; taxonomic richness as well as diversity was lowest closest to the iron source. The presence of iron fostered the establishment of specialized iron oxidizers and other chemolithoautotrophic bacterial members, which were rare or absent in the unaffected sediments, within which opportunistic heterotrophs predominated. Nematodes comprised >90% of the total metazoan meiofauna and were therefore studied in more detail. A total of 26 genera from 16 families occurred in iron-enriched sediments (three genera were found exclusively in these sediments), while 65 genera from 27 families occurred in the unaffected sediments (39 genera and 12 families were found exclusively in these sediments). Nematode genera number (S), estimated genera richness (EG(51)) and heterogeneity (H’(log2)) were significantly lower in iron-enriched sediments than in unaffected sediments. Our results confirm that the local enrichment of deep-sea sediments by metallic and corroding structures (e.g., by ship hulls, containers, scientific equipment) strongly affects the diversity of the small benthic biota at short distances from these sources.
“CORE” a new assay for rapid identification of Klebsiella pneumoniae COlistin REsistant strains by MALDI-TOF MS in positive-ion mode
Authors: Foglietta Gianluca , De Carolis Elena , Mattana Giordana , Onori Manuela , Agosta Marilena , Niccolai Claudia , Di Pilato Vincenzo , Rossolini Gian Maria , Sanguinetti Maurizio , Perno Carlo Federico , Bernaschi Paola
Published: February 2023

Due to the global spread of pan resistant organisms, colistin is actually considered as one of the last resort antibiotics against MDR and XDR bacterial infections. The emergence of colistin resistant strains has been observed worldwide in Gram-negative bacteria, such as Enterobacteriaceae and especially in K. pneumoniae, in association with increased morbidity and mortality. This landscape implies the exploration of novel assays able to target colistin resistant strains rapidly.

In this study, we developed and evaluated a new MALDI-TOF MS assay in positive-ion mode that allows quantitative or qualitative discrimination between colistin susceptible (18) or resistant (32) K. pneumoniae strains in 3 h by using the “Autof MS 1000” mass spectrometer. The proposed assay, if integrated in the diagnostic workflow, may be of help for the antimicrobial stewardship and the control of the spread of K. pneumoniae colistin resistant isolates in hospital settings.
Efficacy and tolerability of oral gastrodin for medication overuse headache (EASTERN): Study protocol for a multicenter randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Kong Fanyi , Buse Dawn C. , Geng Jia , Xu Jingjing , Liu Hanxiang , Ma Shu
Published: February 2023

Background

Prophylactic medication in clinical detoxification programs for the treatment of medication overuse headache is still debated. Gastrodin, a main bioactive constituent of Rhizoma Gastrodiae, has been applied clinically to treat primary headache for more than 30 years in China due to its potential analgesic and anti-migraine mechanisms. However, clinical evidence supporting its routing use in MOH is insufficient. The present study aims to investigate the efficacy and tolerability of oral gastrodin in medication overuse headache.

Methods

A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel, placebo-controlled trial will be performed. A target sample size of 186 patients who fulfill the International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd version (ICHD-3) criteria for MOH will be recruited and screened during a baseline screening period of 28 days before being randomly assigned to either the gastrodin or placebo group at a ratio of 1:1. Enrolled patients will be assessed for each 4 weeks during the 12-weeks double-blind phase and followed up at week 24. The primary endpoint is mean change in monthly headache day frequency. Secondary endpoints will be the proportion of remitted MOH, change in headache pain intensity, headache impact test (HIT-6) score, 50% responder rate, treatment failure, monthly acute medication intake days, and Short Form 36-Item Health Survey (SF-36) score. Tolerability will be assessed by drop-out rates though safety monitoring during treatment.

Discussion

The findings of the present study may help to provide new evidence on gastrodin as a prophylaxis treatment with both efficacy and high tolerability for the treatment of MOH.

Clinical trail registration

Chinese Clinical Trail Registry (ChiCTR2200063719), Protocol Version 1.1, May, 09, 2022.
Case report: A case of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis after SARS-CoV-2 infection in pediatric patients
Authors: Cautilli Francesca , Feleppa Mariavittoria , Valeriani Massimiliano , Papetti Laura , Monte Gabriele , Midulla Fabio , Spalice Alberto
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Since the beginning, there has been enough evidence about the multi-systematic involvement of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Recent observations have revealed that, together with others, typical neurological manifestations are also associated with COVID-19 infection. In the first 2 years, children accounted for a few percent of cases, but with the emergence of the Omicron variant, the number of cases in the pediatric population has increased. It has been described that ~5% of the affected population suffered from severe neurological complications, such as seizure, coma, encephalitis, demyelinating disorders, and aseptic meningitis. Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Typically, it presents in childhood and occurs 1 or 2 weeks after infection or vaccination.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 12-year-old boy who developed ADEM, 10 days after an asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection. Neurological symptoms began with headache, fever, irritability, paraplegia, and loss of sensitivity from the T1 level. The diagnosis of ADEM was confirmed by the typical signs found on brain MRI, whereas spinal cord MRI showed signs of transverse myelitis. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) testing excluded infections and did not reveal oligoclonal antibody bands (anti-MOG-negative and anti-AQP-negative). High-dose steroids (30 mg/kg/day) and IVIG (2 g/kg) were administered to the patient without any clinical improvement. The patient received a cycle of plasma exchange therapy, followed by rituximab infusion, with partial improvement. After 3 months, the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results demonstrated radiological improvement in accordance with the ADEM diagnosis.

Conclusion

This clinical case confirms that SARS-CoV-2 infections are increasingly implicated in severe neurological consequences in both adult and pediatric patients. While the most frequent complications that were reported in children included headache, altered mental status, and encephalopathy, ~5% of the individuals suffered from severe neurological complications, leading to lifelong sequelae. All physicians must be aware of these data and detect neurological signs of severe (or not) complications that require a specific follow-up and treatment.
Delivering acute stroke care in a middle-income country. The Mexican model: “ResISSSTE Cerebro”
Authors: Bonifacio-Delgadillo Dulce María , Castellanos-Pedroza Enrique , Martínez-Guerra Bernardo Alfonso , Sánchez-Martínez Claudia Marisol , Marquez-Romero Juan Manuel
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Founded in 2019, the “ResISSSTE Cerebro” program is the first and only stroke network within the Mexican public health system. One advanced stroke center (ASC) and seven essential stroke centers (ESC) provide acute stroke (AS) care through a modified hub-and-spoke model. This study describes the workflow, metrics, and outcomes in AS obtained during the program's third year of operation.

Materials and methods

Participants were adult beneficiaries of the ISSSTE health system in Mexico City with acute focal neurological deficit within 24 h of symptom onset. Initial evaluation could occur at any facility, but the stroke team at the ASC took all decisions regarding treatment and transfers of patients. Registered variables included demographics, stroke risk factors, AS treatment workflow time points, and clinical outcome measures.

Results

We analyzed data from 236 patients, 104 (44.3%) men with a median age of 71 years. Sixty percent of the patients were initially evaluated at the ESC, and 122 (85.9%) were transferred to the ASC. The median transfer time was 123 min. The most common risk factor was hypertension (73.6%). Stroke subtypes were ischemic (86.0%) and hemorrhagic (14.0%). Median times for onset-to-door, door-to-imaging, door-to-needle, and door-to-groin were: 135.5, 37.0, 76.0, and 151.5 min, respectively. The rate of intravenous thrombolysis was 35%. Large vessel occlusion was present in 63 patients, from whom 44% received endovascular therapy; 71.4% achieved early clinical improvement (median NIHSS reduction of 11 points). Treatment-associated morbimortality was 3.4%.

Conclusion

With the implementation of a modified hub-and-spoke model, this study shows that delivery of AS care in low- and middle-income countries is feasible and achieves good clinical outcomes.
Changes in vinegar quality and microbial dynamics during fermentation using a self-designed drum-type bioreactor
Authors: Wang Wenxiu , Zhang Fan , Dai Xinpeng , Liu Yaqiong , Mu Jianlou , Wang Jie , Ma Qianyun , Sun Jianfeng
Published: February 2023

The bioreactor based on solid-state fermentation technology has been developed for vinegar production, standardization of fermentation process and stabilization of vinegar quality. The microbial community diversity, and volatile compounds of six cultivars of vinegar samples fermented in a self-designed solid-state fermentation bioreactors were investigated using Illumina MiSeq platform and gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) technology. The correlations between the richness and diversity of microbiota and volatile profiles, organic acids, as well as physicochemical indicators were explored by R software with the coplot package. The findings indicated that Acetobacter, norank-c-Cyanobacteria, and Weissella played key roles during fermentation process. Norank-f-Actinopolyporaceae, norank-c-Cyanobacteria, Pediococcus, and Microbacterium had significant correlations with the physicochemical characteristics. The most common bacterial species were associated with a citric acid content, whereas the least number of bacterial species correlated with malic acid content. Findings could be helpful for the bioreactor optimization, and thus reaching the level of pilot scale and industrialization.
Multiple primary lung cancer: Updates of clinical management and genomic features
Authors: Tian He , Bai Guangyu , Yang Zhenlin , Chen Ping , Xu Jiachen , Liu Tiejun , Fan Tao , Wang Bingning , Xiao Chu , Li Chunxiang , Gao Shugeng , He Jie
Published: February 2023

In recent decades, multiple primary lung cancer (MPLC) has been increasingly prevalent in clinical practice. However, many details about MPLC have not been completely settled, such as understanding the driving force, clinical management, pathological mechanisms, and genomic architectures of this disease. From the perspective of diagnosis and treatment, distinguishing MPLC from lung cancer intrapulmonary metastasis (IPM) has been a clinical hotpot for years. Besides, compared to patients with single lung lesion, the treatment for MPLC patients is more individualized, and non-operative therapies, such as ablation and stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR), are prevailing. The emergence of next-generation sequencing has fueled a wave of research about the molecular features of MPLC and advanced the NCCN guidelines. In this review, we generalized the latest updates on MPLC from definition, etiology and epidemiology, clinical management, and genomic updates. We summarized the different perspectives and aimed to offer novel insights into the management of MPLC.
Association of regional anesthesia with oncological outcomes in patients receiving surgery for bladder cancer: A meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Illias Amina M. , Yu Kai-Jie , Wu Shao-Chun , Cata Juan P. , Tsai Yung-fong , Hung Kuo-Chuan
Published: February 2023

Background

This meta-analysis was conducted to compare cancer recurrence and survival rates in patients with bladder cancer receiving surgery under general anesthesia alone (i.e., GA group) or regional anesthesia (RA) with or without GA (i.e., RA ± GA group).

Methods

Literature search on Cochrane library, EMBASE, Google scholar, and Medline databases was performed to identify all relevant studies from inception to April 30, 2022. The primary outcome was cancer recurrence rate, while the secondary outcomes included overall survival rate and cancer-specific survival rate. Subgroup analyses were performed based on study design [(Propensity-score matching (PSM) vs. no-PSM)] and type of surgery [transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) vs. radical cystectomy].

Results

Ten retrospective studies with a total of 13,218 patients (RA ± GA group n=4,884, GA group n=8,334) were included. There was no difference between RA ± GA group and GA group in age, the proportion of males, severe comorbidities, the proportion of patients receiving chemotherapy, and the pathological findings (all p >0.05). Patients in the RA ± GA group had significantly lower rate of bladder cancer recurrence [odds ratio (OR): 0.74, 95%CI: 0.61 to 0.9, p=0.003, I2 = 24%, six studies] compared to those in the GA group. Subgroup analyses based on study design revealed a consistent finding, while the beneficial effect of RA ± GA on reducing cancer recurrence was only significant in patients receiving TURBT (p=0.02), but not in those undergoing radical cystectomy (p=0.16). There were no significant differences in overall survival rate and cancer-specific survival rate between RA ± GA and GA groups.

Conclusions

For patients receiving surgery for bladder cancer, the application of regional anesthesia with or without general anesthesia is associated with significant decrease in cancer recurrence, especially in patients undergoing TURBT for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. Because of the limited number of studies included and potential confounding factors, our results should be interpreted carefully.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42022328134.
Meta-analysis of the efficacy and adverse drug reactions of adrenergic alpha-antagonists in treating children with ureteral calculi
Authors: Sun Kai , Zhang Peizhi , Sun Yanning , Wang Qingliang , Xia Qinghua
Published: February 2023

This meta-analysis investigated the efficacy and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) of three different adrenergic alpha-antagonists during the treatment of pediatric ureteral stones. Studies were retrieved from MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Controlled Trial Registry until January 2022. We identified 7 articles, including six RCTs and one cohort study. 610 children received either adrenergic alpha-antagonists or placebo. The results confirmed that the three different adrenergic alpha-antagonists could significantly increase the ureteral calculi expulsive rate and shorten the ureteral calculi expulsive time, regardless of the size of the stone “<5 mm” or “5–10 mm”. Subgroup analysis suggested that all three adrenergic alpha-antagonists increased the ureteral calculi expulsive rate. Tamsulosin and silodosin also have the effect of shortening ureteral calculi expulsive time, while doxazosin has an insignificant effect on ureteral calculi expulsive time. Besides, tamsulosin and silodosin obviously reduced the number of pain episodes caused by ureteral calculi in children. We analyzed the treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) caused by the treatment of three different adrenergic alpha-antagonists to explore their ADRs. The probability of ADRs was increased after treatment with adrenergic alpha-antagonists. Further subgroup analysis revealed the application of tamsulosin was positively correlated with ADRs in children with ureteral calculi, while the application of doxazosin and silodosin had no statistically significant effect on the probability of TEAEs. In a conclusion, this article systematically analyzed the efficacy and ADRs of three different adrenergic alpha-antagonists, and provided reference and guidance for the application of adrenergic alpha-antagonists to treat children ureteral calculi.
Significance of searching for ganglia in the terminal rectum/fistula of complex anorectal malformations: Related to defecation function
Authors: Feng Wei , Mu Huaqi , Chen Minmin , Zhu Jin , Xiang Chenzhu , Fan Linxiao , Hou Jinping , Die Xiaohong , Wang Yi
Published: February 2023

Background

The need to search for ganglia in the terminal rectum/fistula of complex anorectal malformations (ARMs) remains controversial. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between ganglia absence in the terminal rectum/fistula and defecation function after anoplasty.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients who received anoplasty for treating male imperforate anus with rectobulbar (RB)/rectoprostatic (RP) fistulas at a tertiary pediatric hospital was conducted with registered demographic data, imaging study results, and information on the terminal rectum/fistula specimen (excision extension and pathological findings). According to the pathological findings, patients were divided into Groups 1 (ganglia absence) and 2 (ganglia presence). Furthermore, the postoperative defecation function was evaluated using various rating scale questionnaires. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 22.0.

Results

Of the 62 patients, 18 (29.0%) showed ganglia absence in the terminal rectum/fistula. By analyzing the imaging data, spinal anomalies and spinal cord anomalies were found in 30.6% (19/62) and 56.5% (35/62) of patients, respectively. Baseline information was comparable between Groups 1 and 2 (P > 0.05). For defecation function, there were no significant differences in Kelly scores between the two groups (4.0 ± 0.8 vs. 4.4 ± 1.1, P = 0.177), while Krickenbeck (3.7 ± 1.8 vs. 5.2 ± 1.4) and Rintala (13.7 ± 3.6 vs. 16.0 ± 2.7) scores in Group 1 were significantly lower than those in Group 2 (both P < 0.05). The overall incidence of constipation was 50% (31/62), being higher for Group 1 than Group 2 (77.5% vs. 38.6%, P = 0.002). The area under the curve of ganglia absence for predicting constipation was 0.696, with 77.8% sensitivity and 61.4% specificity.

Conclusion

Ganglia absence in the terminal rectum/fistula of male imperforate anus with RB/RP fistulas is associated with constipation after anoplasty, but it has limited predictive value for postoperative constipation. It is necessary to search for ganglia in the terminal rectum/fistula, both intraoperatively and postoperatively.
GHRH-GH-IGF1 axis in pediatric Down syndrome: A systematic review and mini meta-analysis
Authors: Shaki David , Hershkovitz Eli , Tamam Shai , Bollotin Arkadi , David Odeya , Yalovitsky Guy , Loewenthal Neta , Carmon Lior , Walker Dganit , Haim Alon
Published: February 2023

Objective

To analyze and determine the quality of functioning in different components of GHRH-GH-IGF1 axis in children with Down syndrome (DS).

Design

Systematic review and mini meta-analysis of the literature.

Methods

A search was performed in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and PsycINFO through August 2022. Eligible studies included pediatric patients with DS who had undergone any laboratory evaluation of the GHRH-GH-IGF1 axis. Two reviewers independently screened articles for eligibility. Results of each type of test were weighed together in patients both with and without DS and were pooled using a random effects meta-analysis.

Results

In total, 20 studies assessed the GHRH-GH-IGF1 axis function. A defect in three major components of GHRH-GH-IGF1 axis was found in a significant proportion of pediatric DS patients.

Conclusions

A significant portion of short-stature pathogenesis in children with DS is associated with impaired GHRH-GH-IGF1 axis function.
M2 factor for evaluating fiber lasers from large mode area few-mode fibers
Authors: Tao Rumao , Huang Long , Li Min , Shen Benjian , Feng Xi , Xie Lianghua , Weng Jin , Zhi Dong
Published: February 2023

Evaluating the laser quality accurately is one of the most important and fundamental physical issues for laser sources, and the beam quality of lasers from the large mode area few-mode fibers have been haunted by the presence of high order mode for many years. This paper presents a modification to the M2 factor, which can be used to evaluate the mode content of fiber lasers accurately and efficiently, no matter whether the fiber modes are superposited coherently or incoherently. By mathematical derivation, the origin of the influence of relative phase on the M2 factor has been determined mathematically. A modification to the second moment of the beam intensity profile has been proposed, which eliminates the impact of uncontrollable relative phase on the second moment, and subsequently restores the one-to-one mapping between mode content and M2 factor even for coherent superposition cases. Also presented are the results of numerical simulations, which support the validity of the modified M2 factor to evaluate the mode content of the high power fiber lasers. With modified M2 factor being less than 1.1, the power fraction of LP11 mode content is unique and determined to be less than 3%.
Polarized Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor
Authors: Yang Yanrong , Huang Linhai , Xiao Yawei , Gu Naiting
Published: February 2023

Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor (SHWFS) has been widely used in adaptive optics (AO) systems to detect phase distortion characteristics. In laser communication, target detection, vision optics and other application fields, the performance of SHWFS is affected by bright skylight and scattered light, which restricted the working ability of the AO system severely. Therefore, this paper proposes a new polarized SHWFS (p-SHWFS) based on the principle of polarization imaging, which utilize the difference of state of polarization (SoP) between signal and stray light to improve the image contrast. The p-SHWFS can be composed simply by a micro-lens array and a linear polarization camera. The camera uses four directional polarizing filters at 0°, 135°, 45° and 90° on every four pixels. Thus, the degree of linear polarization (DoLP) and angle of linear polarization (AoLP) for the incident wavefront can be analyzed, and the signal-to-background ratio (SBR) can be improved in some certain depending on the difference of SoP. In this paper, we introduce the basic principle of the p-SHWFS and validate the feasibility and accuracy improvement by numerical simulation and practical experiments. The experimental results show that the p-SHWFS can improve obviously the measurement accuracy under strong stray light when the difference of SoP exists. That may give us some initial reference to reduce the influence of stray light in laser communication, target detection, vision optics and other application fields.
Numerical study on the aerodynamic performance of the three-dimensional wing of a jellyfish-like flyer
Authors: Meng Xueguang , Deng Chengjian , Wang Dingsheng , Jiang Shujie
Published: February 2023

The jellyfish-like flying machine is a new development direction of the future bionic flapping-wing aircraft besides the insect-mimic and bird-mimic micro air vehicles (MAVs). To better understand the underlying fluid mechanisms of the jellyfish-like flyer, we numerically simulated the aerodynamic forces of the three-dimensional flapping wings under different control parameters. The effects of flapping amplitude, vortex wake, up-flight speed, and wing–wing interaction on aerodynamic performance were investigated. The results show that, at hovering, the mean lift rises rapidly at first and then tends to be stable with the increase in flapping amplitude. The vortex wake can improve the lift at large flapping amplitudes, while it reduces the lift at very small flapping amplitudes. With the increase in up-flight speed, the lift decreases. However, the sources of lift reduction are different for different flapping amplitudes. When the two wings flap together and the distance between the wings is small enough, the wing–wing interaction can improve the lift by about 15% compared with that of a single wing, but much higher power is required, resulting in lower efficiency. The results of this study provide new insights into the flight mechanism of the jellyfish-like aircraft and have important guiding significance for the design and optimization of the jellyfish-like flying machine.
High-yielding nitrate transporter cultivars also mitigate methane and nitrous oxide emissions in paddy
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Faseeh , Zhang Yong , Kong Pulin , Wang Yulong , Cao Kaixun , Zhao Limei , Xiao Xin , Fan Xiaorong
Published: February 2023

Development of high yield rice varieties is critical to ensuring global food security. However, the emission of greenhouse gases (GHG) such as Methane (CH4) and Nitrous oxide (N2O) from paddy fields threatens environmental sustainability. In this study, we selected overexpressed high-affinity nitrate transporters (NRT2.3 along with their partner protein NAR2.1) cultivars, which are effective nitrogen use efficient transgenic lines pOsNAR2.1: OsNAR2.1 (Ox2) and p35S:OsNRT2.3b (O8). We used high (270 kg N/ha) and low (90 kg N/ha) nitrogen (N) fertilizers in paddy fields to evaluate morphophysiological traits, including GHG emission. We found that Ox2 and O8 reduced CH4 emissions by 40% and 60%, respectively, compared to their wild type (WT). During growth stages, there was no consistent N2O discharge pattern between WT and transgenics (Ox2, O8) in low and high N application. However, total cumulative N2O in a cropping season reduced in O8 and increased in Ox2 cultivars, compared to WT. Root aerenchyma formation reduced by 30-60% in transgenic lines. Methanogens like mcrA in low and high N were also reduced by up to 50% from rhizosphere of Ox2 and O8. However, the nitrifying bacterial population such as nosZ reduced in both transgenics significantly, but nirK and nirS did not show a consistent variation. The high yield of transgenic rice with limited aerenchyma mitigates the discharge of CH4 and N2O by reducing root exudates that provide substrates for GHG. Our results improve understanding for breeders to serve the purpose of sustainable development.
Psychological impact of COVID-19: A cross-lagged network analysis from the English Longitudinal Study of Aging COVID-19 database
Authors: Ramos-Vera Cristian , García O'Diana Angel , Basauri Miguel Delgado , Calle Dennis Huánuco , Saintila Jacksaint
Published: February 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent health restrictions had an unprecedented impact on mental health, contributing to the emergence and reinforcement of various psychopathological symptoms. This complex interaction needs to be examined especially in a vulnerable population such as older adults.

Objective

In the present study we analyzed network structures of depressive symptoms, anxiety, and loneliness from the English Longitudinal Study of Aging COVID-19 Substudy over two waves (Months of June–July and November–December 2020).

Methods

For this purpose, we use measures of centrality (expected and bridge-expected influence) in addition to the Clique Percolation method to identify overlapping symptoms between communities. We also use directed networks to identify direct effects between variables at the longitudinal level.

Results

UK adults aged >50 participated, Wave 1: 5,797 (54% female) and Wave 2: 6,512 (56% female). Cross-sectional findings indicated that difficulty relaxing, anxious mood, and excessive worry symptoms were the strongest and similar measures of centrality (Expected Influence) in both waves, while depressive mood was the one that allowed interconnection between all networks (bridge expected influence). On the other hand, sadness and difficulty sleeping were symptoms that reflected the highest comorbidity among all variables during the first and second waves, respectively. Finally, at the longitudinal level, we found a clear predictive effect in the direction of the nervousness symptom, which was reinforced by depressive symptoms (difficulties in enjoying life) and loneliness (feeling of being excluded or cut off from others).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that depressive, anxious, and loneliness symptoms were dynamically reinforced as a function of pandemic context in older adults in the UK.
Climate change: Comparing “green” and “polluting” nation-states
Authors: Posocco Lorenzo , McNeill John R.
Published: February 2023

Some nation-states, i.e., Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, repeatedly score the highest in environmental indicators such as the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) and the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI). Their cities win environmental awards; they have well-developed recycling systems; they perform well with biodegradable waste; and their citizens show awareness of environmental problems, protesting publicly and even sueing their governing bodies if they don't do the same. For these and other reasons, recent scholarship defined these countries as “exemplary” green nation-states. The question is, which factors pushed them toward the green transition faster than others? And overall, what stops top polluting countries such as China, the United States and Russia from walking the same path? This article attempts to answer these questions by looking at climate change through a theoretical framework based on theories of nationalism and case studies of green nation-states. It compares three of said top polluting countries, China, the United States, and Russia, with “exemplary” green nation-states, and argues that the pace of greener nation-states rests on (1) a tradition of ecologism and environmentalism rooted in the long run, (2) the lock in of “green nationalism,” a form of nationalism grounded on sustainability, (3) free and effective environmental movements, (4) inclusivity and welfare, and (5) a sense of national pride in environmental achievements. The available evidence seems to suggest that top polluting nation-states lack one or more of these factors.
The effects of upper and lower limb elastic band training on the change of direction, jump, power, strength and repeated sprint ability performance in adolescent female handball players
Authors: Gaamouri Nawel , Hammami Mehrez , Cherni Yosser , Oranchuk Dustin J. , Bragazzi Nicola , Knechtle Beat , Chelly Mohamed Souhaiel , van den Tillaar Roland
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to examine the effects of incorporating 10-week elastic band strength training (EBST) program on change of direction, jumping ability, repeated sprint ability, and both muscular strength and power in adolescent female handball players. Participants aged 15.8 ± 0.2 years were divided by playing position, and players from each position were then randomly assigned between the elastic strength (n = 17) and control (n = 17) groups. The experimental group performed periodized upper and lower-body elastic band strength training twice weekly for ten weeks by substitution of some of their regular physical and game preparation. The control group only performed regular handball training. Two-way analyses of variance (group × time) assessed change of direction (COD) via the modified t-agility test, squat jump, countermovement jump, standing long jump, repeated sprint ability (RSA), 1-RM bench press and half squat, and cycle ergometer force-velocity tests for both upper and lower limbs. Relative to the control group, the experimental group enhanced COD performance [p < 0.001; Cohen's effect size (d) = 1.00]; squat and countermovement jump (p = 0.002, d ≥ 0.83), best, mean, and total RSA scores (all p < 0.001, d = 0.92–1.66), 1-RM bench press (p = 0.02, d = 0.59) and half squat (p = 0.009, d = 0.67), all indices of upper limb force-velocity performance (p ≤ 0.025, d = 0.56–1.66), and 3 of 4 indices of lower limb force-velocity performance (p ≤ 0.004, d = 0.75–0.92). We conclude that additional elastic band training performed twice a week for ten weeks improves measures relevant to handball game performance in adolescent female athletes.
Prospect of LNG as Marine Fuel in Indonesia: An Economic Review for a Case Study of 600 TEU Container Vessel
Authors: Butarbutar Riko , Gurning Raja Oloan Saut , Semin
Published: February 2023

The alternative use of environmentally friendly marine fuel by Indonesian vessel owners complies with IMO regulations. Marine fuels with low carbon and sulfur are alternative fuels to the current fossil fuels used by the shipping industry. Some alternative marine fuels are being used or developed such as LNG, hydrogen, and methanol. LNG is one alternative fuel that is used significantly as a marine fuel in the shipping industry. As one of the LNG producers, Indonesia is still behind in using LNG as an alternative marine fuel. One of the main reasons is the use of conventional marine fuels such as HFO, MDO, MGO and the understanding of LNG as an expensive and high-risk commodity. However, vessel owners face various challenges when selecting alternative fuel, which is associated with price and technology. This study aims to analyze a 600 TEU container vessel by calculating its net present value, the capital recovery factor and life cycle analysis (LCA) to determine whether owners carry out the investment. The result of the economic analysis for the 600 TEU vessel showed that the investment of retrofit for LNG as a marine fuel will be a good choice for owners due to the challenge of capital cost for financing a new vessel.
Review on Biomedical Advances of Hybrid Nanocomposite Biopolymeric Materials
Authors: Alosaimi Abeer M. , Alorabi Randa O. , Katowah Dina F. , Al-Thagafi Zahrah T. , Alsolami Eman S. , Hussein Mahmoud A. , Qutob Mohammad , Rafatullah Mohd
Published: February 2023

Hybrid materials are classified as one of the most highly important topics that have been of great interest to many researchers in recent decades. There are many species that can fall under this category, one of the most important of which contain biopolymeric materials as a matrix and are additionally reinforced by different types of carbon sources. Such materials are characterized by many diverse properties in a variety industrial and applied fields but especially in the field of biomedical applications. The biopolymeric materials that fall under this label are divided into natural biopolymers, which include chitosan, cellulose, and gelatin, and industrial or synthetic polymers, which include polycaprolactone, polyurethane, and conducting polymers of variable chemical structures. Furthermore, there are many types of carbon nanomaterials that are used as enhancers in the chemical synthesis of these materials as reinforcement agents, which include carbon nanotubes, graphene, and fullerene. This research investigates natural biopolymers, which can be composed of carbon materials, and the educational and medical applications that have been developed for them in recent years. These applications include tissue engineering, scaffold bones, and drug delivery systems.