bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inferential Communication: Bridging the Gap Between Intentional and Ostensive Communication in Non-human Primates
Authors: Warren Elizabeth , Call Josep
Published: January 2022

Communication, when defined as an act intended to affect the psychological state of another individual, demands the use of inference. Either the signaler, the recipient, or both must make leaps of understanding which surpass the semantic information available and draw from pragmatic clues to fully imbue and interpret meaning. While research into human communication and the evolution of language has long been comfortable with mentalistic interpretations of communicative exchanges, including rich attributions of mental state, research into animal communication has balked at theoretical models which describe mentalized cognitive mechanisms. We submit a new theoretical perspective on animal communication: the model of inferential communication. For use when existing proximate models of animal communication are not sufficient to fully explain the complex, flexible, and intentional communication documented in certain species, specifically non-human primates, we present our model as a bridge between shallower, less cognitive descriptions of communicative behavior and the perhaps otherwise inaccessible mentalistic interpretations of communication found in theoretical considerations of human language. Inferential communication is a framework that builds on existing evidence of referentiality, intentionality, and social inference in primates. It allows that they might be capable of applying social inferences to a communicative setting, which could explain some of the cognitive processes that enable the complexity and flexibility of primate communication systems. While historical models of animal communication focus on the means-ends process of behavior and apparent cognitive outcomes, inferential communication invites consideration of the mentalistic processes that must underlie those outcomes. We propose a mentalized approach to questions, investigations, and interpretations of non-human primate communication. We include an overview of both ultimate and proximate models of animal communication, which contextualize the role and utility of our inferential communication model, and provide a detailed breakdown of the possible levels of cognitive complexity which could be investigated using this framework. Finally, we present some possible applications of inferential communication in the field of non-human primate communication and highlight the role it could play in advancing progress toward an increasingly precise understanding of the cognitive capabilities of our closest living relatives.
Slovenian Validation of the Children’s Perceived Use of Self-Regulated Learning Inventory
Authors: Komidar Luka , Podlesek Anja , Pirc Tina , Pečjak Sonja , Depolli Steiner Katja , Puklek Levpušček Melita , Gril Alenka , Boh Podgornik Bojana , Hladnik Aleš , Kavčič Alenka , Bohak Ciril , Lesar Žiga , Marolt Matija , Pesek Matevž , Peklaj Cirila
Published: January 2022

The importance of self-regulated learning (SRL) has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic and measures for assessing students’ self-regulation skills and knowledge are greatly needed. We present the results of the first thorough adaptation of the Children’s Perceived use of Self-Regulated Learning Inventory (CP-SRLI). The inventory, consisting of 15 scales measuring nine components of SRL, was administered to a sample of 541 Slovenian ninth graders. Confirmatory factor analyses supported internal structure validity of most components, but two components required some structural modifications. Internal consistency coefficients were acceptable for the majority of scale scores and were highly comparable to the original ones. While metric invariance across gender was confirmed, the scalar invariance of some scales needs further examination. Meaningful correlations with relevant externally assessed and self-reported self-regulation and school performance variables indicated good criterion validity of the inventory. The Slovenian version of the CP-SRLI thus proved to be a sufficiently valid and reliable instrument for assessing pupils’ learning self-regulation.
Effects of Body-Oriented Interventions on Preschoolers' Social-Emotional Competence: A Systematic Review
Authors: Dias Rodrigues Andreia , Cruz-Ferreira Ana , Marmeleira José , Veiga Guida
Published: January 2022

Objective:

A growing body of evidence supports the effectiveness of body-oriented interventions (BOI) in educational contexts, showing positive influences on social-emotional competence. Nevertheless, there is a lack of systematization of the evidence regarding preschool years. This is a two-part systematic review. In this first part, we aim to examine the effects of BOI on preschoolers' social-emotional competence outcomes.

Data Sources:

Searches were conducted in Pubmed, Scopus, PsycInfo, ERIC, Web of Science, Portal Regional da BVS and CINAHL.

Eligibility Criteria:

English, French and Portuguese language articles published between January 2000 and October 2020, that evaluated the effects of BOI implemented in educational contexts on social-emotional competence of preschool children. Only randomized controlled trials (RCT) or quasi-RCT were included.

Data Extraction and Synthesis:

Two reviewers independently completed data extraction and risk-of-bias assessment. The level of scientific evidence was measured through the Best Evidence Synthesis.

Results:

Nineteen studies were included. There was strong evidence that BOI do not improve anger/aggression, delay of gratification and altruism. Nevertheless, there was moderate evidence that BOI effectively improve other social-emotional outcomes, such as empathy, social interaction, social independence, general internalizing behaviors, and general externalizing behaviors. The lack of scientific evidence was compromised by the methodological quality of the studies.

Conclusion:

BOI effectively improve specific social-emotional competences of preschool children.

Systematic Review Registration:

PROSPERO, identifier CRD42020172248.
Moral Foundations Theory Among Autistic and Neurotypical Children
Authors: Dempsey Erin Elizabeth , Moore Chris , Johnson Shannon A. , Stewart Sherry H. , Smith Isabel M.
Published: January 2022

Morality can help guide behavior and facilitate relationships. Although moral judgments by autistic people are similar to neurotypical individuals, many researchers argue that subtle differences signify deficits in autistic individuals. Moral foundation theory describes moral judgments in terms of differences rather than deficits. The current research, aimed at assessing autistic individuals’ moral inclinations using Haidt’s framework, was co-designed with autistic community members. Our aim was to describe autistic moral thinking from a strengths-based perspective while acknowledging differences that may pose interpersonal challenges among autistic youth. We assessed 25 autistic and 23 neurotypical children’s moral judgments using the Moral Foundations Questionnaire for Kids. We used semi-structured interviews and qualitative analysis with a subset of participants to describe children’s moral reasoning. Analyses suggested that autistic and neurotypical children make similar judgments about moral transgressions across all five moral foundations. General linear mixed modeling showed that the greatest predictor of recommending punishment was how bad children deemed moral transgressions to be. We also found a trend that autistic children were more likely to recommend punishment for harmless norms violations than were neurotypical children. Future research could use longitudinal methods to understand the development of moral judgments among autistic and neurotypical children.
Suddenly Telework: Job Crafting as a Way to Promote Employee Well-Being?
Authors: Stempel Christiane R. , Siestrup Katja
Published: January 2022

COVID-19 confronted many people with an abrupt shift from their usual working environment to telework. This study explores which job characteristics are perceived as most crucial in this exceptional situation and how they differ from people’s previous working conditions. Additionally, we focus on job crafting as a response to this situation and how it is related to employees’ well-being. We conducted an online survey with N = 599 participants, of which 321 reported that they were telework newcomers. First, we asked participants to indicate the three most important advantages and disadvantages they see in telework. The subsequent questionnaire contained a comprehensive measure of working conditions before and during the pandemic, job crafting behaviors, and indicators of well-being. Based on the qualitative answers, we identified three major advantages and disadvantages. Quantitative results indicate perceived changes in all job characteristics for telework newcomers. Concerning working conditions and well-being, job crafting activities that aim to increase structural and social resources are important mediators. The findings underline the need to design appropriate telework conditions and encourage job crafting activities to foster occupational well-being.
Gratitude as Mood Mediates the Effects of a 6-Weeks Gratitude Intervention on Mental Well-Being: Post hoc Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Bohlmeijer Ernst , Kraiss Jannis , Schotanus-Dijkstra Marijke , ten Klooster Peter
Published: January 2022

There is a gap of knowledge about the extent to which gratitude is indeed the working mechanism of change in gratitude interventions aiming to promote mental well-being. This study explores the mediational role of gratitude as mood in the context of a recently conducted randomized controlled trial on the effects of a 6-week gratitude intervention on mental well-being in comparison with a waitlist control group. Gratitude as mood was measured at 2, 4, and 6 weeks. Both simple and multiple mediation models were conducted as well as various sensitivity analyses. Results showed a gradual increase of gratitude as mood during the intervention. The effects of the 6-week gratitude intervention on mental well-being were mediated by increases of gratitude as mood at 4 weeks but not at 2 weeks. These findings suggest a dose-response relationship for gratitude interventions, but more research is warranted.
Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Children's Mental Health: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bussières Eve-Line , Malboeuf-Hurtubise Catherine , Meilleur A. , Mastine Trinity , Hérault Elodie , Chadi Nicholas , Montreuil Marjorie , Généreux Mélissa , Camden Chantal ,   PRISME-COVID Team
Published: January 2022

Background:The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated mental health problems in many individuals, including children. Children with pre-existing socio-demographic or developmental risk factors may be particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of the pandemic and associated public health preventive measures.

Objective:This systematic review and meta-analysis explored the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of children aged 5–13 years-old, while highlighting the specific difficulties experienced by children with neurodevelopmental issues or chronic health conditions.

Methods:A systematic search of the published literature was conducted in Medline, ERIC, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar, followed by a quantitative meta-analysis of the eligible studies.

Results:Out of the 985 articles identified, 28 empirical studies with prospective or retrospective longitudinal data were included in the quantitative synthesis. COVID-19 lockdown measures were associated with negative general mental health outcomes among children (g= 0.28,p< 0.001, andk= 21), but of small magnitude. Sleep habits were also changed during the pandemic, as sleep duration significantly increased in children (g= 0.32;p= 0.004, andk= 9). Moreover, results did not differ between children from the general population and those from clinical populations such as children with epilepsy, oncology, neurodevelopmental disorders, or obesity. Effect sizes were larger in European vs. Asian countries.

Conclusions:Studies included in this review suggest that children's mental health was generally negatively impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic. More research is needed to understand the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's mental health and the influence of specific risks factors as they evolve over time.
Associations Between Poor Sleep Quality, Anxiety Symptoms, and Depressive Symptoms Among Chinese Adolescents Before and During COVID-19: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Wang Wanxin , Guo Yangfeng , Du Xueying , Li Wenyan , Wu Ruipeng , Guo Lan , Lu Ciyong
Published: January 2022

Since the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, adolescents' emerging mental health and behavior issues have been an international public health concern. This longitudinal study aimed to examine the situation of poor sleep quality, anxiety, and depressive symptoms among Chinese adolescents and to explore the associations between them before and during COVID-19. A total of 1,952 middle and high school students as eligible participants at baseline (pre-COVID-19, Wave 1; response rate: 98.79%), 1,831 eligible students were followed up at Wave 2 (October 2019 to December 2019, pre-COVID-19; retention rate: 93.80%), and 1,790 completed the follow-up at Wave 3 (during the COVID-19; retention rate: 97.80%). The mean age of the baseline students was 13.56 (SD: 1.46) years. The differences in anxiety and depressive symptoms between Wave 1, Wave 2, and Wave 3 were not statistically significant. The proportion of students with poor sleep quality increased over time, from Wave 1 (21.0%) to Wave 3 (26.0%, OR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.17–1.60, P = 0.001) and from Wave 2 (21.9%) to Wave 3 (OR = 1.29, 95% CI = 1.11–1.51, P < 0.001). The cross-lagged generalized linear mixed models revealed that the concurrent and cross-lagged associations of poor sleep quality with anxiety symptoms across the three waves were significant (P < 0.05) and vice versa. Only a marginally significant positive cross-lagged association between poor sleep quality at Wave 2 and depressive symptoms at Wave 3 was found (standardized β estimate = 0.044, SE = 0.022, P = 0.045). Sleep quality was adversely affected during COVID-19, and the bidirectional associations of poor sleep quality with anxiety symptoms could not be neglected.
Companions in the Abyss: A Feasibility and Acceptability Study of an Online Therapy Group for Healthcare Providers Working During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Smith-MacDonald Lorraine , Lusk Jaimie , Lee-Baggley Dayna , Bright Katherine , Laidlaw Alexa , Voth Melissa , Spencer Shaylee , Cruikshank Emily , Pike Ashley , Jones Chelsea , Bremault-Phillips Suzette
Published: January 2022

Introduction:

In the context of the global pandemic of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus (COVID-19), healthcare providers (HCPs) have experienced difficult moral and ethical dilemmas. Research is highlighting the importance of moral injury (MI)–a trauma syndrome related to transgressing personal morals and values–in understanding the psychological harm and occupational impairment experienced by HCPs. To date, MI treatments have largely been developed for military personnel and veterans and rely on in-person one-on-one psychotherapy.

Purpose:

This project aims to explore the feasibility and acceptability of an evidence-informed online Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-based group therapy for MI in HCPs called “Accepting Moral Pain and Suffering for Healthcare Providers” (AMPS-HCP).

Method:

This feasibility and acceptability study included three separate phases with the first two phases focused on the development of the psychotherapeutic intervention and the third phase focused on the evaluation of the psychotherapeutic intervention. Eight participants (including registered nurses, practical nurses and respiratory therapists) completed seven 90-min sessions in an online group format. The focus of these sessions included ACT and MI psychoeducation and experientials. Qualitative semi-structured interview data was thematically analyzed while demographic and quantitative self-reported outcome data underwent descriptive analysis and non-parametric testing.

Results:

Results show that the intervention was highly feasible and acceptable to healthcare providers who worked on the frontline during COVID-19. Feasibility (referrals, eligibility, retention, participation engagement) was strong (8 out of 10 participants; 80% vs. desired >70% eligibility) and overall, 80% of participants completed 71% of the intervention. Data further supported the applicability and acceptability of the intervention. Preliminary data suggests that AMPS-HCP may supports HCPs to address MI.

Discussion:

This study is the first to report on the development and evaluation of an online MI group intervention for registered nurses, registered practical nurses, and respiratory therapists working during COVID-19. Results showed the use of both the online and group components of the intervention were acceptable and feasible during the third wave of COVID-19.
Identification of Children of Mentally Ill Patients and Provision of Support According to the Norwegian Health Legislation: A 11-Year Review
Authors: Reedtz Charlotte , Jensaas Eva , Storjord Trine , Kristensen Kjersti Bergum , Lauritzen Camilla
Published: January 2022

Background:

According to amended legislation implemented in Norway in 2010, personnel in healthcare services for adults are obligated to identify patients' minor children and to assess the family situation. Health personnel is also obligated to contribute to adequate support to families affected by parental mental illness or substance use disorders. The intention behind the amendment was to support and protect children of mentally ill parents, as they are at risk of developing problems of their own. The aim of the present study was to evaluate health personnel's practice during the years 2010-2020, more specifically; (a) to what extent children of patients with mental illness and substance use disorders are registered in patient records, and (b) to what extent activities relating to the assessment and support of patients' minor children are documented in patient records.

Method:

The participants in the study are patients admitted to Division for Mental Health and Substance Use at the University Hospital of North Norway in the years 2010–2020. The data was drawn from patient records during October 2021.

Results:

The registration of patients' minor children is considerably strengthened since the introduction of the new Norwegian Health Personnel Act in 2010, and estimates show that 56% of patients' minor children are identified. However, only 31% of cases where patients have identified minor children this result in health personnel performing activities to support the children.

Discussion:

Based on the rising proportion of identified minor children throughout the 10-year period, it seems evident that the dissemination efforts have contributed to the development of some new skills among health personnel. However, compared with the national estimation that 35% of mentally ill and substance abusing patients have minor children, a large proportion of children remains unidentified. After identification, there seem to still be a long way to go before minor children are systematically offered support. Different solutions to strengthen the implementation of new skills in clinical practice, to ensure the identification of minor children and provision of necessary support for them is discussed.
EHealth and Its Role in Supporting Audiological Rehabilitation: Patient Perspectives on Barriers and Facilitators of Using a Personal Hearing Support System With Mobile Application as Part of the EVOTION Study
Authors: Murdin Louisa , Sladen Mark , Williams Hannah , Bamiou Doris-Eva , Bibas Athanasios , Kikidis Dimitris , Oiknonomou Apostolis , Kouris Ioannis , Koutsouris Dimitris , Pontoppidan Niels H.
Published: January 2022

Background

Hearing loss is a major public health challenge. Audiology services need to utilise a range of rehabilitative services and maximise innovative practice afforded by technology to actively promote personalized, participatory, preventative and predictive care if they are to cope with the social and economic burden placed on the population by the rapidly rising prevalence of hearing loss. Digital interventions and teleaudiology could be a key part of providing high quality, cost-effective, patient-centred management. There is currently very limited evidence that assesses the hearing impaired patient perspective on the acceptance and usability of this type of technology.

Aim

This study aims to identify patient perceptions of the use of a hearing support system including a mobile smartphone app when used with Bluetooth-connected hearing aids across the everyday life of users, as part of the EVOTION project.

Methods

We applied a questionnaire to 564 participants in three countries across Europe and analysed the following topics: connectivity, hearing aid controls, instructional videos, audiological tests and auditory training.

Key Findings

Older users were just as satisfied as younger users when operating this type of technology. Technical problems such as Bluetooth connectivity need to be minimised as this issue is highly critical for user satisfaction, engagement and uptake. A system that promotes user-controllability of hearing aids that is more accessible and easier to use is highly valued. Participants are happy to utilise monitoring tests and auditory training on a mobile phone out of the clinic but in order to have value the test battery needs to be relevant and tailored to each user, easy to understand and use. Such functions can elicit a negative as well as positive experience for each user.

Conclusion

Older and younger adults can utilise an eHealth mobile app to complement their rehabilitation and health care. If the technology works well, is tailored to the individual and in-depth personalised guidance and support is provided, it could assist maximisation of hearing aid uptake, promotion of self-management and improving outcomes.
Carbon Monoxide Emission and Air Quality Analysis Based on an Improved Double-Weight Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation
Authors: Peng Weicai , Liu Xiangguo , Taghizadeh-Hesary Farhad
Published: January 2022

In this article, we adopt an improved double-weighted fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method to investigate the air condition of Hefei City from July 2016 to July 2021. We focus on the impact of the toxicity index, especially the impact of carbon monoxide, which is also considered in some other kinds of quality evaluation, such as water classification. Firstly, we found that with the increasing awareness of environmental protection and with the attention of the government to the quality of air in recent years, the air conditions have become better (the grades become lower). Secondly, the value of the factors, PM2.5, PM10, SO2, CO, NO2, and O3 periodically fluctuate from year to year; and the periodicity of O3 is reversed with the other factors. Finally, the monthly average analysis shows that the overall air quality is good; all the grades are I-II, except for December 2017 which has a grade III. Furthermore, the air quality in the winter (especially in December and January) is not always good.
A Noise Based Medical Elites Silence Model and Public Health Opinion Distortion in Social Networks
Authors: Wei Jianliang , Qin Chi , Ji Hao , Guo Lingling , Chen Jingjing , Xu Yingying
Published: January 2022

Under the impact of internet populism, internet violence, and other noises on the internet, medical elites, who have a professional background, did not intend to share their opinions on the internet. Thus, misinformation about health is increasingly prevalent. We roughly divided the users in social networks into ordinary users, medical elites, and super-influencers. In this paper, we propose a communication model of health information based on the improved Hegselmann-Krause (H-K) model. By conducting MATLAB-based simulation, the experimental results showed that network noise was an important factor that interfered with opinion propagation regarding health. The louder the noise is, the harder it is for health opinions within a group to reach a consensus. But even in a noisy environment, super-influencers could influence the overall cognition on public health in the social network fundamentally. When the super-influencers held positive opinions in public health, the medical elite keeping silent had a noise-tolerant effect on opinion communication in public health, and vice versa. Thus, three factors concerning noise control, the free information release of medical elites, and the positive position of super-influence are very important to form a virtuous information environment for public health.
Digital Economy and Health: Does Green Technology Matter in BRICS Economies?
Authors: Jiang Cuifeng , Chang Hsuling , Shahzad Imran
Published: January 2022

The present study attempts to examine the impact of digitization and green technology on the health outcomes of BRICS countries over the period of 1993–2019. Internet users measure digitalization, and health outcome is determined by life expectancy. The study employed the ARDL estimation approach for empirical investigation of country-specific analysis. GDP per capita and current health expenditures have been incorporated as control variables. The study findings reveal that digitalization results in increasing life expectancy in the long-run in BRICS except for Brazil. While green technology tends to enhance life expectancy in the long-run in Russia and China, it produces an insignificant impact on health outcomes in the short-run. While GDP and health expenditures also improve life expectancy in mostly BRICS economies in the long-run and short-run. Our study provides some policy implications for BRICS nations.
Synchronization-Free Multivariate Statistical Process Control for Online Monitoring of Batch Process Evolution
Authors: Rocha de Oliveira Rodrigo , de Juan Anna
Published: January 2022

Synchronization of variable trajectories from batch process data is a delicate operation that can induce artifacts in the definition of multivariate statistical process control (MSPC) models for real-time monitoring of batch processes. The current paper introduces a new synchronization-free approach for online batch MSPC. This approach is based on the use of local MSPC models that cover a normal operating conditions (NOC) trajectory defined from principal component analysis (PCA) modeling of non-synchronized historical batches. The rationale behind is that, although non-synchronized NOC batches are used, an overall NOC trajectory with a consistent evolution pattern can be described, even if batch-to-batch natural delays and differences between process starting and end points exist. Afterwards, the local MSPC models are used to monitor the evolution of new batches and derive the related MSPC chart. During the real-time monitoring of a new batch, this strategy allows testing whether every new observation is following or not the NOC trajectory. For a NOC observation, an additional indication of the batch process progress is provided based on the identification of the local MSPC model that provides the lowest residuals. When an observation deviates from the NOC behavior, contribution plots based on the projection of the observation to the best local MSPC model identified in the last NOC observation are used to diagnose the variables related to the fault. This methodology is illustrated using two real examples of NIR-monitored batch processes: a fluidized bed drying process and a batch distillation of gasoline blends with ethanol.
Morphological Evolution: Bioinspired Methods for Analyzing Bioinspired Robots
Authors: Aaron Eric , Hawthorne-Madell Joshua , Livingston Ken , Long John H.
Published: January 2022

To fully understand the evolution of complex morphologies, analyses cannot stop at selection: It is essential to investigate the roles and interactions of multiple processes that drive evolutionary outcomes. The challenges of undertaking such analyses have affected both evolutionary biologists and evolutionary roboticists, with their common interests in complex morphologies. In this paper, we present analytical techniques from evolutionary biology, selection gradient analysis and morphospace walks, and we demonstrate their applicability to robot morphologies in analyses of three evolutionary mechanisms: randomness (genetic mutation), development (an explicitly implemented genotype-to-phenotype map), and selection. In particular, we applied these analytical techniques to evolved populations of simulated biorobots—embodied robots designed specifically as models of biological systems, for the testing of biological hypotheses—and we present a variety of results, including analyses that do all of the following: illuminate different evolutionary dynamics for different classes of morphological traits; illustrate how the traits targeted by selection can vary based on the likelihood of random genetic mutation; demonstrate that selection on two selected sets of morphological traits only partially explains the variance in fitness in our biorobots; and suggest that biases in developmental processes could partially explain evolutionary dynamics of morphology. When combined, the complementary analytical approaches discussed in this paper can enable insight into evolutionary processes beyond selection and thereby deepen our understanding of the evolution of robotic morphologies.
A Review of Antimicrobial Activity of Dental Mesenchymal Stromal Cells: Is There Any Potential?
Authors: Andrukhov Oleh , Blufstein Alice , Behm Christian
Published: January 2022

Antimicrobial defense is an essential component of host-microbial homeostasis and contributes substantially to oral health maintenance. Dental mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) possess multilineage differentiation potential, immunomodulatory properties and play an important role in various processes like regeneration and disease progression. Recent studies show that dental MSCs might also be involved in antibacterial defense. This occurs by producing antimicrobial peptides or attracting professional phagocytic immune cells and modulating their activity. The production of antimicrobial peptides and immunomodulatory abilities of dental MSCs are enhanced by an inflammatory environment and influenced by vitamin D3. Antimicrobial peptides also have anti-inflammatory effects in dental MSCs and improve their differentiation potential. Augmentation of antibacterial efficiency of dental MSCs could broaden their clinical application in dentistry.
Postmenopausal Vaginal Microbiome and Microbiota
Authors: Oliveira Nayara Santos de , Lima Ana Beatriz Feijão de , Brito Juliana Carvalho Regino de , Sarmento Ayane Cristine Alves , Gonçalves Ana Katherine Silveira , Eleutério José
Published: January 2022

The ovulatory cycle has a significant influence on the microbial composition, according to the action of estrogen and progesterone on the stratified squamous epithelium, due to an increase in epithelial thickness, glycogen deposition, and influence on local immunology. The 16S rRNA gene amplification and pyrosequencing study demonstrated that healthy women have community state types (CST), classified as; type “L,” with a predominance of Lactobacillus crispatus, type II, with a predominance of Lactobacillus gasseri, type III, where Lactobacillus iners predominates, and type V with a predominance of Lactobacillus jensenii. Type IV does not identify lactobacilli but a heterogeneous population of bacteria. There seems to be a relationship between increased vaginal bacterial diversity and poverty of lactobacilli with the complaining of vaginal dryness. With menopause, there appears to be a reduction in lactobacilli associated with higher serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and lower estrogen levels. The evaluation of Gram-stained vaginal smears in postmenopause women must take into account the clinical-laboratory correlation. We should observe two meanly possibilities, atrophy with few bacterial morphotypes, without inflammatory, infiltrate (atrophy without inflammation), and atrophy with evident inflammatory infiltrate (atrophy with inflammation or atrophic vaginitis). The relationship between the microbiome and postmenopausal vulvovaginal symptoms seems to be related to the bacterial vaginal population. However, more robust studies are needed to confirm this impression.
Scaling, Mirror Symmetries and Musical Consonances Among the Distances of the Planets of the Solar System
Authors: Bank Michael J. , Scafetta Nicola
Published: January 2022

Orbital systems are often self-organized and/or characterized by harmonic relations. Inspired by music theory, we rewrite the Geddes and King-Hele (QJRAS, 24, 10–13, 1983) equations for mirror symmetries among the distances of the planets of the Solar System in an elegant and compact form by using the 2/3rd power of the ratios of the semi-major axis lengths of two neighboring planets (eight pairs, including the belt of the asteroids). This metric suggests that the Solar System could be characterized by a scaling and mirror-like structure relative to the asteroid belt that relates together the terrestrial and Jovian planets. These relations are based on a 9/8 ratio multiplied by powers of 2, which correspond musically to the interval of the Pythagorean epogdoon (a Major Second) and its addition with one or more octaves. Extensions of the same model are discussed and found compatible also with the still hypothetical vulcanoid asteroids versus the transneptunian objects. The found relation also suggests that the planetary self-organization of our system could be generated by the 3:1 and 7:3 resonances of Jupiter, which are already known to have shaped the asteroid belt. The proposed model predicts the main Kirkwood asteroid gaps and the ratio among the planetary orbital parameters with a 99% accuracy, which is three times better than an alternative, recently proposed harmonic-resonance model for the Solar System. Furthermore, the ratios of neighboring planetary pairs correspond to four musical “consonances” having frequency ratios of 5/4 (Major Third), 4/3 (Perfect Fourth), 3/2 (Perfect Fifth) and 8/5 (Minor Sixth); the probability of obtaining this result randomly has a p < 0.001. Musical consonances are “pleasing” tones that harmoniously interrelate when sounded together, which suggests that the orbits of the planets of our Solar System could form some kind of gravitationally optimized and coordinated structure. Physical modeling indicates that energy non-conserving perturbations could drive a planetary system into a self-organized periodic state with characteristics vaguely similar of those found in our Solar System. However, our specific finding suggests that the planetary organization of our Solar System could be rather peculiar and based on more complex and unknown dynamical structures.
Coupling Between Alfvén Wave and Kelvin–Helmholtz Waves in the Low Latitude Boundary Layer
Authors: Kim E.-H. , Johnson J. R. , Nykyri K.
Published: January 2022

The Kelvin–Helmholtz (KH) instability of magnetohydrodynamic surface waves at the low latitude boundary layer is examined using both an eigenfrequency analysis and a time-dependent wave simulation. The analysis includes the effects of sheared flow and Alfvén velocity gradient. When the magnetosheath flows are perpendicular to the ambient magnetic field direction, unstable KH waves that propagate obliquely to the sheared flow direction occur at the sheared flow surface when the Alfvén Mach number is higher than an instability threshold. Including a shear transition layer between the magnetosphere and magnetosheath leads to secondary KH waves (driven by the sheared flow) that are coupled to the resonant surface Alfvén wave. There are remarkable differences between the primary and the secondary KH waves, including wave frequency, the growth rate, and the ratio between the transverse and compressional components. The secondary KH wave energy is concentrated near the shear Alfvén wave frequency at the magnetosheath with a lower frequency than the primary KH waves. Although the growth rate of the secondary KH waves is lower than the primary KH waves, the threshold condition is lower, so it is expected that these types of waves will dominate at a lower Mach number. Because the transverse component of the secondary KH waves is stronger than that of the primary KH waves, more efficient wave energy transfer from the boundary layer to the inner magnetosphere is also predicted.
Weak Turbulence and Quasilinear Diffusion for Relativistic Wave-Particle Interactions Via a Markov Approach
Authors: Allanson Oliver , Elsden Thomas , Watt Clare , Neukirch Thomas
Published: January 2022

We derive weak turbulence and quasilinear models for relativistic charged particle dynamics in pitch-angle and energy space, due to interactions with electromagnetic waves propagating (anti-)parallel to a uniform background magnetic field. We use a Markovian approach that starts from the consideration of single particle motion in a prescribed electromagnetic field. This Markovian approach has a number of benefits, including: 1) the evident self-consistent relationship between a more general weak turbulence theory and the standard resonant diffusion quasilinear theory (as is commonly used in e.g. radiation belt and solar wind modeling); 2) the general nature of the Fokker-Planck equation that can be derived without any prior assumptions regarding its form; 3) the clear dependence of the form of the Fokker-Planck equation and the transport coefficients on given specific timescales. The quasilinear diffusion coefficients that we derive are not new in and of themselves, but this concise derivation and discussion of the weak turbulence and quasilinear theories using the Markovian framework is physically very instructive. The results presented herein form fundamental groundwork for future studies that consider phenomena for which some of the assumptions made in this manuscript may be relaxed.
Cryptosporidium and Giardia in Livestock in Tigray, Northern Ethiopia and Associated Risk Factors for Infection: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kifleyohannes Tsegabirhan , Nødtvedt Ane , Debenham John James , Terefe Getachew , Robertson Lucy J.
Published: January 2022

The occurrence and species/genotypes of Cryptosporidium and Giardia duodenalis infecting young livestock in selected districts of Tigray, Ethiopia were investigated, along with risks associated with infection. A total of 757 faecal samples were collected from calves, lambs, and goat kids from four rural districts in Tigray, and also from calves in periurban Mekelle, Tigray's main city, and analysed for Cryptosporidium oocysts and Giardia cysts. Farmers answered questionnaires regarding potential risk factors at sample collection. Immunofluorescent antibody staining was used for parasite detection, and PCR at selected genes and sequencing of positive samples was used for molecular characterisation. The occurrence of Cryptosporidium infection was 10, 9, and 4% in calves, lambs, and goat kids, respectively; equivalent figures for Giardia infection were 39, 32, and 21%. Molecular characterisation of Cryptosporidium isolates revealed C. ubiquitum, subtype XIIa in all three host species; C. ryanae in calves and goat kids; C. andersoni and C. bovis were identified only in calves, and C. xiaoi was identified in lambs. For Giardia, Assemblage E predominated in all host species, but among calf isolates we also identified a few potentially zoonotic genotypes (assemblages A (AI) and Assemblage B). Periparturient care was shown to be a particularly relevant risk factor for infection, and infections were less likely to occur under extensive management systems. Our major findings were widespread occurrence of both parasites in livestock, and the apparent lack of the most common zoonotic species. Our results are discussed in relation to other relevant studies. As our study was conducted in Tigray, further investigation in different settings in Ethiopia could provide relevant information on transmission and zoonotic potential. In addition, given the dependency on healthy animals for the livelihoods of the population of Tigray, investigation of the effect of these common parasites on livestock productivity is important.
A Reward Population-Based Differential Genetic Harmony Search Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Yang , Li Jiacheng , Li Lei
Published: January 2022

To overcome the shortcomings of the harmony search algorithm, such as its slow convergence rate and poor global search ability, a reward population-based differential genetic harmony search algorithm is proposed. In this algorithm, a population is divided into four ordinary sub-populations and one reward sub-population, for each of which the evolution strategy of the differential genetic harmony search is used. After the evolution, the population with the optimal average fitness is combined with the reward population to produce a new reward population. During an experiment, tests were conducted first on determining the value of the harmony memory size (HMS) and the harmony memory consideration rate (HMCR), followed by an analysis of the effect of their values on the performance of the proposed algorithm. Then, six benchmark functions were selected for the experiment, and a comparison was made on the calculation results of the standard harmony memory search algorithm, reward population harmony search algorithm, differential genetic harmony algorithm, and reward population-based differential genetic harmony search algorithm. The result suggests that the reward population-based differential genetic harmony search algorithm has the merits of a strong global search ability, high solving accuracy, and satisfactory stability.
Autonomous Recovery from Spacecraft Plan Failures by Regulatory Repair While Retaining Operability
Authors: Xu Rui , Chen Chao , Lu Siyao , Li Zhaoyu
Published: January 2022

Pre-designed spacecraft plans suffer from failure due to the uncertain space environment. In this case, instead of spending a long time waiting for ground control to upload a feasible plan in order to achieve the mission goals, the spacecraft could repair the failed plan while executing another part of the plan. This paper proposes a method called Isolation and Repair Plan Failures (IRPF) for a spaceship with durable, concurrent, and resource-dependent actions. To enable the spacecraft to perform some actions when a plan fails, IRPF separates all defective actions from executable actions in the pre-designed plan according to causal analysis between the failure state and the established plan. Then, to address the competition between operation and repair during the partial execution of the plan, IRPF sets up several regulatory factors associated with the search process for a solution, and then repairs the broken plan within the limits of these factors. Experiments were carried out in simulations of a satellite and a multi-rover system. The results demonstrate that, compared with replanning and other plan-repair methods, IRPF creates an execution plan more quickly and searches for a recovery plan with fewer explored state nodes in a shorter period of time.
Leisure Agricultural Park Selection for Traveler Groups Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Wu Hsin-Chieh , Lin Yu-Cheng , Chen Tin-Chih Toly
Published: January 2022

With the widespread vaccination against COVID-19, people began to resume regional tourism. Outdoor attractions, such as leisure agricultural parks, are particularly attractive because they are well ventilated and can prevent the spread of COVID-19. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the considerations around choosing a leisure agricultural park are different from usual, and will be affected by uncertainty. Therefore, this research proposes a fuzzy collaborative intelligence (FCI) approach to help select leisure agricultural parks suitable for traveler groups during the COVID-19 pandemic. The proposed FCI approach combines asymmetrically calibrated fuzzy geometric mean (acFGM), fuzzy weighted intersection (FWI), and fuzzy Vise Kriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (fuzzy VIKOR), which is a novel attempt in this field. The effectiveness of the proposed FCI approach has been verified by a case study in Taichung City, Taiwan. The results of the case study showed that during the COVID-19 pandemic, travelers (especially traveler groups) were very willing to go to leisure agricultural parks. In addition, the most important criterion for choosing a suitable leisure agricultural park was the ease of maintaining social distance, while the least important criterion was the distance from a leisure agricultural park. Further, the successful recommendation rate using the proposed methodology was as high as 90%.
Chemical Composition, Fatty Acid Profile, and Lipid Quality Indices in Commercial Ripening of Cow Cheeses from Different Seasons
Authors: Paszczyk Beata , Polak-Śliwińska Magdalena , Zielak-Steciwko Anna E.
Published: January 2022

The aim of the study was to compare and demonstrate whether commercial rennet ripening cheeses available on the market in summer and winter differ in their chemical composition, fatty acid profile, content of cis9trans11 C18:2 (CLA) acid and other trans isomers of C18:1 and C18:2 acid and whether they are characterized by different values of lipid quality assessment indices. The experimental material consisted of rennet ripening of cheeses produced from cow’s milk available in the Polish market. The first batch contained cheeses produced in winter and purchased from the market between May and June. The second batch contained cheeses produced in summer and purchased between November and December. Chemical composition was analyzed by FoodScan apparatus. The gas chromatography (GC) method was used to determine the content of fatty acids. Results obtained in the presented study indicate that the chemical composition, content of fatty acids trans isomers, and lipid quality indices varied between summer and winter cheeses. The summer cheeses were richer sources of MUFA and PUFA compared to winter cheeses. Summer cheeses were also characterized by lower content of SFA, higher content n − 3, lower n − 6/n − 3 ratio, and higher content of DFA. Higher contents of CLA and trans C18:1 and C18:2 were found in summer cheeses.
The Quality of Five Natural, Historical Italian Cheeses Produced in Different Months: Gross Composition, Fat-Soluble Vitamins, Fatty Acids, Total Phenols, Antioxidant Capacity, and Health Index
Authors: Di Trana Adriana , Di Rosa Ambra Rita , Addis Margherita , Fiori Myriam , Di Grigoli Antonino , Morittu Valeria Maria , Spina Anna Antonella , Claps Salvatore , Chiofalo Vincenzo , Licitra Giuseppe , Todaro Massimo
Published: January 2022

Five natural historic cheeses of Southern Italy were investigated—Caciocavallo Palermitano (CP), Casizolu del Montiferru (CdM), Vastedda della Valle del Belìce (VVB), Pecorino Siciliano (PS), and Caprino Nicastrese (CN)—which are produced with raw milk and with traditional techniques and tools, from autochthonous breeds reared under an extensive system. The effects of the month of production on gross composition, MUFA, PUFA, PUFA-ω6, PUFA-ω3, α-tocopherol, retinol, cholesterol, TPC, TEAC, and GHIC were evaluated. In CP, CLA, TPC, and GHIC were higher in April than in February. CdM showed higher values in terms of fat, saturated fatty acids, PUFA-ω3, α-tocopherol, TEAC, and GHIC in May than in February and September, while low values in terms of protein, moisture, and CLA were found. In VVB, MUFA, PUFA-ω6, and α-tocopherol increased in June compared with April; conversely, protein, FRAP, and TEAC were higher in April. In PS, protein, CLA, PUFA, PUFA-ω3, α-tocopherol, and GHIC increased in May compared with January; on the contrary, moisture, NaCl, and TEAC showed high values in January. CN showed higher values in terms of PUFA, PUFA-ω6, PUFA-ω3, TPC, TEAC, and GHIC in April and June compared with January. It is shown that each cheese is unique and closely linked to the production area. Cheeses produced in the spring months showed a high nutritional quality due to the greatest presence of healthy compounds originating from an extensive feeding system.