bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progress Towards Extended Cycle Life Si-based Anodes: Investigation of Fluorinated Local High Concentration Electrolytes
Authors: Lutz Diana M. , McCarthy Alison H. , King Steven T. , Singh Gurpreet , Stackhouse Chavis A. , Wang Lei , Quilty Calvin D. , Bernardez Edelmy Marin , Tallman Killian R. , Tong Xiao , Bai Jianming , Zhong Hui , Takeuchi Kenneth J. , Takeuchi Esther S. , Marschilok Amy C. , Bock David C.
Published: August 2022

Silicon (Si) anodes are promising candidates for Li-ion batteries due to their high specific capacity and low operating potential. Implementation has been challenged by the significant Si volume changes during (de)lithiation and associated growth/regrowth of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI). In this report, fluorinated local high concentration electrolytes (FLHCEs) were designed such that each component of the electrolyte (solvent, salt, diluent) is fluorinated to modify the chemistry and stabilize the SEI of high (30%) silicon content anodes. FLHCEs were formulated to probe the electrolyte salt concentration and ratio of the fluorinated carbonate solvents to a hydrofluoroether diluent. Higher salt concentrations led to higher viscosities, conductivities, and contact angles on polyethylene separators. Electrochemical cycling of Si-graphite/NMC622 pouch cells using the FLHCEs delivered up to 67% capacity retention after 100 cycles at a C/3 rate. Post-cycling X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses of the Si-graphite anodes indicated the FLHCEs formed a LiF rich solid electrolyte interphase (SEI). The findings show that the fluorinated local high concentration electrolytes contribute to stabilizing the Si-graphite electrode over extended cycling.
Study on Response of Regular RC Space Frames Subjected to Equivalent Static Blast Load
Authors: Priyatham B. P. R. V. S. , Chaitanya D. V. S. R. K. , Eshete Girma
Published: August 2022

In this paper, the response of regular concrete space frames subjected to gravity and blast loads for a six-storey building of 18 m high for a charge weight of 100 kg TNT at a 40 m range is studied. The type of blast chosen is a surface blast. Five different types of frames, skeleton frame (SFR), skeleton frame with the stiffness of slab (SFRS), skeleton frame with the stiffness of slab and 230 mm thick infill walls (SFRSWs 1), skeleton frame with the stiffness of slab and 150 mm thick infill walls (SFRSWs 2), and skeleton frame with the stiffness of slab and 115 mm thick infill walls (SFRSWs 3) were modelled and analyzed using STAAD Pro by converting the peak reflected blast pressure into equivalent static pressure by using the dynamic load factor. As the storey level increases the lateral displacements, shear force, and bending moment decrease due to a decrease in the impact of the blast at higher stories. The incorporation of infill walls in SFRSW1, SFRSW2, and SFRSW3 type frames shows a significant reduction in the lateral displacements due to the increase of stiffness when compared with SFR type frames.
Analysis of Deep Foundation Pit Pile-Anchor Supporting System Based on FLAC3D
Authors: Sun Yongshuai , Li Zhiming
Published: August 2022

Relying on a deep foundation pit project in Beijing, using FLAC3D three-dimensional finite-difference software simulation combined with displacement monitoring data verification method, the deep foundation pit excavation and three-pile and two-anchor rod support system in anhydrous sand pebble stratum are systematically analyzed, and summed up the variation law of formation stress, internal force of soil nail, axial force of bolt, stress and displacement of pile in the process of excavation and support of deep foundation pit. The results show that during the excavation of the foundation pit, the maximum horizontal displacement of the sidewall is not at the top of the pile and the top of the slope but at a certain distance below the top of the pile. The axial force of the anchor rod is unevenly distributed along the length direction, the axial force of the free section is equal, the axial force of the anchoring section decreases in turn, and the prestress of the anchor rod spreads to the anchoring section after tensioning and locking. The soil-nailed wall is a passive force-bearing system, the force is small during the excavation and support process, and the axial force distribution along the length direction is large in the middle and small at the two ends. By analyzing the variation law of stress and deformation, the timeliness of the data in the construction process is improved, and an effective and reasonable case reference is provided for the informatization construction of simulated relevant working conditions.
Magnetic Resonance Images, Pathological Features of Thrombus, and Expression of NLRP Inflammasome in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Wang Xiaoqin , Kou Wenhui , Kong Weidan , Ma Shujing , Xue Qian , Zou Yuan , Song Aixia
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate imaging features of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), pathological features of thrombus, and expression of nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain‐like receptors protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Their relationship with the prognosis of patients was also explored. Sixty patients with AIS admitted to the hospital were selected as the observation group, and 20 healthy objects were in the control group. The shape of the thrombus was observed by MRI, pathological features of the thrombus were observed under hematoxylin‐eosin (HE) staining, and the levels of NLRP3 inflammasome and inflammatory factors in serum were detected. The MRI‐T2 weighted imaging (T2WI) signal ratio and plaque enhancement rate in the observation group were higher than those in the control group significantly (P < 0.05). In the observation group, the red/mixed thrombus in 6–12 h and 24 h were also much higher than that in 6 h (P < 0.05). The levels of NLRP3, interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), interleukin‐18 (IL‐18), and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) in the observation group were higher than those in the control group in 6 h, 6–12 h, and 24 h (P < 0.05), and those reached the highest levels in 24 h. The ratio of fibrins/platelets in the cardiogenic thrombus reached (63.8 ± 15.6) %, which was significantly higher than that in the large‐artery atherosclerotic thrombus (49.5 ± 14.2) %, P < 0.05. The ratio of red blood cells (RBCs) in the large atherosclerotic thrombus was (30.7 ± 14.3) %, considerably lower than (42.9 ± 15.2) %, P < 0.05. The prognosis of patients with the fibrin/platelet‐rich thrombus was highly lower than that with the RBC‐rich thrombus (P < 0.05). The levels with poor prognosis were higher than those with good prognosis (P < 0.05). MRI could be used to assist in the assessment of brain conditions in patients with AIS. NLRP3 inflammasome was involved in the inflammatory response of AIS and can be used for predicting the poor prognosis, having a certain clinical application value. In addition, different types of thrombi also laid a certain impact on prognosis.
Traffic Optimization Model Based on Regional Road Network Traffic Diversion Technology and Internet of Things
Authors: Ma Fang
Published: August 2022

Today’s traffic control system is developing in a more intelligent direction. The progress of electronic technology has created a traffic control and management system using a variety of control methods. The development of computers creates a more intelligent traffic optimization model for optimizing network traffic. In the limited road space, traffic control research will focus on maximizing the use of existing traffic management equipment to improve vehicle circulation efficiency and avoid congestion. In this context, combined with the temporal and spatial characteristics of traffic congestion, this study investigates the storage capacity of existing road space and seeks the optimal control method for local regional road network congestion. For the technical problems of traffic diversion in the existing two-phase control method and the queuing order in the adjacent lanes in the four-phase control method, the optimal control method is proposed, which solves the technical problems of traffic control and the phenomenon of “queuing injustice” in the adjacent lanes in one direction. The safety degree and traffic efficiency of vehicle operation are improved. The traffic flow from the same entrance to the main intersection forms a signal phase while slowing down or blocking these traffic flows can effectively improve traffic safety and traffic efficiency. Combined with the development of traditional traffic control system, this study introduces the development status of Internet of things technology and puts forward an intelligent traffic control system based on Internet of things technology. Real-time vehicle traffic information is sent to the Lora gateway through Lora wireless network, which is responsible for data transmission and protocol conversion.
Numerical Assessment on Unloading Disturbance and Gas Extraction in Remote Distance Protective Layer Mining
Authors: Yuan Zhigang , Jiang Zehua , Li Shuqing , Zhao Jintao , Huang Fei
Published: August 2022

Protective layer mining could not only significantly alter geostress but also increase the permeability of protected layer, which is beneficial for the coal gas extraction rate and ensures coal mining safety. However, due to unique geologic conditions, remote distance protective layer mining has its own characteristics. To investigate characteristic changes caused by remote distance protective layer mining, a suitable mathematical model that considered disturbance of unloading mining and solid-gas coupling effects during gas extraction was developed. The established mathematical model was implemented by combining FLAC3D and COMSOL programs to study characteristic changes during remote distance protective layer mining of Chajiaotan coal mine. Numerical simulation results of unloading disturbance mining indicated that the protected layer would experience a process of stress loading, stress unloading, stress recovery, and stress stability as the working face of protective layer advanced; unloading disturbance has a greater influence on coal permeability than gas pressure; gas extraction measure should be further adopted to decrease gas pressure. Numerical comparisons of gas pressure distribution in the original protected layer and unloading protected layer revealed that gas extraction after unloading disturbance can reduce gas pressure more effectively, and appropriate borehole spacings in the fully pressure-relief and nonfully pressure-relief zones are 30 m and 5 m, respectively. The layout of field boreholes for gas extraction was designed according to numerical results. The results of site investigation showed that numerical simulation results of relative expansion deformation and gas extraction radii agree well with the results of site observation, demonstrating reliability of the mathematical model and its implementation. The proposed mathematical model is promising for assessing unloading disturbance and gas extraction in remote distance protective layer mining.
Application Research on Face Image Evaluation Algorithm of Deep Learning Mobile Terminal for Student Check-In Management
Authors: Tan Yuanyuan
Published: August 2022

With the increase in the number of data, the traditional shallow image features cannot meet the needs of image representation. As an important means of image research, deep learning network has been paid attention to. In the field of face image evaluation, deep learning algorithm has been introduced, and the recognition technology has gradually matured. Based on this, this paper studies the application of face image evaluation algorithm of deep learning mobile terminal for student check-in management. A face image detection model for student check-in management is constructed, and a deep learning network is used to realize face detection. A face detection algorithm based on candidate region joint deep learning network is designed, and a face key point detection method based on cascaded convolution network is proposed. Aiming at the low efficiency of face recognition and detection, the existing loss function is optimized, the extraction algorithm of face binary features is proposed, and experiments are designed to analyze the performance of the algorithm. The simulation results show that the face detection based on the improved deep learning network can shorten the retrieval time and improve the accuracy of face image classification.
Energy Management System and Control Strategy of Intelligent Connected New Energy Vehicle in Line with the Dual-Carbon Strategy
Authors: Tan Jiaqi , Zhang Yunyi , Zhao Yanjie , Zhang Fangyang
Published: August 2022

This thesis studies the development of the energy management system and control strategy of intelligent connected new energy vehicles and discusses the core techniques of the energy management system and control strategy of the vehicles. The energy management control strategy holds the key for the development of the new vehicles. It is designed to use its energy-saving principles and technologies to give full play to the energy-saving potential of the design scheme, thus optimizing the energy efficiency of the entire vehicle while meeting the driving needs of vehicles according to the performance characteristics of key components and the driving conditions of the vehicle. This thesis not only analyzes the V2X standards to be met in the application of ICV technology and briefly describes the CD/CS strategy and Blended strategy of plug-in hybrid vehicles and the energy management control strategy based on rules and optimization but also studies the control and strategy of information management system in practical circumstances.
Overweight and Its Associated Factors among Women of Reproductive Age in Dire Dawa, Eastern Ethiopia, 2021: Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Omer Ismael , Derese Tariku , Sintayehu Yitagesu
Published: August 2022

Background. Overweight in women of reproductive age is a major public health concern in developing countries because of overconsumption of low-quality food. Currently, being overweight is a major health concern worldwide. It exposes humans to various health problems. In Ethiopia, despite the trend indicated increasing in overweight, priority is given for undernutrition. In Dire Dawa, there is scarce evidence regarding reproductive age overweight. Therefore, this study is designed to assess the prevalence of overweight and its associated factors among women of reproductive age in eastern Ethiopia. Methods. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May 15 to June 15, 2021, in Dire Dawa, Eastern Ethiopia; a multi-stage systematic sampling technique was used to select 559 women aged 15–49 years. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured pretested questionnaire. Ninety-five percent CI was used to identify the factors associated with overweight while controlling for all possible confounders using multivariable logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at a P-value of 0.05. Results. The results of this study revealed that the prevalence of overweight was 63.1% (95% CI: 59.0, 67.2). Overweight was significantly associated with weekly discretionary calories (AOR = 3.964, 95% CI (1.131, 13.894)), contraceptive use (AOR = 2.838, 95% CI (1.443, 5.580)), and monthly family income (AOR = 3.916, 95% CI (1.352, 11.340)). Conclusion. Overweight among women of reproductive age was high in Dire Dawa city. Discretionary calories per week, family monthly income, and contraceptive use were significantly associated with overweight. Developing and implementing community-based culturally sensitive, feasible, and potentially high-impact intervention to address the modifiable risk factors among women of reproductive age is critical.
Research on the Prediction Model of Mine Subsidence Based on Object-Oriented and Probability Integration Method
Authors: Gu Zhongyuan , Zhao Yanlin , Gao Rugao , Wu Lewen
Published: August 2022

The movement of rock formations caused by mining eventually leads to the mining subsidence damage of the surface. In order to accurately and efficiently predict the surface subsidence caused by mining, an object-oriented method combined with the classical probability integration method is introduced in this paper, and an object-oriented probability integration prediction model framework is established. MATLAB2019 is used to develop the application program of the prediction model, the reliability of the prediction model is tested by engineering cases, and the main influencing factors of mining subsidence are analyzed at the same time. The results show that the predicted results of the model are basically consistent with the case. The prediction model developed in this paper using the object-oriented method combined with the probability integration method is reliable. It is feasible to apply the object-oriented method to mining subsidence prediction.
Artificial Intelligence Algorithm‐Based MRI in the Diagnosis of Complications after Renal Transplantation
Authors: Liu Hang , Ren Liang , Fan Bohan , Wang Wei , Hu Xiaopeng , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: August 2022

This study was to explore the diagnostic value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) optimized by residual segmentation attention dual channel network (DRSA‐U‐Net) in the diagnosis of complications after renal transplantation and to provide a more effective examination method for clinic. 89 patients with renal transplantation were selected retrospectively, and all underwent MRI. The patients were divided into control group (conventional MRI image diagnosis) and observation group (MRI image diagnosis based on DRSA‐U‐Net). The accuracy of MRI images in the two groups was evaluated according to the comprehensive diagnostic results. The root mean square error (RMSE) and peak signal‐to‐noise ratio (PSNR) of DRSA‐U‐Net on T1WI and T2WI sequences were better than those of U‐Net and dense U‐Net (P < 0.05); comprehensive examination showed that 39 patients had obstruction between ureter and bladder anastomosis, 13 cases had rejection, 10 cases had perirenal hematoma, 5 cases had renal infarction, and 22 cases had no complications; the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and consistency of the observation group were higher than those of the control group (P < 0.05). In the control group, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy in the diagnosis of complications after renal transplantation were 66.5%, 84.1%, and 78.32%, respectively; in the observation group, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy in the diagnosis were 67.8%, 86.7%, and 80.6%, respectively. DRSA‐U‐Net denoising algorithm can clearly display the information of MRI images on the kidney, ureter, and surrounding tissues, improve its diagnostic accuracy in complications after renal transplantation, and has good clinical application value.
Fitted Parameter Exponential Spline Method for Singularly Perturbed Delay Differential Equations with a Large Delay
Authors: Prasad E. Siva , Omkar R. , Phaneendra Kolloju
Published: August 2022

In this paper, we present a new computational method based on an exponential spline for solving a class of delay differential equations with a negative shift in the differentiated term. When the shift parameter is

O

ε

, the proposed method works well and also controls the oscillations in the solution’s layer region. To accomplish this, we included a parameter in the proposed numerical scheme that is based on a special type of mesh, and the parameter is evaluated using the theory of singular perturbation. Maximum absolute errors and convergences of numerical solutions are tabulated to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed computational method and to support the convergence analysis of the presented scheme.
Joubert Syndrome with a Rare Ocular Phenotype: Coloboma with Retrobulbar Cysts – A Case Report
Authors: Chettiankandi Salam , Khan Gazala Afreen , Khan Hayat Ahmad
Published: August 2022

Joubert syndrome (JS) is a rare, autosomal recessive, genetic syndrome that derives from the defects in a sensory organelle, the primary cilia. It is a multiorgan disorder affecting the brain, kidneys, liver, and eyes. The most common presenting feature in the newborn period is hypotonia, abnormal eye movements, irregular breathing pattern, characterized by episodic hyperpnea and apnea, later on, ataxia, and developmental retardation. Besides, a range of highly variable, systemic and ocular features can be present. We report a case of 2-month-old female infant, the product of a consanguineous marriage, with a sibling affected by JS, presenting with intermittent hyperpnea, apnea, facial dysmorphism, strabismus, oculomotor apraxia, proptosis, retinal dystrophy, chorioretinal coloboma, and large retrobulbar cysts communicating with the coloboma. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed the characteristic neuroradiologic finding, the “molar tooth sign.” The child does not fix or follow the light, and the visual prognosis with all the ocular features of the syndrome present is extremely poor. In addition to adding to the diversity of ocular phenotypes, this case reiterates the importance of identifying the syndrome, understanding the varied ocular phenotypic presentations, need for further research on causative genes, prenatal diagnosis in affected families, interventions, and adequate genetic counseling.
Intravitreal r-tPA Injection and Pneumatic Displacement for Submacular Retinal Hemorrhage: A Case Series
Authors: Confalonieri Filippo , Stene-Johansen Ingar , Lumi Xhevat , Petrovski Goran
Published: August 2022

We describe the results of very early pars plana vitrectomy, subretinal r-tPA, and gas tamponade in patients with subretinal macular hemorrhage secondary to neovascular age-related macular degeneration. The patients ended up with a favorable functional recovery. We conclude that very early treatment might lead to a good functional prognosis.
Representaciones de la paternidad para universitarias/os sin hijas/os de Valdivia, Chile
Authors: Mardones-Leiva Karen
Published: August 2022

(analítico)La corresponsabilidad de los hombres en el trabajo de cuidados es una temática relevante en los estudios feministas y de masculinidades, pues una paternidad activa contribuye a la igualdad de género. El objetivo del estudio fue describir las representaciones sobre la paternidad entre estudiantes universitarias/os. La metodología fue cualitativa, con entrevistas semiestructuradas a nueve hombres y nueve mujeres de diferentes carreras. Entre los principales resultados están que la paternidad aún se encuentra en un proceso de cambio sociocultural de representaciones relacionadas con la reproducción y el vínculo con las/os hijas/os. Permanecen representaciones que relevan la proveeduría económica mixturándose con la creciente demanda de cercanía emocional; y la trascendencia al procrear se combina con cuestionamientos sobre la paternidad como eje de la identidad masculina y del proyecto de vida de hombres.
Palabras clave: Estudios de género; diferencias de género; hombres; masculinidad; identidad masculina; juventud.
Las formas del juvenicidio en México
Authors: Becerra-Romero América Tonantzin
Published: August 2022

(analítico)Se presentan los resultados de una investigación cualitativa y descriptiva sobre las formas en que se desarrolla el juvenicidio en México, considerando que puede presentarse como masacre o de manera sutil y rutinaria. El trabajo implicó el análisis de noticias de eluniversal.com.mx y lajornada.com.mx donde los jóvenes aparecen como actores centrales, publicadas del 1 de septiembre al 30 de noviembre de 2020. La teoría fundamentada y el análisis de contenidos permitieron observar que el juvenicidio se desarrolla mediante violencias y muerte cotidiana, genocidios de Estado y con la precarización de la vida de los jóvenes y su tránsito a zonas de riesgo. Asimismo, que el juvenicidio se articula con movimientos de resistencia y de lucha por la libertad y la vida de la juventud.
Palabras clave:  Jóvenes; violencias; muerte; pobreza; criminalidad; resistencias; noticias.
Trending Cardiac Biomarkers During Pregnancy in Women With Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Chang Soohyun A. , Khakh Parm , Janzen Mikyla , Lee Terry , Kiess Marla , Rychel Valerie , Grewal Jasmine
Published: August 2022

Background:

Clinical utility of cardiac biomarker testing during pregnancy in women with preexisting cardiac disease is not well known. We studied the levels and temporal trends of NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide) and hs-cTnI (high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I) throughout pregnancy in women with preexisting cardiac disease and sought to assess the association between NT-proBNP and hs-cTnI and pregnancy outcomes.

Methods:

Three hundred seven pregnant women with preexisting cardiac disease were prospectively recruited. Mixed-effects linear regression analysis was used to compare the NT-proBNP and hs-cTnI levels between time periods and subgroups. Logistic regression analysis adjusted for maternal age and CARPREG II (Cardiac Disease in Pregnancy) risk score assessed the association between NT-proBNP levels and adverse events.

Results:

Geometric mean NT-proBNP (95% CI) was stable through pregnancy with a transient significant increase with labor and delivery (101.4 pg/mL [87.1–118.1], 90.2 pg/mL [78.5–103.6], 153.6 pg/mL [126.8–186.1], and 112.2 pg/mL [94.2–133.7] for first/second trimester, third trimester, labor/delivery and postpartum, respectively). We observed a statistically significant difference in the NT-proBNP between women with preserved versus decreased systemic ventricular function, structurally normal versus abnormal heart, modified World Health Organization class 1, 2 versus modified World Health Organization class 3, 4 and no congenital heart disease versus congenital heart disease. Compared to those without events, median (interquartile range) NT-proBNP levels were significantly higher in those who had heart failure (204 pg/mL [51–450] versus 55 pg/mL [31–97];
P
=0.001) and preeclampsia (98 pg/mL [40–319] versus 55 pg/mL [31–99];
P
=0.027). NT-proBNP, adjusted for age and CARPREG II risk score, was significantly associated with combined heart failure and preeclampsia (adjusted odds ratio, 2.14 [95% CI, 1.48–3.10] per log NT-proBNP increase;
P
<0.001). NT-proBNP <200 pg/mL had a specificity of 91% and negative predictive value of 95% in predicting combined heart failure and preeclampsia.

Conclusions:

NT-proBNP remains steady over the course of pregnancy with a transient increase during labor and delivery with higher levels in subgroups of stable cardiac patients. NT-proBNP level of 200 pg/mL can be used in the diagnosis of heart failure/preeclampsia in the pregnant cardiac population.
Alcohol Intake in Patients With Cardiomyopathy and Heart Failure: Consensus and Controversy
Authors: Andersson Charlotte , Schou Morten , Gustafsson Finn , Torp-Pedersen Christian
Published: August 2022

Alcohol is often cited to be a common cause of cardiomyopathy and heart failure. However, in most available population-based studies, a modest-to-moderate alcohol consumption has been associated with favorable effects on the cardiovascular system, including a lowered risk of heart failure, compared with no alcohol consumption. Available genetic epidemiological data have not supported a causal association between alcohol consumption and heart failure risk, suggesting that alcohol may not be a common cause of heart failure in the community. Data linking alcohol intake with cardiomyopathy risk are sparse, and the concept of alcoholic cardiomyopathy stems mainly from case series of selected patients with dilated cardiomyopathy, where a large proportion reported a history of excessive alcohol intake. This state-of-the-art paper addresses the current knowledge of the epidemiology of alcoholic cardiomyopathy and the role of alcohol intake in patients with non–alcohol-related heart failure. It also offers directions to future research in the area. The review questions the validity of current clinical teaching in the area. It is not well known how much alcohol is needed to cause disease, and the epidemiological pathways linking alcohol consumption to cardiomyopathy and heart failure are not well understood. Until more evidence becomes available, caution is warranted before labeling patients as having alcoholic cardiomyopathy due to a risk of neglecting other contributors, such as genetic causes of cardiomyopathy. In non–alcohol-related heart failure, it is unknown whether total abstinence is improving outcomes (compared with moderate drinking). Ideally, randomized clinical trials are needed to answer this question.
Impact of dietary protein content on growth of the white-clawed crayfish Austropotamobius pallipes (Lereboullet, 1858) (Decapoda, Astacidae) in captive rearing for conservation
Authors: Cartwright Allison , Rice Andrew R. , Dooley James S. G. , Smyth John , Arnscheidt Joerg
Published: August 2022

The white-clawed crayfish, Austropotamobius pallipes is endangered throughout its entire biogeographic range in Europe due to infection with Aphanomyces astaci (crayfish plague) and habitat deterioration. Ex situ propagation is of increasing importance to safeguard genetic resources and enable restocking measures after the pathogen’s disappearance. This study aimed to quantify the impact of crude protein content on growth response and survival of white-clawed crayfish as optimal growth efficiency of white-clawed crayfish captive rearing has remained largely unexplored. Three separate 80 day feeding trials were conducted: juvenile monosex and juvenile mixed sex crayfish fed medium and high protein diets, and mixed sex adult crayfish fed low and high protein diets. Survival, weight gain and carapace length gain were measured bi-weekly during the trials. Growth response as the relative gain in cephalothorax length in juvenile mixed sex assemblages was significantly higher for the medium protein diet (Mdn = 19.4) than for the high protein diet (Mdn = 15.2, , ) with an average carapace length increase of 18.3% compared to 16.1% for the medium and high protein diet, respectively. However, there was no significant difference in the relative weight gain of juvenile mixed sex assemblages. All data for weight gain and carapace length gain for the juvenile monosex assemblages and adult mixed sex assemblages were not significant in response to diets. Thus, there was no obvious advantage of a high protein diet in the captive rearing of A. pallipes and in the case of the juvenile mixed sex assemblage the higher protein content can reduce growth in terms of size.
Cyst size variability in invasive American Artemia franciscana Kellogg, 1906 (Branchiopoda, Anostraca) in Asia: a commercial approach
Authors: Wu Xiao-Fang , Shen Chun-Yang , Fu Chun-Zheng , Yang Ning , Wang Pei-Zheng , Eimanifar Amin , Asem Alireza
Published: August 2022

Artemia is the most common live food that is used in aquaculture worldwide. This study reports on biometrical variation in the cysts of the introduced, originally American Artemia franciscana from 24 non-native localities and two native habitats, in Asia and the U.S.A., respectively. The results show, that the largest diameter of untreated cysts, the largest diameter of decapsulated cysts, and a thicker chorion usually are found in invasive populations. Because of the small cysts, which have an effect on an increasing quantity per unit weight and thus could be the cause of increased hatching efficiency, commercial productions of A. franciscana cysts from native sources should potentially be considered higher quality than productions from non-indigenous environments. Principal Component Analysis revealed that all cyst batches from San Francisco Bay were classified in one group and most of the invasive populations could be arranged in another, separate group. Although the diameter of the decapsulated cyst and chorion thickness showed a negative and significant correlation among invasive populations, there was no significant relationship within native populations. These observations contrast with biometrical patterns of parthenogenetic populations.
Further records of the anchialine shrimp Caridina rubella Fujino & Shokita, 1975 (Decapoda, Atyidae)
Authors: De Grave Sammy , Iliffe Thomas M. , Christodoulou Magdalini
Published: August 2022

Based on material collected during the mid- to late 1980s new distributional records for the anchialine shrimp, Caridina rubella Fujino & Shokita, 1975 are presented. Asides from the Ryukyus, Palawan and Sulawesi, the species is now also recorded from Tahiti, Niue, Tonga, Western Samoa, the Loyalty Islands, Solomon Islands, Bohol and Panglao. Attention is drawn to the considerable rostral variation in the species.
Community structure of zooplankton during the southwest-northeast monsoon transition period in the southeastern East China Sea
Authors: Tseng Li-Chun , Molinero Juan Carlos , Chen Qing-Chao , Hwang Jiang-Shiou
Published: August 2022

The assessment of zooplankton spatial structure is critical to quantifying plankton production and biochemical cycling. Here, we show the effect of monsoon-driven hydrographic changes on the spatial patterns of zooplankton at regional scales. Based on a field survey conducted during the monsoon transition, we assess the community structure and ash-free dry weight above 100 m depth in the Kuroshio edge area, southeastern East China Sea. The zooplankton community was dominated by copepods, with calanoids as the most abundant taxon followed by poecilostomatoids. Copepod assemblages comprised 81 species belonging to 41 families, and 23 genera, with Undinula vulgaris as the most abundant species. The richness of zooplankton taxa showed a mounting trend from the coast to offshore, which was opposite to the spatial variation of total zooplankton biomass. Our results suggest a leading influence of the Kuroshio Current during the southwest-northeast monsoon transition period in the southeastern East China Sea.
Global Norm Diffusion of LGBTI Diplomacy
Authors: Rainer Elise
Published: August 2022

This article examines the genesis of LGBTI diplomacy across ministries of foreign affairs (MFA s). Examining primarily Sweden and the United States, insights are provided into early LGBTI diplomatic adoption in the 2000 s. It analyses how foreign policy leaders have peer-pressured, inspired and influenced another, and continue to do so, to include LGBTI rights into their foreign policy agendas. As a former US diplomat and scholar, the author utilises primary source data and high-level interviews from the US, Sweden and the EU. Findings indicate that Swedish diplomats played a unique role in norm entrepreneurship in the development of global LGBTI diplomacy. Diplomats across North America and the EU replicated Sweden’s policy framing and programmatic strategies for global LGBTI rights. From the State Department side, once US diplomats joined the small community of nations engaged in LGBTI diplomacy, US political influence served to legitimise and further prioritise LGBTI rights across global institutions.
The Italian Legislative Procedure During the Pandemic Emergency, the National Recovery and Resilience Plan and the Reform of Parliamentary Rules of Procedure
Authors: Bartolucci Luca , Gianniti Luigi
Published: August 2022

The paper analyzes the Italian legislative procedure during the pandemic, as well as its deterioration and some of the practices that characterized it. Furthermore, it takes into consideration the legislative procedure envisaged in the Italian National Recovery and Resilience Plan and some possible reforms of parliamentary rules of procedure.
A review of records of the Trimeresurus albolabris Gray, 1842 group from the Indian subcontinent: expanded description and range extension of Trimeresurus salazar, redescription of Trimeresurus septentrionalis and rediscovery of historical specimens of Trimeresurus davidi (Reptilia: Viperidae)
Authors: VOGEL GERNOT , MALLIK ASHOK KUMAR , CHANDRAMOULI S. R. , SHARMA VIVEK , GANESH S. R.
Published: August 2022

We revisit the identities of ‘Trimeresurus albolabris’ records from India and Nepal, based on a re-examination of historically mentioned specimens. Based on morphological congruence, we identify an old specimen originally labeled as T. albolabris from ‘Nagpur, Central Province’ as Trimeresurus salazar. We also provide new records of T. salazar based on molecular data from newly collected specimens in Central India. As the range of T. salazar is now known to approach that of its sister species Trimeresurus septentrionalis, we also redescribe T. septentrionalis based on the holotype and referred material. Finally, we examined two historical specimens from “Madras” collected during the Novara Expedition, which we identify as T. davidi, leading to a reassessment of their origin. Consequently, we remove T. albolabris from the list of Indian snake fauna.
A new important species of Nymphidae (Neuroptera) from the Lower Cretaceous Crato Formation of Brazil
Authors: MAKARKIN VLADIMIR N.
Published: August 2022

Olindanymphes? headsi sp. nov. (Neuroptera: Nymphidae) is described from the late Aptian (Lower Cretaceous) Crato Formation of Brazil. Its hindwing is unique in the family by the presence of the few-pectinate both CuA and CuP, each with two to three branches. The few-pectinate CuA in the hindwing is a derived condition known only in three Early Cretaceous species, including the new species.
A Regime Diagram for Internal Lee Waves in Coastal Plain Estuaries
Authors: Li Renjian , Li Ming
Published: August 2022

Using an idealized channel representative of a coastal plain estuary, we conducted numerical simulations to investigate the generation of internal lee waves by lateral circulation. It is shown that the lee waves can be generated across all salinity regimes in an estuary. Since the lateral currents are usually subcritical with respect to the lowest mode, mode-2 lee waves are most prevalent but a hydraulic jump may develop during the transition to subcritical flows in the deep channel, producing high energy dissipation and strong mixing. Unlike flows over a sill, stratified water in the deep channel may become stagnant such that a mode-1 depression wave can form higher up in the water column. With the lee wave Froude number above 1 and the intrinsic wave frequency between the inertial and buoyancy frequency, the lee waves generated in coastal plain estuaries are nonlinear waves with the wave amplitude Δh scaling approximately with , where V is the maximum lateral flow velocity and is the buoyancy frequency. The model results are summarized using the estuarine classification diagram based on the freshwater Froude number Frf and the mixing parameter M. The Δh decreases with increasing Frf as stronger stratification suppresses waves, and no internal waves are generated at large Frf. The Δh initially increases with increasing M as the lateral flows become stronger with stronger tidal currents, but decreases or saturates to a certain amplitude as M further increases. This modeling study suggests that lee waves can be generated over a wide range of estuarine conditions.
Climate–Urban Nexus: A Study of Vulnerable Women in Urban Areas of KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa
Authors: Hlahla Sithabile , Simatele Mulala Danny , Hill Trevor , Mabhaudhi Tafadzwanashe
Published: August 2022

The changes in climatic conditions and their associated impacts are contributing to a worsening of existing gender inequalities and a heightening of women’s socioeconomic vulnerabilities in South Africa. Using data collected by research methods inspired by the tradition of participatory appraisals, we systematically discuss the impacts of climate change on marginalized women and the ways in which they are actively responding to climate challenges and building their adaptive capacity and resilience in the urban areas of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. We argue that changes in climate have both direct and indirect negative impacts on women’s livelihoods and well-being. Less than one-half (37%) of the women reported implementing locally developed coping mechanisms to minimize the impacts of climate-related events, whereas 63% reported lacking any form of formal safety nets to deploy and reduce the impacts of climate-induced shocks and stresses. The lack of proactive and gender-sensitive local climate change policies and strategies creates socioeconomic and political barriers that limit the meaningful participation of women in issues that affect them and marginalize them in the climate change discourses and decision-making processes, thereby hampering their efforts to adapt and reduce existing vulnerabilities. Thus, we advocate for the creation of an enabling environment to develop and adopt progendered, cost-effective, transformative, and sustainable climate change policies and adaptation strategies that are responsive to the needs of vulnerable groups (women) of people in society. This will serve to build their adaptive capacity and resilience to climate variability and climate change–related risks and hazards.
Radiomic-signature changes after early treatment improve the prediction of progression-free survival in patients with advanced anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Hou Donghui , Zheng Xiaomin , Song Wei , Liu Xiaoqing , Wang Sicong , Zhou Lina , Tao Xiuli , Lv Lv , Sun Qi , Jin Yujing , Zhang Zewei , Ding Lieming , Wu Ning , Zhao Shijun
Published: August 2022

Background

The prognosis of lung cancer varies widely, even in cases wherein the tumor stage, genetic mutation, and treatment regimens are the same. Thus, an effective means for risk stratification of patients with lung cancer is needed.

Purpose

To develop and validate a combined model for predicting progression-free survival and risk stratification in patients with advanced anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with ensartinib.

Material and Methods

We analyzed 203 tumor lesions in 114 patients and evaluated average radiomic feature measures from all lesions at baseline and changes in these features after early treatment (Δradiomic features). Combined models were developed by integrating clinical with radiomic features. The prediction performance and clinical value of the proposed models were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic analysis, calibration curve, decision curve analysis (DCA), and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis.

Results

Both the baseline and delta combined models achieved predictive efficacy with a high area under the curve. The calibration curve and DCA indicated the high accuracy and clinical usefulness of the combined models for tumor progression prediction. In the Kaplan–Meier analysis, the delta and baseline combined models, Δradiomic signature, and two selected clinical features could distinguish patients with a higher progression risk within 42 weeks. The delta combined model had the best performance.

Conclusion

The combination of clinical and radiomic features provided a prognostic value for survival and progression in patients with NSCLC receiving ensartinib. Radiomic-signature changes after early treatment could be more valuable than those at baseline alone.
Intergenerational conflict among resettled South Sudanese in Australia
Authors: Pittaway Troy , Riggs Elisha , Dantas Jaya A. R.
Published: August 2022

South Sudanese families have faced many hardships in the process of acculturation to Australian society. This has led to rapid family breakdown amongst refugees from South Sudan who live in Melbourne, Australia, and has created tension between families, the wider South Sudanese community, and authorities. This qualitative study explores how shifting dynamics of religious faith, the concept of family and cultural values impacts South Sudanese families and young people. The study consisted of 23 semi-structured interviews, three focus groups and two feedback forums, gathering data from South Sudanese youth aged 14 to 21 years, social workers, elders and parents from the South Sudanese community. Several themes were identified including the impact of intergenerational conflict, coping with new freedoms in Australia, the associated tensions these freedoms create within the South Sudanese community, and young people’s conflict with religion. The patriarchal system that underpins the family structure of the South Sudanese culture is under significant strain as women and children are becoming aware of their rights, resulting in friction between men and women, parents and children. Male elders believed the embracing of freedom by women and children was at the core of family breakdown, leading to cultural erosion, and was the root of the problems experienced by the youth. The church as a traditional meeting place and a centre point for social inclusion within the South Sudanese community remains relevant as an important factor in social networking for parents and elders but lacks relevance for many South Sudanese youth.
Late effects in patients with mantle cell lymphoma treated with or without autologous stem cell transplantation
Authors: Ekberg Sara , Smedby Karin E. , Albertsson-Lindblad Alexandra , Jerkeman Mats , Weibull Caroline E. , Glimelius Ingrid
Published: August 2022

Studies on late effects in patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) are becoming increasingly important as survival is improving, and novel targeted drugs are being introduced. However, knowledge about late effects is limited. The aim of this population-based study was to describe the magnitude and panorama of late effects among patients treated with or without high-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplantation (HD-ASCT). The study cohort included all patients with MCL, recorded in the Swedish Lymphoma Register, aged 18 to 69 years, diagnosed between 2000 and 2014 (N = 620; treated with HD-ASCT, n = 247) and 1:10 matched healthy comparators. Patients and comparators were followed up via the National Patient Register and Cause of Death Register, from 12 months after diagnosis or matching to December 2017. Incidence rate ratios of the numbers of outpatient visits, hospitalizations, and bed days were estimated using negative binomial regression models. In relation to the matched comparators, the rate of specialist and hospital visits was significantly higher among patients with MCL. Patients with MCL had especially high relative risks of infectious, respiratory, and blood disorders. Within this observation period, no difference in the rate of these complications, including secondary neoplasms, was observed between patients treated with and without HD-ASCT. Most of the patients died from their lymphoma and not from another cause or treatment complication. Taken together, our results imply that most of the posttreatment health care needs are related to the lymphoma disease itself, thus, indicating the need for more efficient treatment options.