bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why Do Firms Participate in Voluntary Environmental Programs? A Meta-Analysis of the Role of Institutions, Resources, and Program Stringency
Authors: Tashman Peter , Flankova Svetlana , van Essen Marc , Marano Valentina
Published: February 2021

We meta-analyze research on why firms join voluntary environmental programs (VEPs) to assess the impact of program stringency, or the extent to which they have rigorous, enforceable standards on these decisions. Stringency creates trade-offs for firms by affecting programs’ effectiveness, legitimacy, and adoption costs. Most research considers singular programs and lacks cross program variation needed to analyze program stringency’s impact. Our meta-analysis addresses this by sampling 127 studies and 23 VEPs. We begin by identifying common institutional and resource-based drivers of participation in the literature, and then analyze how program stringency moderates their impacts. Our results suggest that strictly governed VEPs encourage participation among highly visible and profitable firms, and discourage it when informal institutional pressures are higher, and firms have prior experience with other VEPs or quality management standards. We demonstrate that VEP stringency has nuanced effects on firm participation based on the institutional and resource-based factors facing them.
The moral responsibility of governments and individuals in the context of the coronavirus pandemic
Authors: Nihlén Fahlquist Jessica
Published: February 2021

Aim:

Not only is the coronavirus pandemic about science and facts, it also raises a number of ethical questions. Some of the most important questions in this context are related to responsibility. First, what is a government’s primary responsibility? Second, how should both the government and individuals consider personal moral responsibility in this context?

Method:

This paper uses conceptual and normative analysis to address responsibility in the context of the pandemic. The paper also refers to reports published by the German Ethics Council, the Malaysian Bioethics Community and the Swedish National Council on Medical Ethics.

Results:

The primary responsibility of governments is to create a balance between individual values and rights, one hand, and the health of the population, on the other. There are good reasons to conceive of individual responsibility as a virtue, having to do with the development of crucial character traits and habits. The responsibility of governments is connected to individual responsibility through the values of trust and solidarity.

Conclusions:

Governments need to communicate clearly (a) how they balance conflicts between collective health and individual rights and values and (b) what the chosen strategy entails in terms of collective and individual responsibility. Success requires attention to ethical values from all involved. Individuals will need to develop new character traits to help manage this pandemic and to prevent new ones. Governments must facilitate the development of such character traits by building trust and solidarity with and among citizens.
Adding “Student Voice” to the Mix: Perception Surveys and State Accountability Systems
Authors: Schneider Jack , Noonan James , White Rachel S. , Gagnon Douglas , Carey Ashley
Published: February 2021

For the past two decades, student perception surveys have become standard tools in data collection efforts. At the state level, however, “student voice” is still used sparingly. In this study, we examine the ways in which including student survey results might alter state accountability determinations. Reconstructing the accountability system in Massachusetts, we draw on a unique set of student survey data, which we add to the state’s formula at a maximally feasible dosage in order to determine new school ratings. As we find, student survey data shift school accountability ratings in small but meaningful ways and appear to enhance functional validity. Student survey results introduce information about school quality that is not captured by typical accountability metrics, correlate moderately with test score growth, and are not predicted by student demographic variables.
Transcatheter Intervention for Coarctation of Aorta: Current Status
Authors: Sinha Sudhir Chandra
Published: February 2021

Coarctation of aorta (CoA) is an important, treatable cause of heart failure in neonates and of secondary hypertension in adolescents and adults. Surgery has remained as the gold standard in neonates but catheter intervention has usurped it in children, adolescents, and adults. Introduction of covered stents has made the intervention safer. Since it usually appears to be a discrete lesion, at first glance, it attracts interventional cardiologists. However, CoA intervention is associated with significant immediate and long-term complications. Thus, it is imperative for the interventionist to understand the minutiae of the intervention, how to perform it correctly, and how to minimize complications. This review aims to provide complete description of intervention in neonates, adolescents, and adults in one place and also to guide interventional cardiologists perform safer intervention especially in subatretic and atretic CoA.
A Novel Lncrna, Lncery, Interacts with Wdr82 to Regulate Erythroid Differentiation By Promoting Globin Gene Transcription
Authors: Yang Shangda , Sun Guohuan , Wu Peng , Kuang Yijin , Chen Cong , Zheng Zhaofeng , Gu Quan , Zhu Caiying , Gou Fanglin , Yang Zining , Zhao Xiangnan , Yang Liu , Lu Shihong , Lihong Shi , Lv Xue , Dong Fang , Shi Lihong , Ng Lai Guang , Liu Jing , Cheng Hui , Cheng Tao
Published: February 2021

Hematopoietic differentiation is controlled by both genetic and epigenetic regulators. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been demonstrated to be important for normal hematopoiesis, but their function in erythropoiesis needs to be further explored. Here, we profiled the transcriptome of 17 murine hematopoietic cell populations by deep sequencing and identified a novel lncRNA, that was highly expressed in erythroid-related progenitors and erythrocytes. For this reason, we named it lncEry. We also identified a novel lncEry isoform, which was the principal transcript and has not been reported before. Furthermore, we found that nearly 90% of lncEry molecules localized to the nucleus. Next, we performed knockdown and knockout assays to study the function of lncEry, and found that lncEry depletion impaired erythroid differentiation. RNA sequencing analysis showed that lncEry depletion decreased the expression of erythrocyte homeostasis or differentiation related genes, including globin genes, thus indicating its important role in regulating erythroid differentiation. Mechanistically, we performed RNA-pulldown assays and found that lncEry could interact with Wdr82, a component of the Set1A histone H3-Lys4 methyltransferase complex. In addition, a series of molecular assays indicated that lncEry could stabilize the localization of Set1A/Wdr82 complex to facilitate H3K4me3 on the promoter region of globin genes and participate in regulating erythropoiesis. These findings identify lncEry as an important player in the transcriptional regulation of globin genes to coordinate erythropoiesis.

Disclosures

No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Patterns and Growth of a Dedicated Pediatric Coagulation Consult Service in a Freestanding Children's Hospital
Authors: Carpenter Shannon L , Bilynsky Eryn , Wideman Dena , D'Agostino Kristina , Amos Lauren E , Sharma Mukta , Silvey Michael
Published: February 2021

Introduction: At our freestanding pediatric hospital, a dedicated inpatient coagulation consult service has existed for 15 years. To our knowledge, this type of service is relatively unique in a pediatric hospital and provides an opportunity to objectively evaluate changes in coagulation consults in this patient population. Over the past decade, the increasing rate of thrombosis in hospitalized pediatric patients has been noted and more attention has been placed on preventing the occurrence of hospital-acquired venous thromboembolism. With concern over this increased incidence, more inpatients have been receiving prophylactic anticoagulation.

Methods: This is a secondary use of existing clinical care data study, involving review of the patients receiving a consult from the inpatient coagulation consult service. Average daily census was documented via a clinical tracking system. Data collection ranged from May 2011 to May 2020. Since 2013, number of distinct new consults (not repeat patients), and indication for consult have also been documented. These data were analyzed for trends in average census number and indication for consult. Additionally, the service requesting the consult is also reported.

Results: From May 2011 to May 2020, the average daily census for the coagulation consult service has increased from 4.5 to 34.4 patients. (Figure 1) The rate of consult request for prophylactic anticoagulation increased from 8 in 2013 to 82 in 2020, while thrombosis and bleeding referrals remained relatively stable. (Figure 2) Since 2013, the service with the most requests for prophylactic anticoagulation over the entire period was orthopedic surgery with 70, followed by the cardiovascular intensive care (31) and medical intensive care (28) units (ICU). There was an increase in the number of prophylactic anticoagulation consults from the ICUs over the course of the study. (Figure 3) In early 2020 a VTE risk stratification was instituted in the CVICU.

Conclusions: In this single institution, retrospective study, we noted an increase in number of consults for the coagulation service overall, and a larger increase in requests for consults for prophylactic anticoagulation. Further studies should be done to determine whether this increase in use of prophylactic anticoagulation exists at other pediatric hospitals and the impact on subsequent VTE development.

Disclosures

Carpenter: CSL Behring: Research Funding; American Thrombosis and Hemostasis Network: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Genentech, Inc.: Honoraria; Kedrion: Honoraria; Novo Nordisk: Honoraria; Shire: Research Funding; Hemostasis & Thrombosis Research Society: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; American Academy of Pediatrics: Other: PREP Heme/Onc editorial board.
Human Orthogonal IL-2/IL-2Rβ As a Tunable Approach to Enhance CD19-Speific CAR-T Cell Antitumor Activity
Authors: Zhang Qian , Hresko Morgan , Hollander Michael Jacob , Picton Lora , Su Leon , Nunez-Cruz Selene , Sockolosky Jonathan T , Garcia K.Christopher , Milone Michael C.
Published: February 2021

Immunotherapy using T cells engineered with a chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) can produce deep and durable control of B-cell malignancies that is associated with the engraftment and persistence of the CAR T cells following adoptive transfer. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is a central T cell cytokine that promotes T cell proliferation and effector function with a potential to enhance CAR T cell immunotherapy; however, the use of recombinant IL-2 to support T cell immunotherapy is limited by the significant toxicity associated with IL-2 infusion. Previous work has demonstrated the feasibility of engineering murine IL-2 and it's receptor to create an orthogonal (ortho) cytokine-receptor pair capable of delivering IL-2's signal without the associated toxicity (Sockolosky JT et al. Science 2018). In order to translate this novel approach to humans, we engineered a human orthogonal IL-2 (ortho-hIL-2) and human orthogonal IL-2Rβ (ortho-hIL-2Rβ) pair based upon similar mutations to those required in the murine system. We show that hoIL-2 induces JAK-STAT signaling and supports proliferation of the IL-2 dependent cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) line, SeAx, and primary human CD8+ primary T cells when hoIL-2Rb is expressed in these cells. HoIL-2 at concentrations 1000-fold higher than wild-type IL-2 failed to induce signaling in the absence of the orthogonal receptor illustrating the high selectivity of ortho-hIL-2 for the ortho-hIL-2Rβ. Using a CD19-specific, 4-1BB-costimulated CAR T cell (CART19), we show that ortho-hIL-2 induced a dose-dependent increase in ortho-hIL-2Rβ CAR-T cell expansion and serum cytokines in vivo by as much as 1000-fold at 2 weeks following adoptive transfer into NSG mice bearing CD19+ Nalm6 leukemia xenografts and daily ortho-hIL-2 treatment. We further demonstrate that hoIL-2 can rescue the anti-leukemic effect of an otherwise suboptimal CAR T cell dose. In addition to augmenting initial CAR T cell engraftment and efficacy, we also show that ortho-hIL-2 administration initiated at the time of leukemic relapse following CAR T cell therapy can rescue an otherwise failed anti-leukemic response. In aggregate, these data demonstrate the ability of the human orthogonal IL-2 cytokine-receptor system to support T cell expansion in vivo and the potential of combining this approach with CAR T cell immunotherapy to augment the anti-tumor efficacy of engineered T cells.

Disclosures

Sockolosky: Synthekine Therapeutics: Current equity holder in private company. Garcia:Synthekine: Current equity holder in private company, Other: founder. Milone:Novartis: Patents & Royalties.
Systems-Level Analysis of the Immune Repertoire in Neutropenia Reveal Arrested NK Cell Differentiation and Exhaustion
Authors: Sohlberg Ebba , Pfefferle Aline , Ask Eivind Heggernes , Tschan-Plessl Astrid , Jacobs Benedikt , Lorenz Suzanne , Meinke Stephan , Hoglund Petter , Sundin Mikael , Karlsson Goran , Palmblad Jan , Malmberg Karl-Johan
Published: February 2021

Neutrophils are innate cells that have been suggested to play a critical role in terminal differentiation of NK cells. Whether this is a direct effect or a consequence of global immune changes with effects on NK cell homeostasis remains unknown. Here, we used high-resolution flow and mass cytometry to examine NK cell repertoires in 64 neutropenic patients and 27 healthy age- and gender-matched controls. A subgroup of neutropenic patients had lower frequencies and absolute numbers of NK cells, yet increased frequencies of CD56bright among NK cells (Figure 1A-C). Moreover, their CD56dim compartment was characterized by a block in differentiation, with a relative lack of NKG2A-CD57+KIR+ NK cells. In line with the differentiation arrest, no expansion of adaptive NK cells could be detected in CMV-seropositive patients from this subgroup. Furthermore, CD56dim NK cells showed increased frequencies of Ki-67+, Tim-3+ and TIGIT+ cells suggestive of activation and exhaustion (Figure 1D). The systemic imprint in the NK cell repertoire was associated with a blunted tumor target cell response with inefficient killing and a lower proportion of degranulating CD56dim cells (Figure 1E). RNA sequencing of the NK cell compartment further revealed that the differentiation arrest was linked to increased expression of transcription factors and genes involved in proliferation and cytokine signaling (Figure 1F). Serum protein profiling of 264 proteins showed upregulation of pathways related to apoptosis and cell turnover, as well as immune regulation and inflammation including higher levels of IL-10, IL-18 and IL-27 in these patients (Figure 1G-H). Notably, the majority of patients with perturbed NK cell compartment exhibited high-grade neutropenia, overall suggesting that the profoundly altered NK cell homeostasis was tightly connected to the severity of their underlying etiology (Figure 1I).

Disclosures

Meinke: XNK Therapeutics AB: Consultancy. Palmblad:Roche Sweden Inc: Speakers Bureau; Chieti Canada Inc: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Malmberg:Vycellix: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Fate Therapeutics: Consultancy, Patents & Royalties.
Addressing the crosstalk issue in imaging using seismic multiple wavefields
Authors: Lu Shaoping , Qiu Lingyun , Li Xiang
Published: February 2021

Surface-related-multiple wavefields constitute redundant information in conventional migration and can often be difficult to attenuate. However, when used for migration, multiple wavefields can improve subsurface illumination. Unfortunately, the process of imaging using multiples involves the management of crosstalk, which largely restricts its application. Crosstalk causes phantom images formed by spurious correlation of unrelated events in a migration process. These events can be unrelated orders of multiples in the source and receiver wavefields; they can also be one event associated with a reflector in the source wavefield and another event generated by a different reflector in the receiver wavefield. We have first examined crosstalk by explicitly investigating its generation mechanisms in a migration process and classifying it into different categories based on causality. Following this analysis, crosstalk can be predicted in a migration process and subtracted in the image domain; however, this method is usually difficult to apply due to the complexity of wavefield separation and adaptive subtraction. Furthermore, we develop different algorithms to attenuate the crosstalk, including a deconvolution imaging condition, a least-squares migration (LSM) method, and an advanced algorithm combining LSM with a deconvolution imaging condition. We evaluate these different strategies with synthetic examples. A deconvolution imaging condition can attenuate some crosstalk, but it is less effective at suppressing strong coherent crosstalk events. However, the LSM method can fundamentally address the crosstalk issue, and this approach is further optimized when combined with a deconvolution imaging condition.
Hydrogeophysical comparison of hillslope critical zone architecture for different geologic substrates
Authors: Parsekian Andrew D. , Grana Dario , Neves Felipe dos Anjos , Pleasants Mark S. , Seyfried Mark , Moravec Bryan G. , Chorover Jon , Moraes Anthony M. , Smeltz Natalie Y. , Westenhoff John H. , Kelleners Thijs
Published: February 2021

The belowground architecture of the critical zone (CZ) consists of soil and rock in various stages of weathering and wetness that acts as a medium for biological growth, mediates chemical reactions, and controls partitioning of hydrologic fluxes. Hydrogeophysical imaging provides unique insights into the geometries and properties of earth materials that are present in the CZ and beyond the reach of direct observation beside sparse wellbores. An improved understanding of CZ architecture can be achieved by leveraging the geophysical measurements of the subsurface. Creating categorical models of the CZ is valuable for driving hydrologic models and comparing belowground architectures between different sites to interpret weathering processes. The CZ architecture is revealed through a novel comparison of hillslopes by applying facies classification in the elastic-electric domain driven by surface-based hydrogeophysical measurements. Three pairs of hillslopes grouped according to common geologic substrates — granite, volcanic extrusive, and glacially altered — are classified by five different hydrofacies classes to reveal the relative wetness and weathering states. The hydrofacies classifications are robust to the choice of initial mean values used in the classification and noncontemporaneous timing of geophysical data acquisition. These results will lead to improved interdisciplinary models of CZ processes at various scales and to an increased ability to predict the hydrologic timing and partitioning. Beyond the hillslope scale, this enhanced capability to compare CZ architecture can also be exploited at the catchment scale with implications for improved understanding of the link between rock weathering, hydrochemical fluxes, and landscape morphology.
Variational inference in Bayesian neural network for well-log prediction
Authors: Feng Runhai , Grana Dario , Balling Niels
Published: February 2021

We have introduced a Bayesian neural network in quantitative log prediction studies with the goal of improving the petrophysical characterization and quantifying the uncertainty of model predictions. Neural network (NN) methods are gaining popularity in the petrophysics and geophysics communities; however, uncertainty quantification in model predictions is often neglected in the available literature, where the prediction is frequently performed in a deterministic setting. Determination of the uncertainty of the petrophysical model requires the estimation of the posterior distribution of the neural parameters that is generally mathematically intractable; for this reason, we adopt a variational approach to approximate the posterior model of the Bayesian network. To represent the uncertainty, we randomly draw samples from the posterior distribution of neural parameters to predict the model variables given the input data, leading to a learned-ensemble predictor. The proposed approach combines the ability of the NN of extracting hidden relations within the data set that physical relations cannot describe and the probabilistic framework for uncertainty quantification. We apply the proposed method to a well-log data set from the Volve Field, offshore Norway, to predict well logs in intervals where the data are incomplete or missing due to operational issues in the drilling procedure. The proposed approach is validated in intervals where the true data are available but not included in the training process. In the proposed application, the correlation coefficient between predictions and true data is greater than 0.9. In terms of accuracy, the results are comparable to those obtained using a traditional NN approach; however, the proposed method also provides a quantification of the uncertainty in the results, which offers additional information on the confidence in the predictions.
Prestack seismic inversion with structural constraints
Authors: Li Dong , Peng Suping , Zhang Rui , Guo Yinling , Lu Yongxu , Cui Xiaoqin
Published: February 2021

Prestack seismic inversion usually suffers from a lower signal-to-noise ratio, which could result in unstable inversion results. The conventional multitrace lateral constrained inversion blurs steeply dipping layers, whereas the simple structural constrained inversion is affected by noise. To solve this issue, an inversion method with multiple constraints is proposed, which include (1) a local smoothing operator is used to suppress the inversion anomalies caused by data noise, (2) a difference operator is used to protect the stratum boundary, and (3) a structural dipping constraint is used to enhance the characterization of the possible dipping stratum. The multiconstraint inversion (MCI) method suppresses the inversion anomalies caused by data noise without blurring the stratum boundary. The effects of different constraints in the inversion process and the influence of noise on the inversion results are analyzed. In MCI, the regularization coefficient of each constraint operator is dynamically changed, thereby controlling the significance of each regularization term in the inversion. The proposed algorithm is tested on synthetic and field data, which demonstrate its effectiveness and improved accuracy on the inversion results.
Growth Hormone Pulses and Liver Gene Expression Are Differentially Regulated by the Circadian Clock Gene Bmal1
Authors: Schoeller Erica L , Tonsfeldt Karen J , Sinkovich McKenna , Shi Rujing , Mellon Pamela L
Published: February 2021

In this study, we found that loss of the circadian clock gene Bmal1 causes disruptions throughout the growth hormone (GH) axis, from hepatic gene expression to production of urinary pheromones and pheromone-dependent behavior. First, we show that Bmal1 knockout (KO) males elicit reduced aggressive responses from wild-type (WT) males and secrete lower levels of major urinary proteins (MUPs); however, we also found that a liver-specific KO of Bmal1 (liver-Bmal1-KO) produces a similar reduction in MUP secretion without a defect in aggressive behavior, indicating that the decrease in elicited aggression arises from another factor. We then shifted our investigation to determine the cause of MUP dysregulation in Bmal1 KO animals. Because the pulse pattern of GH drives sexually dimorphic expression of hepatic genes including MUPs, we examined GH pulsatility. We found that Bmal1 KO males have a female-like pattern of GH release, whereas liver-Bmal1-KO mice are not significantly different from either WT or Bmal1 KO. Since differential patterns of GH release regulate the transcription of many sexually dimorphic genes in the liver, we then examined hepatic gene transcription in Bmal1 KO and liver-Bmal1-KO mice. We found that while some female-predominant genes increase in the Bmal1 KO, there was no decrease in male-predominant genes, and little change in the liver-Bmal1-KO. We also found disrupted serum insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and liver Igf1 messenger RNA in the Bmal1 KO mice, which may underlie the disrupted GH release. Overall, our findings differentiate between GH-pulse–driven and circadian-driven effects on hepatic genes, and the functional consequences of altered GH pulsatility.
Cellular plasticity at the nexus of development and disease
Authors: Spatz Lillian B. , Jin Ramon U. , Mills Jason C.
Published: February 2021

In October 2020, the Keystone Symposia Global Health Series hosted a Keystone eSymposia entitled ‘Tissue Plasticity: Preservation and Alteration of Cellular Identity’. The event synthesized groundbreaking research from unusually diverse fields of study, presented in various formats, including live and virtual talks, panel discussions and interactive e-poster sessions. The meeting focused on cell identity changes and plasticity in multiple tissues, species and developmental contexts, both in homeostasis and during injury. Here, we review the key themes of the meeting: (1) cell-extrinsic drivers of plasticity; (2) epigenomic regulation of cell plasticity; and (3) conserved mechanisms governing plasticity. A salient take-home conclusion was that there may be conserved mechanisms used by cells to execute plasticity, with autodegradative activity (autophagy and lysosomes) playing a crucial initial step in diverse organs and organisms.
A Multimethod Study of Patterns and Motivations of Greenway-Based Physical Activity
Authors: Hughey S. Morgan , Stowe Ellen W. , Trello Sarah , Bornstein Daniel , Brown Kweku , Davis William J. , Kaczynski Andrew T.
Published: February 2021

Greenways are built environment facilities that show promise for recreational and transportation-related physical activity (PA). Combining objective direct observation methodology and individual intercept surveys, this study examined 1) differences in the mode of PA across three urban greenways, 2) associations between mode of PA and demographic characteristics across three urban greenways, and 3) variations in greenway user motivation and features by age, gender, race/ethnicity, and education level. The System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities was used to measure the frequency and PA mode and user demographic characteristics in Charleston, South Carolina (N = 3681). Concurrently, brief intercept surveys captured more in-depth information on greenway use, motivations, and importance of greenway features (n = 148). Logistic regression was used to examine demographic differences in PA mode across greenways. Linear regression was used to examine demographic differences in motivations and features for greenway use. A majority of greenway users were adults (84.3%), male (54.3%), and White (82.2%). Significantly higher biking levels compared with walking/running were observed in two of the three greenways. Males were more likely than females to bike than walk/run (odds ratio = 4.01, 95% confidence interval = 3.39–4.74). Racial/ethnic minority greenway users were significantly less likely to bike than walk/run (odds ratio = 0.41, 95% confidence interval = 0.33–0.52). Females rated “safety and security” and “natural scenery” higher than males, whereas racial/ethnic minority greenway users rated “getting to and from place” higher than White greenway users. This study provides important insight into variations in greenway-based PA and motivations for using these community features. Results suggest significant differences in types of activities and motivations by gender and race/ethnicity, which is critical information for current maintenance of greenways as well as potential improvements to better attract and appeal to diverse populations.
Feasibility of a Latin Dance Program with mHealth for Middle-Aged and Older Latinxs (BAILA TECH)
Authors: Marques Isabela G. , Kitsiou Spyros , Gerber Ben S. , Buchholz Susan W. , Bustamante Eduardo E. , Marquez David X.
Published: February 2021

Latinxs have low levels of leisure-time physical activity. Mobile health (mHealth) interventions incorporating smartphone apps and wearable PA tracking devices represent a promising solution for promoting leisure-time physical activity. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of the BAILA TECH intervention for middle-aged and older Latinxs. A single-group feasibility trial was conducted for 16 wk, with 2-h in-person sessions twice a week. The Fitbit® Charge 2™, its mobile application, and text messages (TM) were added to the BAILAMOS™ Latin dance program. In-person sessions comprised Fitbit instructional sessions, the BAILAMOS™ program, and technology Q&A sessions. Participants wore Fitbits for 19 wk (16 wk of BAILAMOS™ + two baseline and one posttest week) and received TM for the last 12 wk. Feasibility was assessed by recruitment capability (e.g., recruitment rates), acceptability and suitability (e.g., enjoyment), and resources (e.g., monetary requirements). Feasibility metrics were tracked and interviews were conducted, descriptive statistics and themes are presented. Fifty-one middle-aged and older Latinxs were screened, 28 (55%) were eligible, and 20 (39%) started the intervention (female n = 15, M age = 67 yr old, SD = 7.1). All 20 participants wore their wearable PA tracker for 19 wk, and 3 participants (15%) dropped out of the in-person sessions. Participants reported enjoyment of learning and wearing the Fitbit, dancing, and receiving TM. Total intervention costs were $9572, not including personnel costs. A Latin dance program with mHealth components appears feasible for middle-aged and older Latinxs.
Novel Use of Water Immersion in the Management of Exertional Heat Stress
Authors: Maloy Wyatt , Hulsopple Chad
Published: February 2021

Heat-related illness can result in increased morbidity and mortality from excessive or prolonged heat exposure that overcomes the body’s ability to dissipate the heat load and maintain thermal homeostasis. Postexposure treatment of heat illness has been extensively evaluated along with the role of cold water immersion in the treatment of heat illness. Heat stress mitigation and heat adaptation strategies are currently evolving, including water immersion, to mitigate heat stress and induce heat adaptation. Mitigation strategies are critical to occupations that are not always amenable to heat adaptation because of intermittent and sometimes unexpected introduction to extreme heat exposures complicated by personal protective equipment. Heat adaptation is recommended to mitigate heat-related injuries, and various strategies provide athletes and high-risk occupations a way to adapt to unaccustomed environments. Two approaches to heat stress mitigation and adaptation explored in this article are cold and hot water immersion therapies. These strategies have demonstrated promising results with the potential for minimal disruption in training or work-related schedules.
Dissemination of Thinking while Moving in Maths: Implementation Barriers and Facilitators
Authors: Riley Nicholas , Mavilidi Myrto F. , Kennedy Sarah G. , Morgan Philip J. , Lubans David R.
Published: February 2021

Integrating physical activity into the curriculum can reduce the time children spend sedentary and enhance the learning experience, particularly in mathematics where engagement is a real concern. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the dissemination of the Thinking while Moving in Maths (TWM-M) professional learning program guided by the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance framework. During 2016–2018, 21 TWM-M teacher professional learning workshops were delivered across New South Wales, Australia. A total of 482 teachers from 282 elementary schools attended the workshops. A stratified random sample of participants completed either a follow-up survey (n = 18) or were interviewed using a semistructured discussion framework (n = 13). Teachers reported increased student engagement in mathematics when a movement-based pedagogy was used, which had been reported as the main reason for attending the professional learning workshop (Reach). TWM-M had a positive effect on students’ enjoyment and motivation to learn mathematics (Effectiveness). Workshop attendance improved teachers’ skills and confidence to deliver movement-based mathematics (Adoption). TWM-M was implemented through a variety of delivery modes, including whole class lessons outside the classroom, with 5- to 10-min energizer breaks during mathematics lessons inside the classroom (Implementation). Implementation issues and the need for additional resources emerged as barriers to whole school adoption. The TWM-M program had reached students at the class level. However, evidence for whole school adoption and delivery outside the particular stage is limited (Maintenance). The TWM-M program was successfully disseminated in New South Wales elementary schools. Programs designed to increase children’s physical activity and enhance their academic outcomes are likely to be attractive to teachers, if they are designed in partnership with education authorities. Overall, the TWM-M professional learning program was positively received. Novel strategies need to ensure that professional learning delivered off site has effect on the whole school level.
First experience of efficacy and radiation exposure in 320-detector row CT fluoroscopy-guided interventions
Authors: Yamamoto Shota , Matsumoto Tomohiro , Suda Satoshi , Tomita Kosuke , Kamei Shunsuke , Hashida Kazunobu , Imai Yutaka , Endo Kazuyuki , Murakami Katsuki , Hasebe Terumitsu
Published: February 2021

Objective:

We investigated the efficacy and exposure to radiation in 320-detector row computed tomography fluoroscopy-guided (CTF-guided) interventions.

Methods:

We analysed 231 320-detector row CTF-guided interventions (207 patients over 2 years and 6 months) in terms of technical success rates, clinical success rates, complications, scanner settings, overall radiation doses (dose–length product, mGy*cm), patient doses of peri-interventional CT series, and interventional CT (including CTF), as a retrospective cohort study. The relationships between patient radiation dose and interventional factors were assessed using multivariate analysis.

Results:

Overall technical success rate was 98.7% (228/231). The technical success rates of biopsies, drainages, and aspirations were 98.7% (154/156), 98.5% (66/67), and 100% (8/8), respectively. The clinical success rate of biopsies was 93.5% (146/156). All three major complications occurred in chest biopsies. The median total radiation dose was 522.4 (393.4–819.8) mGy*cm. Of the total radiation dose, 87% was applied during the pre- and post-interventional CT series. Post-interventional CT accounted for 24.4% of the total radiation dose. Only 11.4% of the dose was applied by CTF-guided intervention. Multilinear regression demonstrated that male sex, body mass index, drainage, intervention time, and helical scan as post-interventional CT were significantly associated with higher dose.

Conclusion:

The 320-detector row CTF interventions achieved a high success rate. Dose reduction in post-interventional CT provides patient dose reduction without decreasing the technical success rates.

Advances in knowledge:

This is the first study on the relationship between various interventional outcomes and patient exposure to radiation in 320-detector row CTF-guided interventions, suggesting a new perspective on dose reduction.
Approximation Methods for Multiobjective Optimization Problems: A Survey
Authors: Herzel Arne , Ruzika Stefan , Thielen Clemens
Published: February 2021

Algorithms for approximating the nondominated set of multiobjective optimization problems are reviewed. The approaches are categorized into general methods that are applicable under mild assumptions and, thus, to a wide range of problems, and into algorithms that are specifically tailored to structured problems. All in all, this survey covers 52 articles published within the last 41 years, that is, between 1979 and 2020.

Summary of Contribution: In many problems in operations research, several conflicting objective functions have to be optimized simultaneously, and one is interested in finding Pareto optimal solutions. Because of the high complexity of finding Pareto optimal solutions and their usually very large number, however, the exact solution of such multiobjective problems is often very difficult, which motivates the study of approximation algorithms for multiobjective optimization problems. This research area uses techniques and methods from algorithmics and computing in order to efficiently determine approximate solutions to many well-known multiobjective problems from operations research. Even though approximation algorithms for multiobjective optimization problems have been investigated for more than 40 years and more than 50 research articles have been published on this topic, this paper provides the first survey of this important area at the intersection of computing and operations research.
Tree species preference and rehabilitation perspective by local community: Case study in Bondowoso, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Danarto Setyawan Agung , SUGENG BUDIHARTA  , FAUZIAH
Published: February 2021

Abstract. Danarto SA, Budiharta S, Fauziah. 2019. Tree species preference and rehabilitation perspective by local community: Case study in Bondowoso, East Java, Indonesia. Asian J For 3: 54-63. Study of community’s preference on tree species used for rehabilitation programs was conducted in Gubrih sub-watershed, Sampean watershed in Bondowoso District, East Java. The aim of the study was to find out tree species that have ecological values as well as are preferred by local community for rehabilitation program in the region. Questionnaires were distributed to respondents chosen randomly (i.e. to minimize bias) to select tree species which have ecological and/or economic values. Result of the study showed that among 62 species of trees listed in the questionnaire, there were 45 species chosen by the respondents. There were 13 species of trees selected by more than 20% of total of respondent (high preferred), suggesting the potential list of species for rehabilitation programs in the region. Local community in Gubrih Sub-watershed have understood the importance of trees as a source of income as well as a measure to conserve environmental functions. This is strengthened with land-use systems they selected which prefer tree-based land-use system, such as in the form of plantation of timber species and agroforestry over dry land agriculture. The findings of this study suggest that there is opportunity in rehabilitating degraded lands in Sampean watershed using tree species preferred by local community under the land use system of timber plantation or agroforestry. Our study demonstrates that similar strategy of incorporating ecological and socio-economic perspectives could be applied to another regional context to enhance the chance of success of rehabilitation programs.
Review: Floral resources diversity of honeybees in important types of vegetation of Ethiopia
Authors: Addi Admassu , Bareke Tura
Published: February 2021

Abstract. Addi A, Bareke T. 2019. Review: Floral resources diversity of honeybees in important types of vegetation of Ethiopia. Asian J For 3: 64-68. The high biodiversity of Ethiopia is attributed to its wide ranges of altitude and great geo-morphological diversity. This has resulted in the existence of the region has diverse floral resources of which majority of them are honeybee flora. In this paper bee resources identification and reviewing bee forages were made to determine types of bee plants, floral diversity, flowering period and food source offered by the plants. Moreover, pollen analysis of honey from different regions of Ethiopia was analyzed for determination of major and minor honey source plants. Accordingly, over 1500 species of indigenous and exotic of plants belongs to 105 bee plant families were identified. The growth form analysis of bee forage comprising 41.6% herb, 28.7% shrubs, 21.7% trees, and 8% climbers. The majority of bee plant species flowered from September to November and April to May resulting in two major honey flow periods in the country. Melissopalynological analysis of the honey samples indicated that Schefflera abyssinica, Croton macrostachyus, Syzygium guineense, Vernonia amygdalina and Coffea arabica contributed for 80%, 64%, 86%, 77% and 75% of the total pollen count respectively from southwest and southeastern part of the country while Becium grandiflorum, Hypoestes forskaolii, Leucas abyssinica and Acacia spp. an accounting for 71%, 75.1%, 62%, and 70.5%, respectively from northern Ethiopia. On the other hand, Eucalyptus globulus and Guizotia scabra honey were from central Ethiopia, contributing to 94% of the pollen frequency. From this information, Ethiopia has rich bee forage diversity different vegetation types however, further collection and documentation of bee flora are required in unaddressed areas of the country. Thus in situ conservation, by ecological restoration, and raising and planting of seedlings of bee forages should be promoted for sustainable honey production.
Assessment of tree species diversity, composition and structure of Medha Kachhapia National Park, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh
Authors: Uddin Mehraj , Chowdhury Faqrul Islam , Hossain Mohammed Kamal
Published: February 2021

Abstract. Uddin M, Chowdhury FI, Hossain MK. 2020. Assessment of tree species diversity, composition and structure of Medha Kachhapia National Park, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. Asian J For 4: 15-21. Tree species diversity assessment is considered an essential task to design robust conservation action plans of Protected Areas (PAs). Numerous researches have assessed tree diversity of different PAs of Bangladesh but tree diversity of Medha Kachhapia National Park (MKNP) is still unknown due to lack of research initiatives. It hinders forest managers of this PA to plan and implement conservation actions successfully. To this end, the study carried out a systematic sampling to ascertain composition, distribution, and diversity of tree species available at MKNP of Bangladesh. Findings revealed that representation of tree diversity of MKNP was very poor. Only 10 tree species representing 6 families were identified. Besides, MKNP was dominated by different Dipterocarpus spp. especially with Dipterocarpus costatus. Dominance in height and diameter classes and high Important Value Index (133.94) of D. costatus indicated that the tree might possess a suitable habitat in MKNP to maintain optimum dispersal, development, and growth. However, recent plantation activities with exotic Acacia auriculiformis and intensified human-induced disturbances might hamper its habitat. Thus, to conserve the habitat of D. costatus and remaining forest resources of MKNP, reforestation efforts should be shifted from exotic to native tree species, and community anthropogenic disturbances should be minimized.
Thinning scenarios to reconcile biodiversity conservation and socio-economic co-benefits in protected forest of Vietnam: Effects on habitat value and timber yield
Authors: Segalina Gianluca , CUONG NGUYEN DANG  , ROSARIO SIERRA-DE-GRADO
Published: February 2021

Abstract. Segalina F, Dang CN, Grado RSD. 2020. Thinning scenarios to reconcile biodiversity conservation and socio-economic co-benefits in protected forest of Vietnam: effects on habitat value and timber yield. Asian J For 4: 22-35. Forest protection policy since the 1990s in Vietnam has led to an overall increase in forest cover, but has also adversely impacted the livelihoods of local populations and has displaced deforestation to neighboring countries. As such, it is necessary to explore strategies to achieve sustainable utilization of tropical forests in a way that is compatible with the preservation of biodiversity. One of which is by selective thinning. This study aimed to analyze the habitat and economic value of the trees in a forest block, then comparing the effects of four thinning scenarios on profit and habitat value. We simulated four thinning scenarios and assessed their effects on biodiversity and economic value. The scenarios were defined according to two criteria: tree dominance and tree habitat value. The study took place in a one-hectare plot of marteloscope located in a naturally regenerated mixed forest enriched with native tree species. The habitat value, evaluated by tree-related microhabitats, was used as a proxy for biodiversity. In our study, as many 58 different tree species were found within the marteloscope. Co-dominant trees with a higher diameter at breast height yielded the highest average habitat value, which coincides weakly with findings in temperate forests. In our study, the biodiversity conservation criterion had only a marginal effect on economic benefit. Both results together show that a meeting point between profitability and biodiversity conservation is possible.
New Forest Code effects over smallholder’s intention to trade non-timber forest products
Authors: Brites Alice Dantas
Published: February 2021

Abstract. Brites AD. 2020. New Forest Code effects over smallholder’s intention to trade non-timber forest products. Asian J For 21: 41-45. The Brazilian new Forest Code (NFC) allows the sustainable economic use of one of its main mechanisms for native vegetation protection: the Legal Reserves. Smallholders' intention to trade non-timber forest products (NTFP) from such areas was accessed. Data were collected through 350 in-person surveys in two municipalities from Bahia, Brazil. Outcomes showed that more than half of the respondents do not intend to trade NTFP from their Legal Reserve areas and, the lack of knowledge about the process to obtain government permission for the economic use of these areas, was the main reason gave to justify it. Further, higher household incomes showed a negative correlation with the intention. Incentives from public or private policies and dissemination about the steps needed to obtain permission for Legal Reserve’s sustainable use are needed for engaging smallholders in NTFP trade. With these incentives, it would be possible to increase the NFC potential for adding economic value to the protected native vegetation and for linking conservation with the economic development of rural areas inhabitants. Thus, these outcomes add up to previous findings of the benefits of NTFP trade, and in terms of practice and policy, they can help in the development of environmental policies that incentivize the NTFP trade, contributing to increase landholders’ incomes and to the NFC compliance.