bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Virtual reality cognitive intervention for heart failure: CORE study protocol
Authors: Jung Miyeon , Apostolova Liana G. , Moser Debra K. , Gradus‐Pizlo Irmina , Gao Sujuan , Rogers Jeff L. , Pressler Susan J.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Heart failure (HF) is a prevalent, serious chronic illness that affects 6.5 million adults in the United States. Among patients with HF, the prevalence of attention impairment is reported to range from 15% to 27%. Although attention is fundamental to human activities including HF self‐care, cognitive interventions for patients with HF that target improvement in attention are scarce. The COgnitive intervention to Restore attention using nature Environment (CORE) study aims to test the preliminary efficacy of the newly developed Nature‐VR, a virtual reality‐based cognitive intervention that is based on the restorative effects of nature. Nature‐VR development was guided by Attention Restoration Theory. The target outcomes are attention, HF self‐care, and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). Our exploratory aims examine the associations between attention and several putative/established HF biomarkers (eg, oxygen saturation, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, apolipoprotein E, dopamine receptor, and dopamine transporter genes) as well as the effect of Nature‐VR on cognitive performance in other domains (ie, global cognition, memory, visuospatial, executive function, and language), cardiac and neurological events, and mortality.

Methods

This single‐blinded, two‐group randomized‐controlled pilot study will enroll 74 participants with HF. The Nature‐VR intervention group will view three‐dimensional nature pictures using a virtual reality headset for 10 minutes per day, 5 days per week for 4 weeks (a total of 200 minutes). The active comparison group, Urban‐VR, will view three‐dimensional urban pictures using a virtual reality headset to match the Nature‐VR intervention in intervention dose and delivery mode, but not in content. After baseline interviews, four follow‐up interviews will be conducted to assess sustained effects of Nature‐VR at 4, 8, 26, and 52 weeks.

Discussion

The importance and novelty of this study consists of using a first‐of‐its kind, immersive virtual reality technology to target attention and in investigating the health outcomes of the Nature‐VR cognitive intervention among patients with HF.
Essential skills of scrotal examination: a step‐by‐step technique
Authors: Please Helen , Savopoulos Vanessa , Biyani Chandra Shekhar
Published: March 2022

Examination of the scrotum is an essential skill for emergency, surgical and general practice (GP) clinicians. However, the examination poses a number of challenges due to its intimate nature and wide range of potential pathologies, resulting in many UK trainees feeling uncomfortable and underconfident in this skill. This article aims to address this issue by training clinicians in a stepwise, structured approach.
Testosterone deficiency, the unrecognised consequence of the opioid epidemic in men
Authors: David Janine , Kirby Mike
Published: March 2022

Testosterone deficiency resulting from chronic opioid use can have a profound effect on health and quality of life, but it often goes unrecognised and untreated. Here the authors review the problem and discuss strategies for management.
The way ahead for the Royal Society of Medicine
Authors: Acton Michele , Gordon Michelle , Kirby Roger
Published: March 2022

The Royal Society of Medicine is developing strategies to ensure it is at the forefront of medical education for healthcare professionals. It plans to embrace the best in technology and the latest thinking on continuing professional development to offer resources of the highest quality to healthcare professionals across multiple disciplines.
‘And so to Pepys’ – the other side of the knife
Authors: Goddard Jonathan Charles
Published: March 2022

Surgery without anaesthetic would be unthinkable these days, but when Samuel Pepys had a bladder stone removed in 1658 it was the norm. Here the author shares some fascinating insights into the life of England's famous diarist and the experience of 17th century surgery.
Bionanoparticles in cancer imaging, diagnosis, and treatment
Authors: Li Yan , Bao Qing , Yang Shuxu , Yang Mingying , Mao Chuanbin
Published: March 2022

Biological molecules such as DNA, proteins, and lipids can be assembled into naturally existing nanoparticles, such as bacterial viruses (also called bacteriophages or phages), plant viruses, nucleic acid nanoparticles (e.g., DNA origami), protein nanoparticles, and exosomes. These bionanoparticles have their own distinct properties (including compositions, structures, shapes, and functions), laying the foundation for their unique applications as probes for cancer imaging, as detectors for cancer diagnosis, or as therapeutics for cancer therapy. To highlight how the distinct properties of different bionanoparticles can be explored in cancer nanotheranostics, this review critically analyzed the use of bionanoparticles in cancer imaging, diagnosis, and treatment. Specifically, for each of these representative bionanoparticles, we describe its unique properties that render it powerful in cancer theranostics compared with synthetic inorganic nanoparticles. We also summarize how to genetically or chemically modify or redesign the bionanoparticles so that they gain new functions desired for cancer theranostics, such as tumor‐seeking or tumor‐destructive capabilities. Finally, we discussed the challenges in this exciting field. The bionanoparticles covered in this review represent different biomolecular assemblies with unique theranostic applications, showcasing the power of bionanoparticles in disease diagnosis and treatment.
Computed tomographic, ultrasonographic, MRI and radiographic findings of a venous malformation with phleboliths in the thoracic limb of a dog
Authors: Kang Kevin , Kirberger Robert M. , Hosgood Giselle , Stander Nerissa
Published: March 2022

An 11‐month‐old entire male Rottweiler was referred for further investigation of raised, soft, compressible, non‐pulsatile, subcutaneous tubular structures along the right antebrachium that had been diagnosed to be a vascular malformation on histopathology of a subcutaneous biopsy. Computed tomographic (CT) with angiography did not reveal an arteriovenous malformation or fistula. Ultrasonography of the limb demonstrated a venous malformation with thrombi and phleboliths. An MRI study of the limb was consistent with a venous malformation with small rounded luminal signal voids that were confirmed to be phleboliths. Radiography at follow‐up demonstrated phleboliths. This is the first report describing the combined CT, ultrasonographic, MRI and radiographic characteristics of venous malformation with phleboliths in a limb of a dog.
Introduction
Authors: Al-Shamsi Humaid O. , Iqbal Faryal , Abu-Gheida Ibrahim H.
Published: March 2022

This chapter serves as a prelude to the book “Cancer in the Arab World”. It outlines general cancer care approaches of included Arab countries. The complications and future perspectives in oncology care services along with the explanation of shortcomings in the respective countries have also been comprehended in this edition.
General Oncology Care in Morocco
Authors: Boutayeb Saber , Majbar Mohammed Anass
Published: March 2022

The current population of Morocco is estimated to be 37 million based on the projection of the United Nations data. The median age in the Moroccan population is young. Around 25% of the population is aged under 14 years. Morocco is currently in an epidemiological transition called “double burden,” with the coexistence of infectious and chronic diseases. The most frequent cancers in men are lung, prostate, bladder, colorectum, and lymphoma. Whereas, for women, the most frequent are breast, cervix, colorectum, thyroid, and ovary. The first Moroccan cancer plan (2010–2019) has given the priority to breast and cervix cancers. Concerning treatments, the classical chemotherapies, hormonal therapies, and the first generation of monoclonal antibodies (Trastuzumab, Rituximab, Bevacizumab, Cetuximab, etc.,) are widely available for the entire population. Two immunotherapies are available in Morocco: Pembrolizumab and Atezolizumab. However, their reimbursement is still conflictual. 3D and new irradiation techniques are available in the major cities. Advanced minimally invasive techniques are now routinely performed for colorectal, liver, gynecologic, thoracic, and urologic cancers. The first surgical robot was acquired by the university hospital in Fez in 2019.
General Oncology Care in the UAE
Authors: Abu-Gheida Ibrahim H. , Nijhawan Neil , Al-Awadhi Aydah , Al-Shamsi Humaid O.
Published: March 2022

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is an essential associate of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Arab world. Having one of the most eminent health care systems, the Oncology care in the UAE consists of distinctive fusion in addition to alliances with public and private healthcare sectors in the country. This chapter features the oncology care in the UAE, features the crucial oncology care aspects that have the potential for growth in the UAE, making the UAE a desirable and attractive destination for medical tourism for oncology treatment.
Colorectal Cancer in the Arab World
Authors: AlZaabi Adhari
Published: March 2022

The recent rapid modernization of life in the Arab region has led to major changes in the lifestyle and attitude of Arab people. This has subsequently resulted in an obvious change in the disease burden profile where the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) exert a huge burden in the region. The main factors that have been attributed to this increase in NCDs are the increased incidence of obesity, physical inactivity, stressful busy life, smoking, and dietary habits. Cancer is among the top NCDs that has increased at an alarming pace in the past ten years in the region. It is projected that there will be a 1.8-fold increase in cancer incidence by 2030 among Arabs. Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is among one of the most common cancers that showed a dramatic increase in annual incidence rate among Arabs. Despite the fact that the figures reported for colorectal cancer among Arabs is lower than that for western countries, the incidence is increasing in this region. Across the cancer continuum, CRC care in the region is up to date as it follows international guidelines from board-certified healthcare providers. The CRC screening system is not well developed and not well accepted by the society due to several religious, cultural, unfamiliarity, and distrust issues. This explains the advanced stage of CRC diagnosis in the region that subsequently leads to unfavorable outcomes. This chapter highlights the incidence of CRC and its clinicopathological parameters with molecular profile and preventive measures in the region.
General Oncology Care in Lebanon
Authors: Mohty Razan , Tfayli Arafat
Published: March 2022

Lebanon is a relatively small country located on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It includes one of the most developed healthcare systems and world-renowned healthcare workers in the region. Cancer cases are steadily increasing in Lebanon reaching 11,589 new cases in 2020. Preventions and screenings programs are conducted to decrease cancer incidence and aim for early cancer detection. Cancer treatment is provided in public and private hospitals and financial coverage is assured through the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) and third-party payers. All Lebanese cancer patients have access to treatment through universal cancer drug coverage by the MOPH. Recently, economic, financial, and political constraints have increased the burden on the healthcare system. Further improvements are needed to keep the healthcare system resilient enough to face these difficulties.
Orientifold Calabi-Yau threefolds with divisor involutions and string landscape
Authors: Altman Ross , Carifio Jonathan , Gao Xin , Nelson Brent D.
Published: March 2022

Abstract

We establish an orientifold Calabi-Yau threefold database for h1,1(X) ≤ 6 by considering non-trivial ℤ2 divisor exchange involutions, using a toric Calabi-Yau database (www.rossealtman.com/tcy). We first determine the topology for each individual divisor (Hodge diamond), then identify and classify the proper involutions which are globally consistent across all disjoint phases of the Kähler cone for each unique geometry. Each of the proper involutions will result in an orientifold Calabi-Yau manifold. Then we clarify all possible fixed loci under the proper involution, thereby determining the locations of different types of O-planes. It is shown that under the proper involutions, one typically ends up with a system of O3/O7-planes, and most of these will further admit naive Type IIB string vacua. The geometries with freely acting involutions are also determined. We further determine the splitting of the Hodge numbers into odd/even parity in the orbifold limit. The final result is a class of orientifold Calabi-Yau threefolds with non-trivial odd class cohomology ($$ {h}_{-}^{1,1} $$

h
−

1
,
1

(X/σ*) ≠ 0).
How should I treat patients with subclinical atrial fibrillation and atrial high-rate episodes? Current evidence and clinical importance
Authors: Kreimer Fabienne , Mügge Andreas , Gotzmann Michael
Published: March 2022

Long-term and continuous ECG monitoring using cardiac implantable electronic devices and insertable cardiac monitors has improved the capability of detecting subclinical atrial fibrillation (AF) and atrial high-rate episodes. Previous studies demonstrated a high prevalence (more than 20%) in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices or insertable cardiac monitors. Subclinical AF and atrial high-rate episodes are often suspected as the cause of prior or potential future ischemic stroke. However, the clinical significance is still uncertain, and the evidence is limited. This review aims to present and discuss the current evidence on the clinical impact of subclinical AF and atrial high-rate episodes. It focuses particularly on the association between the duration of the episodes and major clinical outcomes like thromboembolic events. As subclinical AF and atrial high-rate episodes are presumed to be associated with ischemic strokes, detection will be particularly important in patients with cryptogenic stroke and in high-risk patients for thromboembolism. In this context, it is also interesting whether there is a temporal relationship between the detection of subclinical AF and atrial high-rate episodes and the occurrence of thromboembolic events. In addition, the review will examine the question whether there is a need for a therapy with oral anticoagulation.

Graphical abstract
Impact of preoperative smoking on patients undergoing right hemicolectomies for colon cancer
Authors: Badiani Sarit , Diab Jason , Woodford Evangeline , Natarajan Pragadesh , Berney Christophe R.
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The tobacco epidemic is one of the biggest global public health issues impacting quality of life and surgical outcomes. Although 30% of colon cancers warrant a right hemicolectomy (RH), there is no specific data on the influence of smoking on postoperative complications following RH for cancer. The aim of this study was to determine its effect on post-surgical outcomes.

Methods

Patients who underwent elective RH for colon cancer between 2016 and 2019 were identified from the ACS-NSQIP database. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used with a maximum absolute difference of 0.05 between propensity scores. Primary outcome was to assess the 30-day complication risk profile between smokers and non-smokers. Secondary outcomes included smoking impact on wound and major medico-surgical complication rates, as well as risk of anastomotic leak (AL) using multivariable logistic regression models.

Results

Following PSM, 5652 patients underwent RH for colon cancer with 1,884 (33.3%) identified as smokers. Smokers demonstrated a higher rate of organ space infection (4.1% vs 3.1%, p = 0.034), unplanned return to theatre (4.8% vs 3.7%, p = 0.045) and risk of AL (3.5% vs 2.1%, p = 0.005). Smoking was found to be an independent risk factor for wound complications (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.03–1.71, p = 0.032), primary pulmonary complications (OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.06–2.13, p = 0.024) and AL (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.19–2.31, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

Smokers have increased risk of developing major post-operative complications compared to non-smokers. Clinicians and surgeons must inform smokers of these surgical risks and potential benefit of smoking cessation prior to undergoing major colonic resection.
Robotic stereotactic body radiotherapy for the management of adrenal gland metastases: a bi-institutional analysis
Authors: Ehret Felix , Kaul David , Kufeld Markus , Endt Clara vom , Budach Volker , Senger Carolin , Fürweger Christoph , Haidenberger Alfred , Muacevic Alexander
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Adrenal gland metastases (AGMs) are a common manifestation of metastatic tumor spread, especially in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). In patients with a limited systemic tumor burden, effective treatments for AGMs are needed. Due to varying fractionation schemes and limited reports, short-course treatment results for stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for AGMs are lacking. This work analyzes the outcomes of short-course SBRT for AGMs.

Methods

Patients who underwent robotic SBRT for AGMs with one to five fractions were eligible for analysis.

Results

In total, data from 55 patients with 72 AGMs from two institutions were analyzed. Most AGMs originated from renal cell carcinoma (38%) and NSCLC (35%). The median follow-up was 16.4 months. The median prescription dose and isodose line were 24 Gy and 70%, respectively. Most patients (85%) received SBRT with just one fraction. The median biologically effective dose assuming an α/β ratio of 10 (BED10) was 80.4 Gy. The local control and progression-free survival after 1 and 2 years were 92.9%, 67.8%, and 46.2%, as well as 24.3%, respectively. Thirteen patients (24%) suffered from grade 1 or 2 toxicities. The BED10 showed a significant impact on LC (p < 0.01). Treatments with a BED10 equal to or above the median were associated with a better LC (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Robotic SBRT is an efficient and safe treatment modality for AGM. Treatment-associated side effects are sporadic and manageable. Results suggest short-course SBRT to be a preferable and time-saving treatment option for the management of AGMs if an adequate BED10 can be safely applied.
Verantwortungsvolle Beschaffung im Bereich der erneuerbaren Energien – Realität oder noch ein weiter Weg?
Authors: Kügerl Marie-Theres , Tost Michael
Published: March 2022

Die Bekämpfung des Klimawandels und die Erreichung der Nachhaltigen Entwicklungsziele der Vereinten Nationen machen eine Umstellung unseres Energiesystems weg von fossilen Brennstoffen hin zu erneuerbaren Energien unabdingbar. Mit dieser Energiewende gehen aber auch bedeutende Veränderungen des Rohstoffbedarfs einher. Vor allem die Nachfrage nach Metallen steigt stark an und damit auch Bedenken um mögliche negative Auswirkungen auf Menschen und Umwelt. Das Konzept der verantwortungsvollen Beschaffung hat es sich zum Ziel gesetzt diese Auswirkungen zu minimieren und für eine gerechte Verteilung von Vor- und Nachteilen entlang der Wertschöpfungsketten zu sorgen. Das EU-finanzierte Projekt RE-SOURCING beschäftigt sich mit den Lieferketten von drei Sektoren (erneuerbare Energie, Mobilität und Elektronik), die für eine erfolgreiche und faire Energiewende eine wichtige Rolle spielen. Sektorale State of Play Berichte und Roadmaps sollen Herausforderungen für nachhaltige Wertschöpfungsketten aufzeigen und Lösungen erarbeiten. Die Ergebnisse aus dem Sektor der erneuerbaren Energie zeigen zahlreiche Bereiche, wo rasches und entschiedenes Handeln erforderlich ist, um Menschenrechtsverletzungen und Umweltverschmutzung zu verhindern. Fünf Kernbereiche wurden bestimmt – Kreislaufwirtschaft und reduzierter Ressourcenverbrauch, Pariser Klimaabkommen und ökologische Nachhaltigkeit, soziale Nachhaltigkeit und verantwortungsvolle Produktion, verantwortungsvolle Beschaffung und gleiche Wettbewerbsbedingungen – für die notwendige Maßnahmen und entsprechende Handlungsempfehlungen identifiziert werden.
Post-fire Regeneration Traits of Understorey Shrub Species Modulate Successional Responses to High Severity Fire in Mediterranean Pine Forests
Authors: Vasques A. , Baudena M. , Vallejo V. R. , Kéfi S. , Bautista S. , Santana V. M. , Baeza M. J. , Maia P. , Keizer J. J. , Rietkerk M.
Published: March 2022

Recurrent fires can impede the spontaneous recruitment capacity of pine forests. Empirical studies have suggested that this can lead to a prolonged replacement of pine forest by shrubland, especially if shrub species are pyrophytic. Model-based studies, however, have suggested that post-fire succession of pine forest under current climatic conditions will eventually tend towards the dominance of oaks under high fire severity and recurrence. These previous modelling studies did not address the role of the various post-fire regeneration traits of the understory shrub species. Considering the dichotomy of obligate seeder vs. resprouter species, either obligate or facultative resprouter, we hypothesized that when the shrubs present are post-fire seeders, the oaks steadily occupy the forest, whereas resprouter shrub species might compete with oaks and delay or arrest post-fire succession. To test this hypothesis, we developed a dynamic, cellular automaton model for simulating post-fire successional transitions in pine forests, including shrubs, pines and oaks, and stochastic fires of regular frequency. Our results showed a strong tendency towards oak dominance as final model state and a very reduced role of fire recurrence in this final state, with low yearly acorn input delaying oak dominance. Most relevantly, and in line with our hypothesis, the trend towards oak dominance depended markedly on the two types of shrub species, being delayed by resprouter species, which extended the shrub-dominated succession stage for several centuries. Our simulation results supported the view that the type of understorey species should be a key consideration in post-fire restoration strategies aiming to enhance fire resilience.
A Reference Standard for Analytical Testing of Erythropoietin
Authors: Tu Huiping , Carrick Kevin , Potts Rebecca , Hasselberg Mark , Verdecia Mark , Burns Chris , Cowper Ben , Atouf Fouad
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Erythropoietin (EPO) is a 165 amino acid protein that promotes the proliferation of erythrocytic progenitors. A decrease in endogenous EPO production causes anemia that can be treated with recombinant Human EPO (rHuEPO).

Objective

To ensure the safety and efficacy of the rHuEPO, manufacturers must use analytical methods to demonstrate similarity across batches and between different products. To do this they need reference standards to validate their equipment and methods.

Method

We used peptide mapping, size-exclusion chromatography, glycoprofiling, and isoelectric focusing to analyze a rHuEPO reference standard.

Results

Characterization demonstrates that our rHuEPO reference standard meets the criteria for quality.

Conclusion

The rHuEPO reference standard is fit for purpose as a tool for validating system suitability and methods.
Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) Powder Production and Application in Gluten-Free Bread: Effect of Particle Size
Authors: Tufaro Deborah , Bassoli Angela , Cappa Carola
Published: March 2022

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) has interesting nutritional and technological properties and is naturally gluten-free (GF). This study investigated the physicochemical properties of okra powder obtained by a low-temperature drying process and its impact on GF bread. Its potential synergy with other hydrocolloids (i.e., hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) and Psyllium fibre (Psy)) was also studied. As the importance of powder particle size in food design is well known, whole okra powder (WOP; ≤ 1000 µm) and fine okra powder (FOP; ≤ 250 µm) were produced. Compared to the standard formulation, WOP and FOP doughs required less water to reach the desired dough consistency (200 ± 20 Brabender unit) and generally showed higher stability during mixing. Dough development was affected by HPMC more than okra powder particle size. Breads containing WOP or FOP in combination with HPMC exhibited high specific volume and soft texture, while the combination with Psy resulted in a less-developed, harder and darker bread. The combination with HPMC also guaranteed a longer shelf-life, regardless of okra powder particle size. These results may prove useful for the agri-food industry, as they demonstrate that okra can be used as an innovative natural hydrocolloid.
Scores in Self-Report Questionnaires Assessing Adult ADHD Can Be Influenced by Negative Response Bias but Are Unrelated to Performance on Executive Function and Attention Tests
Authors: Bodenburg Sebastian , Wendiggensen Johanna , Kasten Erich
Published: March 2022

Self-report questionnaires are in widespread use in the assessment of adults with suspected attention-deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Notwithstanding the high degree of validity, these questionnaires are considered to possess, their stand-alone use in assessment for adult ADHD may result in false-positive diagnoses due to the risk of negative response bias. Most of the self-report questionnaires in typical use are based on the diagnostic systems DSM-5 or ICD-10. From a neuropsychological point of view, however, testing of various executive function abilities and attentional performance is important in the assessment of adult ADHD. The present study (N = 211) found no evidence linking executive function (working memory and inhibitory processes) and attentional performance (processing speed) to the results of a self-report questionnaire, the ADHS-LE. The number of failures on the three symptom or performance validity tests (SVT/PVT) used provided the sole, and significant, explanation for the response behavior reported on the ADHS-LE. Of these three SVT/PVTs (the German version of the Structured Inventory of Malingered Symptomatology, SIMS, the reliable digit span, and the standard deviation of simple reaction time), only the SIMS was found to be a significant predictor variable. In the clinical context of this study, 32.6% of subjects produced at least one invalid SVT/PVT result. The use of a more conservative criterion—failure on at least two of the three SVT/PVTs deemed to be feigning ADHD—reduced the proportion of participants generating invalid values to 5%.
Temporal Stability of Seagrass Extent, Leaf Area, and Carbon Storage in St. Joseph Bay, Florida: a Semi-automated Remote Sensing Analysis
Authors: Lebrasse Marie Cindy , Schaeffer Blake A. , Coffer Megan M. , Whitman Peter J. , Zimmerman Richard C. , Hill Victoria J. , Islam Kazi A. , Li Jiang , Osburn Christopher L.
Published: March 2022

Seagrasses are globally recognized for their contribution to blue carbon sequestration. However, accurate quantification of their carbon storage capacity remains uncertain due, in part, to an incomplete inventory of global seagrass extent and assessment of its temporal variability. Furthermore, seagrasses are undergoing significant decline globally, which highlights the urgent need to develop change detection techniques applicable to both the scale of loss and the spatial complexity of coastal environments. This study applied a deep learning algorithm to a 30-year time series of Landsat 5 through 8 imagery to quantify seagrass extent, leaf area index (LAI), and belowground organic carbon (BGC) in St. Joseph Bay, Florida, between 1990 and 2020. Consistent with previous field-based observations regarding stability of seagrass extent throughout St. Joseph Bay, there was no temporal trend in seagrass extent (23 ± 3 km2,τ= 0.09,p = 0.59,n = 31), LAI (1.6 ± 0.2,τ= -0.13,p = 0.42,n = 31), or BGC (165 ± 19 g C m−2,τ= - 0.01,p = 0.1,n = 31) over the 30-year study period. There were, however, six brief declines in seagrass extent between the years 2004 and 2019 following tropical cyclones, from which seagrasses recovered rapidly. Fine-scale interannual variability in seagrass extent, LAI, and BGC was unrelated to sea surface temperature or to climate variability associated with the El Niño-Southern Oscillation or the North Atlantic Oscillation. Although our temporal assessment showed that seagrass and its belowground carbon were stable in St. Joseph Bay from 1990 to 2020, forecasts suggest that environmental and climate pressures are ongoing, which highlights the importance of the method and time series presented here as a valuable tool to quantify decadal-scale variability in seagrass dynamics. Perhaps more importantly, our results can serve as a baseline against which we can monitor future change in seagrass communities and their blue carbon.
Formation of B- and M-group aflatoxins and precursors by Aspergillus flavus on maize and its implication for food safety
Authors: Schamann Alexandra , Schmidt-Heydt Markus , Geisen Rolf , Kulling Sabine E. , Soukup Sebastian T.
Published: March 2022

Aflatoxins count to the most toxic known mycotoxins and are a threat to food safety especially in regions with a warm and humid climate. Contaminated food reaches consumers globally due to international trade, leading to stringent regulatory limits of aflatoxins in food. While the formation of aflatoxin (AF) B1 by the filamentous fungus Aspergillus flavus is well investigated, less is known about the formation kinetics of its precursors and further aflatoxins. In this study, autoclaved maize kernels were inoculated with A. flavus and incubated at 25 °C for up to 10 days. Aflatoxins and precursors were analyzed by a validated UHPLC-MS method. Additional to AFB1 and AFB2, AFM1 and AFM2 were detected, confirming the ability of the formation of M-group aflatoxins on cereals by A. flavus. The measured relative levels of AFB2, AFM1, and AFM2 on maize compared to the level of AFB1 (mean of days 5, 7, and 10 of incubation) were 3.3%, 1.5%, and 0.2%, respectively. The occurrence and kinetics of the measured aflatoxins and their precursors sterigmatocystin, O-methylsterigmatocystin, 11-hydroxy-O-methylsterigmatocystin, aspertoxin, and 11-hydroxyaspertoxin (group 1) as well as of dihydrosterigmatocystin and dihydro-O-methylsterigmatocystin (group 2) supported the so far postulated biosynthetic pathway. Remarkable high levels of O-methylsterigmatocystin and aspertoxin (17.4% and 4.9% compared to AFB1) were found, raising the question about the toxicological relevance of these intermediates. In conclusion, based on the study results, the monitoring of O-methylsterigmatocystin and aspertoxin as well as M-group aflatoxins in food is recommended.
Individual Differences in Dispositional Mindfulness Predict Attentional Networks and Vigilance Performance
Authors: Cásedas Luis , Cebolla Ausiàs , Lupiáñez Juan
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Research addressing the relationship between dispositional mindfulness and objective attention performance remains inconclusive, partly because previous studies used sample sizes possibly leading to underpowered designs. Here, we examined this relationship in a large sample using the ANTI-Vea: a novel cognitive-behavioral task that simultaneously assesses the classic attentional networks—phasic alertness, orienting, executive control—and both the executive and arousal components of vigilance.

Methods

Two hundred nineteen meditation-naïve participants completed the study. Correlational analyses using Kendall’s Tau were performed between FFMQ scores and ANTI-Vea outcomes. Additional subsidiary correlations were performed between the FFMQ and two self-report measures assessing subjective attentional control and mind-wandering. Benjamini-Hochberg was applied to control de type I error rate. Internal consistency reliability indices were estimated for all measures used to aid the interpretation of the correlational results.

Results

Higher non-reactivity predicted overall faster reaction times and higher accuracy in attentional networks trials. Higher non-reactivity, as well as higher FFMQ total score, predicted faster reaction time and fewer lapses in arousal vigilance trials, the latter also being negatively associated with describe scores. The magnitude of the correlations ranged from τb = .103 to τb = .119. We found no association between FFMQ scores and executive control or executive vigilance.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that dispositional mindfulness is linked to improved global attentional and arousal vigilance performance, being non-reactivity to inner experience the key facet driving the association. The absence of association to executive processes is discussed based on the high cognitive demands of the ANTI-Vea task.

Pretrial Registration

Open Science Framework, https://osf.io/gb6c7
Basic physiology of Pseudomonas aeruginosa contacted with carbon nanocomposites
Authors: Augustyniak Adrian , Dubrowska Kamila , Jabłońska Joanna , Cendrowski Krzysztof , Wróbel Rafał J. , Piz Mateusz , Filipek Elżbieta , Rakoczy Rafał
Published: March 2022

Experiments describing properties of nanomaterials on bacteria are frequently limited to the disk diffusion method or other end-point methods indicating viability or survival rate in plate count assay. Such experimental design does not show the dynamic changes in bacterial physiology, mainly when performed on reference microorganisms (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus). Testing other microorganisms, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, could provide novel insights into the microbial response to nanomaterials. Therefore, we aimed to test selected carbon nanomaterials and their components in a series of experiments describing the basic physiology of P. aeruginosa. Concentrations ranging from 15.625 to 1000 µg/mL were tested. The optical density of cultures, pigment production, respiration, growth curve analysis, and biofilming were tested. The results confirmed variability in the response of P. aeruginosa to tested nanostructures, depending on their concentration. The co-incubation with the nanostructures (in concentration 125 µg/mL) could inhibit the population growth (in most cases) or promote it in the case of graphene oxide. Furthermore, a specific concentration of a given nanomaterial could cause contradictory effects leading to stimulation or inhibition of pigmentation, an optical density of the cultures, or biofilm formation. We have found that particularly nanomaterials containing TiO2 could induce pigmentation in P. aeruginosa, which indicates the possibility of increased virulence. On the other hand, nanocomposites containing cobalt nanoparticles had the highest anti-bacterial potential when cobalt was displayed on the surface. Our approach revealed changes in respiration and growth dynamics that can be used to search for nanomaterials’ application in biotechnology.
Evolution of the Automatic Rhodopsin Modeling (ARM) Protocol
Authors: Pedraza-González Laura , Barneschi Leonardo , Padula Daniele , De Vico Luca , Olivucci Massimo
Published: March 2022

In recent years, photoactive proteins such as rhodopsins have become a common target for cutting-edge research in the field of optogenetics. Alongside wet-lab research, computational methods are also developing rapidly to provide the necessary tools to analyze and rationalize experimental results and, most of all, drive the design of novel systems. The Automatic Rhodopsin Modeling (ARM) protocol is focused on providing exactly the necessary computational tools to study rhodopsins, those being either natural or resulting from mutations. The code has evolved along the years to finally provide results that are reproducible by any user, accurate and reliable so as to replicate experimental trends. Furthermore, the code is efficient in terms of necessary computing resources and time, and scalable in terms of both number of concurrent calculations as well as features. In this review, we will show how the code underlying ARM achieved each of these properties.
Biochar for the removal of contaminants from soil and water: a review
Authors: Qiu Muqing , Liu Lijie , Ling Qian , Cai Yawen , Yu Shujun , Wang Shuqin , Fu Dong , Hu Baowei , Wang Xiangke
Published: March 2022

Biochar shows significant potential to serve as a globally applicable material to remediate water and soil owing to the extensive availability of feedstocks and conducive physio-chemical surface characteristics. This review aims to highlight biochar production technologies, characteristics of biochar, and the latest advancements in immobilizing and eliminating heavy metal ions and organic pollutants in soil and water. Pyrolysis temperature, heat transfer rate, residence time, and type of feedstock are critical influential parameters. Biochar’s efficacy in managing contaminants relies on the pore size distribution, surface groups, and ion-exchange capacity. The molecular composition and physical architecture of biochar may be crucial when practically applied to water and soil. In general, biochar produced at relatively high pyrolysis temperatures can effectively manage organic pollutants via increasing surface area, hydrophobicity and microporosity. Biochar generated at lower temperatures is deemed to be more suitable for removing polar organic and inorganic pollutants through oxygen-containing functional groups, precipitation and electrostatic attraction. This review also presents the existing obstacles and future research direction related to biochar-based materials in immobilizing organic contaminants and heavy metal ions in effluents and soil.

Graphical Abstract
Large Deviations for a Slow–Fast System with Jump-Diffusion Processes
Authors: Yang Xiaoyu , Xu Yong , Jiao Zhe
Published: March 2022

A slow–fast system with jump-diffusion processes is considered. The large deviations are established via the weak convergence approach, which is based on the variational representations for functional of Poisson random measure and Brownian motion. We present an example to verify that the level of the asset price satisfies large deviations with small volatility.
Abstract Algebra
Authors: Lawrence John W. , Zorzitto Frank A.
Published: March 2022

Through this book, upper undergraduate mathematics majors will master a challenging yet rewarding subject, and approach advanced studies in algebra, number theory and geometry with confidence. Groups, rings and fields are covered in depth with a strong emphasis on irreducible polynomials, a fresh approach to modules and linear algebra, a fresh take on Gröbner theory, and a group theoretic treatment of Rejewski's deciphering of the Enigma machine. It includes a detailed treatment of the basics on finite groups, including Sylow theory and the structure of finite abelian groups. Galois theory and its applications to polynomial equations and geometric constructions are treated in depth. Those interested in computations will appreciate the novel treatment of division algorithms. This rigorous text 'gets to the point', focusing on concisely demonstrating the concept at hand, taking a 'definitions first, examples next' approach. Exercises reinforce the main ideas of the text and encourage students' creativity.
Role of Community Health Volunteers Since the 2015 Nepal Earthquakes: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Bhattarai Hari Krishna , Hung Kevin Kei Ching , MacDermot Makiko Kato , Hubloue Ives , Barone-Adesi Francesco , Ragazzoni Luca , Della Corte Francesco , Acharya Richa , Graham Colin A.
Published: March 2022

Objective:

Nepal female community health volunteers (FCHVs) were the first available health personnel in communities during the 2015 Nepal earthquakes. This study explored the facilitating factors and barriers of the FCHVs during health emergencies.

Methods:

In-depth interviews with 24 FCHVs and 4 health managers from 2 districts in Nepal (Gorkha and Sindhupalchowk) were conducted using semi-structured interview guides. The qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis methods.

Results:

FCHVs were the first responders to provide services after the earthquakes and were well accepted by the local communities. Different models of supervision existed, and differences in the workload and remuneration offered to FCHVs were described. A wide range of disaster-related knowledge and skills were required by FCHVs, and lack of prior training was an issue for some respondents. Furthermore, lack of access to adequate medical supplies was a major barrier for FCHVs in the 2015 earthquakes. The 5 identified themes were discussed.

Conclusion:

Providing regular disaster response training for FCHVs and strong leadership from the public sector with sustained investments will be essential for increasing the capacities of community health workforces to prepare for and reduce the impacts of future health emergencies in resource-poor settings.
COVID-19: autoimmunity, multisystemic inflammation and autoimmune rheumatic patients
Authors: Szekanecz Zoltán , Balog Attila , Constantin Tamás , Czirják László , Géher Pál , Kovács László , Kumánovics Gábor , Nagy György , Rákóczi Éva , Szamosi Szilvia , Szűcs Gabriella , Vályi-Nagy István
Published: March 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with autoimmunity and systemic inflammation. Patients with autoimmune rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease (RMD) may be at high risk for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. In this review, based on evidence from the literature, as well as international scientific recommendations, we review the relationships between COVID-19, autoimmunity and patients with autoimmune RMDs, as well as the basics of a multisystemic inflammatory syndrome associated with COVID-19. We discuss the repurposing of pharmaceutics used to treat RMDs, the principles for the treatment of patients with autoimmune RMDs during the pandemic and the main aspects of vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 in autoimmune RMD patients.
Social protection expenditure and redistribution in the Western Balkans
Authors: Mustafa Artan , Gerovska-Mitev Maja
Published: March 2022

This paper analyses social protection expenditure, its financing and its correlation with redistribution effects in the European Union (EU) candidate and potential candidate countries from the Western Balkans – Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Kosovo and Serbia. Although social expenditure in the Western Balkans varies between countries in terms of the extent and functions, in general, it is growing and concentrates on the elderly population. The expenditure is strongly redistributive towards old age, but is less efficient in reducing extensive child and working-age poverty. From an intergenerational perspective, despite various recent improvements, it remains significantly unbalanced compared to the EU. The expenditure reflects the design of social rights that have been shaped by the legacy of socialism and war, local politics, and international organisations perhaps more than by the impact of economic resources and aging.
Study of a rough-wall turbulent boundary layer under pressure gradient
Authors: Ghanadi F. , Djenidi L.
Published: March 2022

The behaviour of a fully rough-wall turbulent boundary layer subjected to different pressure gradients is investigated for different Reynolds numbers using hot-wire measurements. Mean velocity and velocity root-mean-square measurements indicate that the boundary layer remains in a self-preserving state regardless of the pressure gradient. However, different pressure gradients lead to different self-preservation states, as suggested by the lack of collapse of the velocity profile between the pressure gradient cases. The results also indicate that the roughness effect is more important than the pressure gradient; particularly, the closer the wall, the more dominant the roughness effect over the pressure gradient effect on the boundary layer. Finally, both spectral and proper orthogonal decomposition analyses applied to the hot-wire measurements indicate that the pressure gradient impacts predominantly the large-scale motion.
Multicentennial to millennial–scale changes in the East Asian summer monsoon during Greenland interstadial 25
Authors: Dong Jinguo , Shen Chuan-Chou , Wang Yi , Hu Hsun-Ming , Banerjee Yogaraj , Huang Wei
Published: March 2022

A multidecadal-resolved stalagmite δ18O record from two nearby caves, Lianhua and Dragon, in Shanxi Province, northern China, characterizes the detailed East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) intensity changes at 114.6–108.3 ka during Marine Oxygen Isotope Stage 5d. Our record shows an intensification of the EASM at 114.6–109.5 ka, followed by a rapid weakening at 109.5–108.4 ka. The millennial-scale strong monsoonal event appears to be correlated with the warm Greenland interstadial 25 (GI 25), whereas the weak monsoonal event is related to the cold Greenland stadial 25 within dating errors. The GI 25 monsoonal event registered in our record is also documented in various published time series from different regions of China. The lines of evidence indicate that this event occurred over the entirety of monsoonal China and was also broadly antiphase, similar to the corresponding event on a millennial time scale in the South American monsoon territory. In our record, one 700 yr weak monsoon event at 110.7+0.6−0.5 to 110.0+0.8−0.4 ka divides the GI 25 into three substages. These multicentennial to millennial–scale monsoon events correspond to two warm periods and an intervening cold interval for the intra-interstadial climate oscillations within GI 25, thus supporting a persistent coupling of the high- and low-latitude climate systems over the last glacial period.
FAT-based robust adaptive controller design for electrically direct-driven robots using Phillips q-Bernstein operators
Authors: Izadbakhsh Alireza , Kalat Ali Akbarzadeh , Nikdel Nazila
Published: March 2022

This article proposes a robust and adaptive controller for industrial robot arms with multiple degrees of freedom without the need for velocity measurement. Many of the controllers designed for manipulators are model-based and require detailed knowledge of the system model. In contrast to these methods, this paper proposes a model-free controller using the Philips q-Bernstein operator as universal approximator. The designed controller can approximate uncertainties including external disturbances and unmodeled dynamics based on its universal approximation capability. Besides, most of the controllers revealed for robot arms are torque-based, which is not a realistic presumption from a practical point of view. In the proposed control method, the voltage applied to the actuator is considered as the control signal. However, unlike many voltage-based methods, the need to know the exact models of the system and the actuator has been eliminated in the presented method. Also, adaptive rules are extracted during the Lyapunov analysis to ensure system stability. Finally, to analyze the performance of the presented controller, this method is simulated for an industrial robot arm, and the results are analyzed. The proposed methodology is also compared to those of a strong state-of-the-art approximator, the Chebyshev neural network.