bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capacity and turbo equalization for truncated root‐raise cosine‐pulsed modulation systems in the presence of timing offset
Authors: Chiang Wei‐I , Hung Fu‐Chuan , Chung Char‐Dir
Published: April 2022

In communication systems, in order to increase spectrum efficiency, pulses with limited bandwidth that meet the Nyquist zero intersymbol interference criterion are usually used for transmission. However, the truncated pulse is conducive to the realization of the partial response signal transmission system. The actual method is to cut the finite bandwidth pulse into a finite and sufficient length in the time domain. This will make the overall impulse response no longer meet the Nyquist criterion and at the receiving end will produce intentional intersymbol interference, so demodulation requires complex sequence detection. In this paper, we consider the truncated root raised cosine modulation system with timing offset and compare the channel capacity of partial response signals with different parameters. At the receiving end, demodulation uses the turbo equalization with different equalization methods to eliminate the intersymbol interference of partial response signals. Among them, we use fewer symbol paths in the BCJR algorithm to calculate the maximum posterior probability to construct low‐complexity equalization and compare according to the computational complexity and performance results of different equalizations.
Population genomics and phylogeography of Colletes gigas, a wild bee specialized on winter flowering plants
Authors: Su Tianjuan , He Bo , Zhao Fang , Jiang Kai , Lin Gonghua , Huang Zuhao
Published: April 2022

Diet specialization may affect the population genetic structure of pollinators by reducing gene flow and driving genetic differentiation, especially in pollen‐specialist bees. Colletes gigas is a pollen‐specialist pollinator of Camellia oleifera, one of the most important staple oil crops in China. Ca. oleifera blooms in cold climates and contains special compounds that make it an unusable pollen source to other pollinators. Thus, C. gigas undoubtedly plays a key role as the main pollinator of Ca. oleifera, with biological and economic significance. Here, we use a population genomic approach to analyze the roles of geography and climate on the genetic structure, genetic diversity, and demographic history of C. gigas. A total of 1,035,407 SNPs were identified from a 582.77 Gb dataset. Clustering and phylogenetic analyses revealed a marked genetic structure, with individuals grouped into nine local clusters. A significant isolation by distance was detected by both the Mantel test (R = .866, p = .008) and linear regression (R2 = .616, p < .001). Precipitation and sunshine duration were positively and significantly (R ≥ .765, p ≤ .016) correlated with observed heterozygosity (Ho) and expected heterozygosity (He). These results showed that C. gigas populations had a distinct phylogeographic pattern determined by geographical distance and environmental factors (precipitation and sunshine duration). In addition, an analysis of paleogeographic dynamics indicated that C. gigas populations exhibited patterns of glacial expansion and interglacial contraction, likely resulting from post‐glacial habitat contraction and fragmentation. Our results indicated that the peculiar phylogeographic patterns in C. gigas populations may be related to their specialization under long‐term adaptation to host plants. This work improves our understanding of the population genetics in pollen‐specialist bees. The distinct genetic clusters identified in this study should be taken into consideration for the protection and utilization of this specialized crop pollinator.
Effects of inorganic fillers on the performance of the water‐based intumescent fire‐retardant coating
Authors: Nasirzadeh Mohammadreza , Yahyaei Hossein , Mohseni Mohsen
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the influences of filler type and its content on the performance of a water‐based intumescent fire‐retardant coating. Three fillers (vermiculite, celite, and aluminum hydroxide) were added to the intumescent paint formulation. The thermal and fire protective properties were studied with thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), torch test, electrical furnace, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared analysis (FTIR). The results showed that adding fillers into coatings up to 3% could improve the intumescent coating's behavior and increase its endurance against flames. Of the three fillers used, vermiculite showed a better performance in the torch test, attributed to its chemical and physical structure. Vermiculite has low thermal conductivity and is considered an appropriate filler for heat‐insulation. The final back‐plate temperatures in the torch test for the vermiculite‐containing samples were around 100°C–150°C lower than that of other samples. Moreover, vermiculite's addition improved the coating's expansion by 10% compared with the control sample's. The vermiculite sample's char layer morphology showed a uniform cell size distribution, indicating structural robustness. The coating samples successfully transformed polypropylene flammability from highly flammable to V0 level in the UL 94 vertical burning test standard. The results showed that vermiculite could improve intumescent paint's fire resistance and be used as an enhancer in intumescent coating formulations.
Re‐examination of the 1928 Parral, Mexico earthquake (M6.3) using a new multiplatform graphical vectorization and correction software for legacy seismic data
Authors: Corona‐Fernández Raúl Daniel , Santoyo Miguel Ángel
Published: April 2022

Modern analysis of earthquakes depends on digital time series; however, only about 30% of the timespan of recorded seismicity is available in digital format. During the first half of the 20th century, most of the earthquake ground motions in Mexico were recorded by Wiechert mechanical instruments on smoked paper. In this work, we developed and use Tiitba, a new portable multiplatform graphical user interface (GUI) open‐source software coded on python, to vectorize and correct old analogue seismograms. Using this software, we vectorized the 11/1/1928 Parral (M6.3) earthquake seismograms to obtain the constant time‐interval digitized time series for each component and station of the seismogram. Then, we obtained its source focal mechanism using a genetic algorithm methodology. Also, with an auxiliary Tiitba module, we constructed a SEISAN S‐file to relocate the hypocentre of this earthquake. The obtained relocation is about 125 km south of a recently recorded seismic swarm that occurred in 2013, which has a similar focal mechanism to the one that we obtained in this work.
Treatment of a severe distal thoracic and abdominal coarctation with cutting balloon and stent implantation in an infant: From fetal diagnosis to adolescence
Authors: Carbonez Karlien , Kefer Joëlle , Sluysmans Thierry , Moniotte Stephane
Published: April 2022

Background and Aims

Abdominal coarctations are rare. Surgical treatment is difficult and requires re‐interventions to adjust the graft material to patient growth. We report effective treatment by interventional catheterization in an infant with the concern to allow adjustment for growth and prevention of vessel damage.

Methods and Results

After the diagnosis of abdominal coarctation at 27 weeks of gestation, an infant developed hypertension (170/70 mmHg) at 3 months of age despite medical therapy. Angio CT confirmed a 2 mm diameter, 2.3‐cm‐long coarctation of the descending aorta. At 4 months, a dilatation was performed using a 3 mm cutting balloon and a 5 mm Opta® balloon, Cordis®. Two noncovered Palmaz® Genesis™ XD PG1910P stents were required to keep the aortic lumen open. At 15 months, an Adventa™ V12 vascular 12 × 61 mm long covered stent was implanted to exclude an aneurysm which developed between the two stents. At 3 and 9.5 years, the stents were further dilated with a high‐pressure balloon to reach 11 mm aortic diameter with no residual pressure gradient, and normal blood pressure.

Conclusions

The use of cutting balloons and stent implantation is an effective way to relieve severe obstruction in middle aortic syndrome in neonates. The technical issues encountered were the need for a low profile sheath and material to avoid femoral artery damage, and the need to use stents that can be further expanded to adult size.
New substitutions on NS1 protein from influenza A (H1N1) virus: Bioinformatics analyses of Indian strains isolated from 2009 to 2020
Authors: Lubna Syeda , Chinta Suma , Burra Prakruthi , Vedantham Kiranmayi , Ray Sibnath , Bandyopadhyay Debashree
Published: April 2022

Background and Aims

Nonstructural (NS1) protein is mainly involved in virulence and replication of several viruses, including influenza virus A (H1N1); surveillance of the latter started in India in 2009. The objective of this study was to identify the new substitutions in NS1 protein from the influenza virus A (H1N1) pandemic 2009 (pdm09) strain isolated in India.

Methods

The sequences of NS1 proteins from influenza A(H1N1) pdm09 strains isolated in India were obtained from publicly available databases. Multiple sequence alignment and phylogeny analyses were performed to confirm the “consistent substitutions” on NS1 protein from H1N1 (pdm09) Indian strains. Here, “consistent substitutions” were defined as the substitutions observed in all the sequences isolated in a year. Comparative analyses were performed among NS1 Indian sequences from A(H1N1) pdm09, A (H1N1) seasonal and A(H3N2) strains, and from A (H1N1) pdm09 global strains.

Results

Eight substitutions were identified in the NS1 Indian sequence from the A(H1N1) pdm09 strain, two in RBD, five in ED, and one in the linker region. Three new substitutions were reported in this study at NS1 sequence positions 2, 80, and 155, which evolved within 2015–2019 and became “consistent.” These new substitutions were associated with conservative paired substitutions in the alternative domains of the NS1 protein. Three paired substitutions were (i) D2E and E125D, (ii) T80A and A155T, and (iii) E55K and K131E.

Conclusions

This study indicates the continuous evolution of NS1 protein from the influenza A virus. The new substitutions at positions 2 and 80 occurred in the RNA binding and eIF4GI binding domains. The D2E substitution evolved simultaneously with the E125D substitution that involved viral replication. The third new substitution at position 155 occurred in the PI3K binding domain. The possible consequences of these substitutions on host–pathogen interactions are subject to further experimental and computational verification.
Contributions of executive function to spatial thinking in young children
Authors: Garcia Nelcida L. , Dick Anthony Steven , Pruden Shannon M.
Published: April 2022

Identifying factors that contribute to spatial thinking is of great interest given links between spatial thinking and success in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines. Working memory has been found to be predictive of spatial thinking but little research has explored other components of executive function (i.e., inhibition and shifting) in relation to spatial thinking. A total of 131 4‐ to 6‐year‐olds (Mage = 5.06; 53.4% male; 56% Latinx, 18% White, 12% Mixed Race, 5% Asian, and 5% other) were assessed using spatial, executive function, and intelligence tasks. Results show that inhibition, shifting, and working memory are all associated with intrinsic and extrinsic spatial task scores. These results advance developmental theory on spatial thinking and offer a promising route for future interventions in improving spatial ability.

Highlights

In this study, we examine whether there are direct effects of executive function of children's spatial thinking.

Four to six‐year‐old children were assessed using a battery of spatial, executive function, and general intelligence tasks. Results show that the three components of executive function are associated with both intrinsic and extrinsic spatial thinking.

These findings advance developmental theory and provide a basis for future interventions to improve spatial thinking.
The role of MTNR1B polymorphism on circadian rhythm‐related cancer: A UK Biobank cohort study
Authors: Wu Jiafei , Tan Xiao
Published: April 2022

A common G risk allele in the melatonin receptor 1B (MTNR1B, rs10830963) gene has been associated with altered melatonin signaling and secretion. Given that melatonin possesses anticancerogenic properties, we hypothesized that breast and prostate cancer risks vary by rs10830963 genotype. A total of 216 702 participants from the UK Biobank without cancer at baseline (aged 56.4 ± 8.0 years, 50.79% female) were included. Multivariable Cox regression adjusting for known risk factors for breast or prostate cancer was used to estimate the independent effects of the rs10830963 SNP and chronotype on cancer risk. Over a median follow‐up of 8 years, 2367 (2.15% of women) incidences of breast cancer and 2866 (2.69% of men) incidences of prostate cancer were documented in females and males, respectively. rs10830963 genotype is not associated with cancer risk independently (female Ptrend = .103, male Ptrend = .281). A late chronotype is associated with breast cancer risk in females (Ptrend = .014), but not prostate cancer risk in males (Ptrend = .915). Further stratification analysis revealed that the rs10830963 genotype is associated with a breast cancer risk in females with moderate evening chronotype (Ptrend = .001) and late chronotype is associated with breast cancer risk in females who carry rs10830963 G risk allele (Ptrend = .015). Our study suggests that having a late chronotype might increase the risk of breast cancer among females, while the effect of MTNR1B rs10830963 genotype on breast cancer risk is mediated by chronotype.
“We just do it … we are dead already”: Exploring the sexual behaviors of youth living with HIV
Authors: Zgambo Maggie , Arabiat Diana , Ireson Deborah
Published: April 2022

Introduction

This study aims to describe the sexual behaviors of youth living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in Malawi. As a high‐risk population, understanding the contextual factors that shape their sexual behaviors is of particular interest when designing strategies to reduce HIV transmission.

Methods

Semi‐structured qualitative interviews were used to collect information about sexual behaviors from 22 youth (12 females and 10 males) living with HIV aged from 15 to 24 years. All participants were recruited from a specialized HIV clinic in Malawi. Thematic analysis was applied to identify current themes.

Results

The majority of participants were sexually active. Engaging in sexual behaviors was largely related to social processes identified in three main themes: (1) Risk‐taking in pursuit of confidence and maturity; (2) A lack of voice in decision making concerning practising safe sex; (3) Perceived barriers to safe sex practice such as poverty, dropping out of school, and personal perspectives about transmitting HIV to others.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that prevention strategies targeting youth social and economic vulnerabilities to social influences are needed to enhance their personal and social skills. We suggest nurturing cultural and religious ceremonies and involving elders to equip youth with skills and knowledge for the prevention of HIV transmission.
Inside Cover
Authors: Zhang Mingchao , Tao Yue , Chang Qing , Wang Kaixuan , Chu Tianqing , Ying Weihai
Published: April 2022

The skin’s green autofluorescence (AF) at the Dorsal Centremetacarpus of lung cancer patients was significantly higher than that of healthy subjects and pulmonary infection patients. Using the AF intensity as the variable, ROC analyses showed that the AUC for differentiating the lung cancer patients and the pulmonary infection patients was 0.87, suggesting that the skin’s AF may become a novel biomarker for non‐invasive and economical diagnosis of lung cancer.

Further details can be found in the article by Mingchao Zhang, Yue Tao, Qing Chang, Kaixuan Wang, Tianqing Chu, and Weihai Ying (e202100389)

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Calcium Citrate Versus Calcium Carbonate in the Management of Chronic Hypoparathyroidism: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Crossover Clinical Trial
Authors: Naciu Anda Mihaela , Tabacco Gaia , Bilezikian John P , Santonati Assunta , Bosco Daniela , Incognito Giosuè Giordano , Gaspa Gianluigi , Manfrini Silvia , Falchetti Alberto , Trimboli Pierpaolo , Mazziotti Gherardo , Napoli Nicola , Sanson Gianfranco , Cesareo Roberto , Vescini Fabio , Palermo Andrea
Published: April 2022

In hypoparathyroidism (HypoPT), calcium supplementation is virtually always required, although the disease is likely to be associated with an increased risk of nephrolithiasis. The use of calcium citrate (Ca-Cit) theoretically could have a positive impact on the nephrolithiasis risk because citrate salts are used to reduce this risk. Our objective was to evaluate the potential therapeutic advantage of Ca-Cit in comparison with calcium carbonate (CaCO3) in HypoPT, on nephrolithiasis risk factors, as well as to their ability to maintain desirable serum calcium levels. We also evaluated these preparations on quality of life (QOL). This randomized, double-blind, crossover trial recruited 24 adults with postsurgical chronic hypoparathyroidism at Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome. Participants were randomized 1:1 to Ca-Cit or CaCO3 for 1 month and then crossed over to the other treatment for another month. The primary outcomes were changes in albumin-adjusted serum calcium and in ion activity product of calcium oxalate levels (AP[CaOx] index). Secondary efficacy outcomes included changes in SF-36 survey score, fatigue score, constipation, and adverse events. No difference in terms of AP(CaOx) index was observed between the two groups. However, Ca-Cit was associated with a significant reduction in the oxalate/creatinine ratio compared with CaCO3 (−2.46 mmol/mol [SD 11.93] versus 7.42 mmol/mol [SD 17.63], p = 0.029). Serum calcium and phosphorus concentration was not different between the two calcium preparations. Ca-Cit was associated with less constipation (p = 0.047). No difference was found in QOL scores. Although Ca-Cit did not modify the AP(CaOx) index when compared with CaCO3, it was associated with a reduction in urinary oxalate excretion that could have a potential beneficial effect on nephrolithiasis risk. These results are likely to have clinical implications in HypoPT, particularly those who do not tolerate CaCO3 and those affected by nephrolithiasis. A longer-term experience is needed to confirm these findings. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Molecular insight into the π‐stacking interactions of human ovarian cancer PARP‐1 with its small‐molecule inhibitors and rational design of aromatic amino acid‐rich peptides to target PARP‐1 based on the π‐stacking network
Authors: Pan Chunxia , Chen Lei , Zhang Xinxin , Zhang Depu , Song Quqing , Peng Jingwei , Li Qingshui
Published: April 2022

Human poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP‐1) is involved in DNA strand break repair and has been recognized as a promising druggable target for ovarian cancer. The active site of PARP‐1 is π electron‐rich, which contains at least 12 aromatic amino aid residues in its first‐ and second‐shell regions, and can form effective π‐stacking interactions with its natural substrates and inhibitor ligands. In this study, the intermolecular interactions between the 12 PARP‐1 aromatic residues and 16 approved/clinical/preclinical small‐molecule inhibitors were systematically profiled using quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) analyses and dispersion‐corrected density functional theory (DFT) calculations. It was found that the aromatic residues contribute ~50% affinity to the global binding energy of PARP‐1/inhibitor complexes, in which the four residues (His862, Tyr889, Tyr896 and Tyr907) play a primary role in π‐stacking interactions with most inhibitor ligands. Based on the harvested knowledge, we attempted to perform the rational design of aromatic amino acid‐rich (AAAr) peptides to target PARP‐1 active site by using peptide docking, affinity scoring, and QM/MM analyses. These peptides are only composed of four aromatic amino acids, namely phenylalanine (Phe), tyrosine (Tyr), tryptophan (Trp) and histidine (His), and their π‐stacking contribution is improved to ~60% from the ~50% of small‐molecule inhibitors, although their global binding energy is moderately lower than these inhibitors. Three designed AAAr peptides (WYHY, WYYH and WFYY) with high‐affinity scores were determined as potent PARP‐1 targeted agents; they exhibited high inhibitory activities and are roughly comparable with that of the sophisticated PARP‐1 inhibitor drug Olaparib, suggesting that these designed peptides, as expected, can effectively target PARP‐1 with a satisfactory inhibitory profile. Molecular modeling revealed a number of face‐to‐face, parallel‐displaced, and T‐shaped π‐stacking interactions at PARP‐1/peptide complex interface, which co‐define an intense π‐stacking network and confer both stability and specificity for the complex recognition and association.
Mental models about heredity among immigrant Latinx adults with limited education from Mexico and Central America
Authors: Sandberg Joanne C. , Trejo Grisel , Howard Timothy D. , Moore DaKysha , Arcury Thomas A. , Quandt Sara A. , Kortenaar Paul , Ip Edward H.
Published: April 2022

An understanding of genetics is becoming increasingly relevant to receiving medical care. It is important for health care providers and educators, including genetic counselors, to understand patients’ perceptions about trait transmission and their interpretation of terms used in biomedicine. Knowledge about the patient perspective about trait transmission is important when health care providers are not fluent in the patient's language. Sixty Latinx immigrant adults (30 men and 30 women) who were born in Mexico or Central America (MCA) and living in North Carolina were interviewed about their heredity beliefs. By design, most participants had limited education. Eight percent had a least a high school education; 45% had less than a seventh grade education. Semi‐structured, in‐depth interviews were conducted to examine how participants think and discuss trait transmission. The translated transcripts were systematically analyzed using a case‐based approach, supplemented by theme‐based coding. Five lay mental models of heredity were identified that varied in terms of involvement of genes. Four of the five heredity mental models encompass genes; four out of five mental models do not link DNA to heredity. The centrality of blood, whether used metaphorically or literally, varies widely across the models. One model references God and depicts that heredity involves blood and/or genes, but not DNA. The mental models of heredity for most adult immigrants with limited education do not include DNA. Trait transmission by blood appears to have a more prominent role in lay mental models held by Mexicans than Central Americans. Increased patient knowledge about genetics can facilitate shared decision‐making as genetics becomes increasingly relevant to medical care. Efforts to educate people can be most effective when we first understand the layperson's conceptions or mental models. Health care providers and educators should be aware that MCA adults with limited formal education hold diverse mental models about heredity.
Counting paths, cycles, and blow‐ups in planar graphs
Authors: Cox Christopher , Martin Ryan R.
Published: April 2022

For a planar graph , let denote the maximum number of copies of in an ‐vertex planar graph. In this paper, we prove that , , , and , where is the 1‐subdivision of . In addition, we obtain significantly improved upper bounds on and for . For a wide class of graphs , the key technique developed in this paper allows us to bound in terms of an optimization problem over weighted graphs.
Epigenetic regulation of T cells by Polycomb group proteins
Authors: Melo Guilherme A , Calôba Carolina , Brum Gabrielle , Passos Thaís O , Martinez Gustavo J , Pereira Renata M
Published: April 2022

T cells are critical for pathogen elimination, tumor surveillance, and immunoregulation. The development, activation, and differentiation of CD8 and CD4 T lymphocytes are a set of complex and dynamically regulated events that require epigenetic control. The Polycomb group (PcG) proteins are a family of diverse and evolutionarily conserved epigenetic modulators fundamentally involved in several mechanisms of gene regulation. PcG proteins can assemble into distinct repressor complexes, the two most understood being the Polycomb Repressor Complex (PRC)1 and PRC2, which control chromatin structure mainly through posttranslational modifications of histones. In this review, we will summarize the most recent findings regarding the diverse roles performed by PcG proteins in T cell biology. We will focus on PRC1 and PRC2 contribution to the regulation of T cell development in the thymus, CD4 T cell differentiation in helper or regulatory phenotypes and CD8 T cell fate commitment in the context of infections and cancer, highlighting the known mechanisms and knowledge gaps that still need to be addressed.
The burnout experiences of counselors in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico: A qualitative study
Authors: Carrola Paul A. , Lopez Anna , Lugo Munoz Elizabeth , Gomez Monica , Pereira Steve
Published: April 2022

This study explored the experiences of 22 mental health counselors in Ciudad Juárez using qualitative analysis. Specific foci were their experiences related to burnout and the drug violence crisis; and interventions they used to cope with these experiences. The results highlighted the prevalence of trauma related services they provide, the lack of formal supervision they receive and need for increased training opportunities and overall support. Recommendations for binational collaborations and future research are discussed.
CXCR4 antagonist AMD3100 enhances therapeutic efficacy of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization in rats with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Lei Hong‐Wei , Huang Bi‐Run , Cai Jie , Li Cheng‐Ming , Shang Chun‐Bo , Liao Zhi‐Yang , Wan Zheng‐Dong
Published: April 2022

This study aims to discover the therapeutic effect of chemokine (CXC motif) receptor 4 (CXCR4) antagonist AMD3100 combined with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) in a rat model with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). An orthotopic model of HCC was established and treated with TACE (doxorubicin‐lipiodol emulsion) with or without AMD3100. The tumor volume was measured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Histopathological changes were detected by hematoxylin–eosin (HE) staining. HCC cell apoptosis was assessed by terminal deoxyribonucleotidyl transferase (TdT)‐mediated biotin‐16‐dUTP nick‐end labeling (TUNEL) staining. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of CD34, hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF‐1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and Ki67. Gene and protein expressions were quantified by quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and western blotting, respectively. Both TACE and AMD3100 reduced the tumor volume in orthotopic rat model of HCC with the decreased CXCR4 expression in tumor tissues, and the combination had better effect. However, TACE increased the microvessel density (MVD) in HCC tissues of rats, while AMD3100 treatment reduced MVD in HCC tissues. AMD3100 reduced the TACE induced MVD in HCC tissues with the reduction of HIF‐1α and VEGF expression. Either AMD3100 or TACE could promote HCC cell apoptosis accompanying by decreased cell proliferation, and their combined use had better therapeutic effects. CXCR4 antagonist AMD3100 enhance therapeutic efficacy of TACE in rats with HCC via promoting the HCC cell apoptosis, reducing cell proliferation, and inhibiting MVD, thus reducing tumor volume.
Communal land conservation in northern Ethiopia: The relationship between urban area access and individual and social norms
Authors: Oniki Shunji , Berhe Melaku , Negash Teklay , Etsay Haftu
Published: April 2022

SubSaharan Africa has experienced rapid market economy development in urban areas and in terms of road network systems connecting urban and rural areas. As the access to urban areas improves, the influence of economic development may alter local norms regarding the conservation of communal lands in rural areas. This study investigates how access from rural to urban areas affects individual and social norms regarding communal land conservation. We used interview data from 110 village leaders and 660 farmers' community group leaders in northern Ethiopia. Individual moral norms were estimated based on the respondents' willingness to participate in communal tree planting on communal lands as a means of halting and reversing land degradation. Social norms were estimated based on the proportion of exclosure in communal areas and the number of days a community member works without pay for communal land conservation. The relationships between the norms and urban access were investigated using probit and tobit regression models. The results reveal that access to urban areas positively affects the establishment of individual and social norms, suggesting that access to urban areas contributes to communal land conservation by facilitating intervention in rural areas, thus improving norms for natural resource management.
Effects of ecological restoration on carbon sink and carbon drawdown of degraded salt marshes with carbon‐rich additives application
Authors: Chen Guozhu , Bai Junhong , Yu Lu , Chen Bin , Zhang Yan , Liu Gengyuan , Wang Wei
Published: April 2022

Plant biomass resources have been gradually used to restore and improve saline soils. However, little is known about whether the applications of reed straw (PA) and biochar (BC) in degraded coastal salt marshes are beneficial for blue carbon sink enhancement and carbon drawdown. Here, we evaluated the effects of 3% PA and 3% BC applications on the vegetation, soil and blue carbon sink function of degraded salt marsh ecosystems and assessed their CO2 reduction capacities based on the life cycle. The results showed that the applications of PA and BC improved the soil quality of degraded salt marshes. Suaeda salsa recovered after 3% PA and 3% BC additions, and its carbon sequestration increased by 133% and 12%, respectively. The carbon pool of the degraded salt marshes was elevated by 0.4%–2.8% compared with that before restoration. The structural equation modelling indicated that both PA and BC application decreased soil electrical conductivity, while promoted the recovery of the plant carbon pool and an increase in the soil carbon pool. We calculated a CO2 drawdown of 137 kg·t−1 for the 3% PA addition in comparison with a CO2 emission of 175 kg·t−1 for the 3% BC addition based on a life cycle assessment. These findings indicate that PA and BC can be effectively used to restore degraded salt marshes and enhance blue carbon sinks while PA application is a better choice for degraded coastal wetlands rehabilitation to achieve carbon drawdown from a life cycle perspective.
Repeated Motor Training on Attention Reaching Skills and Stereotypies in Rett Syndrome
Authors: Fabio Rosa Angela , Giannatiempo Samantha , Caprì Tindara , Semino Martina
Published: April 2022

Background

Few studies investigated the effect of a structured and specific training for upper limb motor skills allowing complex movements such as reaching and grasping.

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of motor training on attention, reaching skills, and stereotypies in patients with Rett syndrome (RTT).

Methods

Twenty‐eight participants with RTT underwent cognitive and motor assessment to evaluate attention, reaching skills and stereotypies with an ABABABA design: before training (pre‐test phase), after a month of training (post‐test phase 1), after a month of the second training phase (post‐test phase 2) and at 1 month after the third training phase (post‐test phase 3). In all three B phases, participants received 30 minutes of motor training for 5 days a week over a 1‐month period.

Results

Patients with RTT show long‐term improvements in seconds of attention and reaching skills and decreases in the intensity of stereotypies.

Conclusions

This study suggests that motor abilities of participants with RTT can be improved with repeated, individual, well‐structured training.
Control of tumor growth modeled by system of PDE, numerical analysis of optimality conditions
Authors: Nowakowski Andrzej , Krawczyk Anita
Published: April 2022

We analyze a mathematical model of a tumor that includes the interactions among tumor cells (live or dead), macrophages, endothelial cells, and the cytokines based on a system of partial differential equations which describes inhibition of tumor growth by granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) treatment. The aim of the model is to predict the growth of the tumor volume under partial blocking of hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF)‐1 or stabilization of HIF‐2, with injection of GM‐CSF. It was assumed that tumor is a spherical and the treatment by GM‐CSF is not optimized. In this paper, we do not assume that tumor is a spherical model and we develop a dual dynamic programming approach to formulate a verification condition of an approximate treatment for an injection of GM‐CSF. Next, we analyze numerically an
‐optimal treatment.
Open‐label pilot study of ranolazine for cramps in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Chandrashekhar Swathy , Hamasaki Anai C. , Clay Rebecca , McCalley Ayla , Herbelin Laura , Pasnoor Mamatha , Jawdat Omar , Dimachkie Mazen M. , Barohn Richard J. , Statland Jeffrey
Published: April 2022

Introduction/Aims

Neuronal hyperexcitability (manifested by cramps) plays a pathological role in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and drugs affecting it may help symptomatic management and slow disease progression. We aimed to determine safety and tolerability of two doses of ranolazine in patients with ALS and evaluate for preliminary evidence of drug‐target engagement by assessing muscle cramp characteristics.

Methods

We performed an open‐label dose‐ascending study of ranolazine in 14 individuals with ALS in two sequential cohorts: 500 mg (cohort 1) and 1000 mg (cohort 2) orally twice daily. Each had a 2‐week run‐in period, 4‐week drug administration, and 6‐week safety follow‐up. Primary outcome was safety and tolerability. Exploratory measures included cramp frequency and severity, fasciculation frequency, cramp potential duration, ALS Functional Rating Scale‐‐‐Revised score, and forced vital capacity.

Results

Six and eight participants were enrolled in cohorts 1 and 2, respectively. There were no serious adverse events. Two subjects in cohort 2 discontinued the drug due to constipation. The most frequent drug‐related adverse event was gastrointestinal (40%). Cramp frequency decreased by 54.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 39%‐70.8%) and severity decreased by 46.3% (95% CI, 29.5‐63.3%), which appeared to be dose‐dependent, with decreased awakening due to cramps. Other outcomes showed no change.

Discussion

Ranolazine was well tolerated in ALS up to 2000 mg/day, with gastrointestinal side effects being the most frequent. Ranolazine reduced cramp frequency and severity, supporting its investigation for muscle cramps in a future placebo‐controlled trial.
Psychological state and its correlates of local college students in Wuhan during COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Liu Fenghuixue , Dai Luojia , Cai Yuyang , Chen Xin , Li Jiaqing , Shi Lili
Published: April 2022

In 2020, the lockdown of Wuhan due to the outbreak of COVID‐19 impacted various aspects of local college students' life and may further negatively affect their psychological state. This study was conducted among 652 Wuhan local college students during the quarantine of this city. We assessed their psychological state using Depression‐Anxiety‐Stress Scale 21 and evaluated their living condition including diet, schedule, recreational activities, social contact, academic life, and attention paid to pandemic news. Results showed that 16.87% of the students reported stress, 28.68% with anxiety, and 35.12% had depression. According to multivariate logistic regression analysis, having a medical background was associated with higher stress levels; students who had an irregular diet and schedule were more likely to develop stress, anxiety, and depression; students with their academic life affected had a higher prevalence of anxiety and depression. By studying local students in the hardest‐hit area during the pandemic, our findings can provide references for the improvement of college students' mental health in the long term.
School counselors' attitude toward online counseling services during the pandemic: The effects of resilience and digital self‐efficacy
Authors: Akgül Gülendam , Atalan Ergin Derya
Published: April 2022

School counseling activities have been delivered online during the COVID‐19 pandemic. This compulsory change has been associated with difficulties in school counseling services. The resilience and digital skills of school counselors are likely to influence the quality of counseling services and their attitude toward online work. Thus, we examined the role of resilience on their attitude toward online counseling services during the pandemic. We also looked at the role of digital skills on their attitudes toward online counseling. The sample consisted of 149 school counselors. We conducted structural equation modeling, in which the direct and indirect effects of resilience and digital self‐efficacy was tested. The results suggested that higher resilience was significantly associated with better attitudes toward school counseling. Moreover, resilient school counselors had higher digital self‐efficacy, which was associated with more positive attitudes toward online school counseling. The implications in terms of preservice and in‐service education of school counselors and interventions to promote resilience were discussed.
Intramolecular synergistic catalysis for asymmetric alternating copolymerization of CO2 and meso‐epoxides
Authors: Li Yi‐Ning , Yang Han‐Han , Lu Xiao‐Bing
Published: April 2022

Asymmetric alternating copolymerization of meso‐epoxides and carbon dioxide (CO2) is an efficient route to produce isotactic polycarbonates with main‐chain chirality involving two contiguous stereogenic centers. Based on multi‐chiral induction and bimetallic synergistic catalysis, herein, we design novel binaphthol‐linked dinuclear aluminum complexes bearing quaternary ammonium salts anchored on the ligand with multiple chiralities for asymmetric copolymerization of CO2 and meso‐epoxides, affording the completely alternating polycarbonates with up to 99% enantioselectivity. Also, they are discovered to be highly active and enantioselective in catalyzing alternating copolymerization of phthalic anhydride and meso‐epoxides in a controlled manner. The linked‐chain length and steric hindrance at the para‐position on the phenolate moieties of the ligand have significant effects on both activity and enantioselectivity. Notably, the bifunctional, multichiral complexes prove to be highly enantioselective and selective even at a low catalyst loading of 20 ppm, indicating an intramolecular synergistic effect between the tethered quaternary ammonium salts and the metallic ions.
A Review on IMX‐101 and IMX‐104 Melt‐Cast Explosives: Insensitive Formulations for the Next‐Generation Munition Systems
Authors: Frem Dany
Published: April 2022

IMX‐101 and IMX‐104 are novel insensitive melt‐pour explosives developed and produced by BAE Systems at the Holston Army Ammunition Plant (HSAAP). The U.S. Army has selected these two explosives as common low‐cost replacements for legacy explosives TNT and Composition‐B used in indirect fire weapons such as artillery and mortar munition systems. This paper will review the literature related to the properties and manufacturing processes of IMX‐101 and IMX‐104, including their physicochemical, thermal, explosive, and sensitivity properties as well as their behavior in Insensitive Munition (IM) tests specifically designed to simulate real threats and hazards faced by a munition on the battlefield. IMX‐101 has been qualified and is currently fielded in the 155 mm M795 and the 105 mm M1 rounds. IMX‐104 has been integrated into various mortar projectiles including the 60 and 81 mm rounds and is being evaluated as a main explosive charge in the next‐generation 155 mm family of ammunition, which includes the XM1128 Extended Range High Explosive round and the XM1113 Rocket Assisted Projectile (RAP).
Revisiting the Kinematics of the Cylinder Test
Authors: Chaos Marcos
Published: April 2022

The cylinder expansion experiment is a well‐established performance test for condensed explosives that is utilized routinely to determine pressure‐energy‐volume relationships for detonation products. The modern cylinder test employs optical interferometric techniques to measure velocity, as opposed to older realizations where streak cameras were commonplace. Despite their widespread use, questions sometimes remain as to what kind of data the velocity diagnostics in a cylinder test provide along with how to interpret such measurements and relate them to physical quantities of interest. In this study, equations are derived that fully describe the kinematics of the cylinder wall during expansion. These equations are then applied to experimental as well as synthetic data generated via a hydrodynamic simulation in order to verify the mathematical framework developed.
A health and lifestyle framework: An evidence‐informed basis for contemporary physical therapist clinical practice guidelines with special reference to individuals with heart failure
Authors: Dean Elizabeth , Lomi Constantina
Published: April 2022

Background and purpose

This study proposes contemporary physical therapist clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) with special reference to heart failure (HF) be grounded in an evidence‐informed integrative health and lifestyle framework to not only better reflect the totality and weighting of the literature, but also in the interest of superior patient, clinical, and economic outcomes.

Methods

As an illustration, a health and lifestyle framework is described to underpin, thereby complement, recently published physical therapist CPGs for individuals with HF.

Results

The case for the framework, an alternative to a single‐disease biomedical perspective, is consistent with 21st century professional and epidemiologic indicators. Four themes that emerged from the HF CPGs and further support such a framework, emerged that is, limitations of conventionally constructed CPGs; physical therapists' scope of practice as “health” professionals; “best” practice in an era of NCDs including HF; and superior economic benefit.

Discussion

A health and lifestyle framework underpinning contemporary physical therapist CPGs will enable clinicians to better appreciate the power of lifestyle change in maximizing the health of the heart, its healing and repair, and in mitigating and reversing signs and symptoms of cardiac dysfunction. Further, a focus on health and lifestyle will augment the benefits of the core, evidence‐based, key action statements related to exercise in the HF CPGs.
UHPLC‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS/MS Characterisation of Phenolic Compounds from Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Kerebba Nasifu , Oyedeji Adebola O. , Byamukama Robert , Kuria Simon K. , Oyedeji Opeoluwa O.
Published: April 2022

Despite the antioxidant properties of different extracts of Tithonia diversifolia being strongly linked to phenolic content, the phenolic profile of this plant had not been comprehensively investigated. In this study, an analytical method based on a hybrid ultra‐performance liquid‐phase chromatography coupled with electrospray ionisation/ quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometer powered with Orbitrap™ technology and equipped with a Thermo Scientific DAD detector (UPLC‐DAD‐ESI‐ QTOF ‐MS/MS) was used to characterise phenolic compounds. In total, 55 phenolic compounds from aqueous fractions of T. diversifolia have been identified. These included 7 novel hydroxycinnamates which were identified with the aid of 1D 1H and 13CNMR, UV and MS/MS of the isolated reference compound. In addition, total antioxidant activity dependence on the total phenol content was evaluated using correlation studies and results showed a moderate correlation. Thus T. diversifolia antioxidant potential was attributed to its phenolic compounds and other metabolites.
Sensitive Detection of 8‐Hydroxyquinoline in Cosmetics by Using a Poly(tannic acid)‐Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode
Authors: Gao Zhimin , Zeng Qiang , Wang Min , Wang Lishi
Published: April 2022

Tannic acid (TA) as a natural plant polyphenol bearing multiple phenolic hydroxyl groups could cause considerable interactions with organic compounds. This work aims at detecting 8‐hydroxyquinoline (8‐HQ) based on poly (tannic acid) (PTA) by electropolymerization of TA on glassy carbon electrode (GCE). Owing to enhanced modified electrode surface area and interactions of PTA with 8‐HQ via hydrogen bonding and π‐π stacking, PTA/GCE exhibits electrocatalytic activity to 8‐HQ. Using Differential pulse voltammetry, PTA/GCE shows two linear plots with 8‐HQ concentrations from 0.5 to 5 μmol L−1 and 5 to 50 μmol L−1, the detection limit is 0.036 μmol L−1. The PTA modified electrode also shows great reproducibility and stability. The application of the sensor for real hair conditioner samples is demonstrated with satisfactory result.
Fabrication of Na‐Ion Full‐Cells using Carbon‐Coated Na3V2(PO4)2O2F Cathode with Conversion Type CuO Nanoparticles from Spent Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Subramanyan Krishnan , Akshay Manohar , Lee Yun‐Sung , Aravindan Vanchiappan
Published: April 2022

Spent lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) offer immense potential in the form of resources such as Li, transition metals (Co, Ni, and Mn), graphite, and Cu, which can be recovered through suitable recycling procedures. The Cu‐current collector is recovered from spent LIBs and converted as a copper oxide (CuO) anode for Na‐ion batteries. The performance of CuO is evaluated with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) (CuO–C), and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF) (CuO–P) binders in CuO half‐cell and CuO/carbon‐coated Na3V2(PO4)2O2F (CuO/NVPOF) full–cell assemblies. The CuO–C half‐cell displays superior electrochemical performance than CuO–P in terms of cycling and rate performance showing 88% more capacity. To study the stabilization and solid electrolyte interphase growth in CuO–C, an in situ impedance study is conducted. However, the full‐cell, CuO–P/NVPOF displays better capacity retention during cycling with Coulombic efficiency >95% from the second cycle, whereas CuO‐C/NVPOF could hardly maintain only >90%. For conversion type CuO, it is apparent that, though the CMC binder supports half‐cell performance, the PVdF binder is suitable for the practical cell/full‐cell configuration.