bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Radionuclides and Technological Advances in SPECT and PET Scanners
Authors: van der Meulen Nicholas P. , Strobel Klaus , Lima Thiago Viana Miranda
Published: December 2021

Developments throughout the history of nuclear medicine have involved improvements in both instrumentation and radionuclides, which have been intertwined. Instrumentation developments always occurred during the search to improving devices’ sensitivity and included advances in detector technology (with the introduction of cadmium zinc telluride and digital Positron Emission Tomography—PET-devices with silicon photomultipliers), design (total body PET) and configuration (ring-shaped, Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT), Compton camera). In the field of radionuclide development, we observed the continual changing of clinically used radionuclides, which is sometimes influenced by instrumentation technology but also driven by availability, patient safety and clinical questions. Some areas, such as tumour imaging, have faced challenges when changing radionuclides based on availability, when this produced undesirable clinical findings with the introduction of unclear focal uptakes and unspecific uptakes. On the other end of spectrum, further developments of PET technology have seen a resurgence in its use in nuclear cardiology, with rubidium-82 from strontium-82/rubidium-82 generators being the radionuclide of choice, moving away from SPECT nuclides thallium-201 and technetium-99m. These continuing improvements in both instrumentation and radionuclide development have helped the growth of nuclear medicine and its importance in the ever-evolving range of patient care options.
Targeting Oncogenic Gαq/11 in Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Lapadula Dominic , Benovic Jeffrey L.
Published: December 2021

Uveal melanoma is the most common intraocular cancer in adults and arises from the transformation of melanocytes in the uveal tract. While treatment of the primary tumor is often effective, 36–50% of patients develop metastatic disease primarily to the liver. While various strategies have been used to treat the metastatic disease, there remain no effective treatments that improve survival. Significant insight has been gained into the pathways that are altered in uveal melanoma, with mutually exclusive activating mutations in the GNAQ and GNA11 genes being found in over 90% of patients. These genes encode the alpha subunits of the hetetrotrimeric G proteins, Gq and G11, and mutations result in activation of several important signaling pathways, including phospholipase C and activation of the transcription factor YAP. In this review, we discuss current efforts to target various signaling pathways in the treatment of uveal melanoma including recent efforts to target Gq and G11 in mouse models. While selective targeting of Gq and G11 provides a potential therapeutic strategy to treat uveal melanoma, it is evident that improved inhibitors and methods of delivery are needed.
Bilateral and Optimistic Warning Paradigms Improve the Predictive Power of Intraoperative Facial Motor Evoked Potentials during Vestibular Schwannoma Surgery
Authors: Greve Tobias , Wang Liang , Katzendobler Sophie , Geyer Lucas L. , Schichor Christian , Tonn Jörg Christian , Szelényi Andrea
Published: December 2021

Facial muscle corticobulbar motor evoked potentials (FMcoMEPs) are used to monitor facial nerve integrity during vestibular schwannoma resections to increase maximal safe tumor resection. Established warning criteria, based on ipsilateral amplitude reduction, have the limitation that the rate of false positive alarms is high, in part because FMcoMEP changes occur on both sides, e.g., due to brain shift or pneumocephalus. We retrospectively compared the predictive value of ipsilateral-only warning criteria and actual intraoperative warnings with a novel candidate warning criterion, based on “ipsilateral versus contralateral difference in relative stimulation threshold increase, from baseline to end of resection” (BilatMT ≥ 20%), combined with an optimistic approach in which a warning would be triggered only if all facial muscles on the affected side deteriorated. We included 60 patients who underwent resection of vestibular schwannoma. The outcome variable was postoperative facial muscle function. Retrospectively applying BilatMT, with the optimistic approach, was found to have a significantly better false positive rate, which was much lower (9% at day 90) than the traditionally used ipsilateral warning criteria (>20%) and was also lower than actual intraoperative warnings. This is the first report combining the threshold method with an optimistic approach in a bilateral multi-facial muscle setup. This method could substantially reduce the rate of false positive alarms in FMcoMEP monitoring.
The Colorectal Cancer Tumor Microenvironment and Its Impact on Liver and Lung Metastasis
Authors: Chandra Raghav , Karalis John D. , Liu Charles , Murimwa Gilbert Z. , Voth Park Josiah , Heid Christopher A. , Reznik Scott I. , Huang Emina , Minna John D. , Brekken Rolf A.
Published: December 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common malignancy and the second most common cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. A total of 20% of CRC patients present with distant metastases, most frequently to the liver and lung. In the primary tumor, as well as at each metastatic site, the cellular components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) contribute to tumor engraftment and metastasis. These include immune cells (macrophages, neutrophils, T lymphocytes, and dendritic cells) and stromal cells (cancer-associated fibroblasts and endothelial cells). In this review, we highlight how the TME influences tumor progression and invasion at the primary site and its function in fostering metastatic niches in the liver and lungs. We also discuss emerging clinical strategies to target the CRC TME.
QTc Intervals Are Prolonged in Late Preterm and Term Neonates during Therapeutic Hypothermia but Normalize Afterwards
Authors: Allegaert Karel , Salaets Thomas , Ward Robert M. , Annaert Pieter , Smits Anne
Published: December 2021

Background: There are anecdotal reports on reversible QTc prolongation during therapeutic hypothermia (TH) for moderate to severe neonatal encephalopathy after asphyxia. As the QTc interval is a relevant biomarker for pharmacovigilance during medication development, a structured search and review on published neonatal QTc values to generate reference values is warranted to facilate medication development in this specific population. Methods: A structured search and literature assessment (PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar) with ‘Newborn/Infant, QT and hypothermia’ was conducted (October 2021). Retrieved individual values were converted to QTc (Bazett) over postnatal age (day 1–7). Results: We retrieved 94 QTc intervals (during TH (n = 50, until day 3) or subsequent normothermia (n = 44, day 4–7)) in 33 neonates from 6 publications. The median (range) of QTc intervals during TH was 508 (430–678), and 410 (317–540) ms afterwards (difference 98 ms, or +28 ms/°C decrease). Four additional cohorts (without individual QTc intervals) confirmed the pattern and magnitude of the effect of body temperature on the QTc interval. Conclusions: We highlighted a relevant non-maturational covariate (°C dependent TH) and generated reference values for the QTc interval in this specific neonatal subpopulation. This knowledge on QTc during TH should be considered and integrated in neonatal medication development.
Feeding Problems and Long-Term Outcomes in Preterm Infants—A Systematic Approach to Evaluation and Management
Authors: Kamity Ranjith , Kapavarapu Prasanna K. , Chandel Amit
Published: December 2021

Preterm infants are known to have long-term healthcare needs. With advances in neonatal medical care, younger and more preterm infants are surviving, placing a subset of the general population at risk of long-term healthcare needs. Oral feeding problems in this population often play a substantial yet under-appreciated role. Oral feeding competency in preterm infants is deemed an essential requirement for hospital discharge. Despite achieving discharge readiness, feeding problems persist into childhood and can have a residual impact into adulthood. The early diagnosis and management of feeding problems are essential requisites to mitigate any potential long-term challenges in preterm-born adults. This review provides an overview of the physiology of swallowing and oral feeding skills, disruptions to oral feeding in preterm infants, the outcomes of preterm infants with feeding problems, and an algorithmic approach to the evaluation and management of neonatal feeding problems.
Mental Imagery and Social Pain in Adolescents—Analysis of Imagery Characteristics and Perspective—A Pilot Study
Authors: Schwarz Susan Muriel , Feike Mersiha , Stangier Ulrich
Published: December 2021

Background: Mental imagery (MI) may play a key role in the development of various mental disorders in adolescents. Adolescence is known to be a fragile life period, in which acceptance by one’s favored peer group is extremely important, and social rejection is particularly painful. This is the first pilot study investigating MI and its relationship to social pain (SP). Method: A sample of 80 adolescents (14–20 years; 75.3% female) completed a web-based quasi-experimental design about the contents and characteristics of their spontaneous positive and negative MI and associated emotions, and were asked to complete the Social Pain Questionnaire, the Becks Depression Inventory and the Social Phobia Inventory. Results: A higher score of SP was significantly associated with increased fear, sadness, and feelings of guilt, and less control over negative MI. Characteristics of negative MI were more precisely predicted by SP scores than depression- and social anxiety scores. Adolescents with higher SP-scores more often reported negative images including social situations and were more likely to perceive negative images in a combination of field-and observer perspectives than adolescents with lower SP scores. Conclusion: SP-sensitivity seems to be linked to unique characteristics of negative MI, which reveals the strong emotional impact of social exclusion in youths. The results do not allow causal conclusions to be drawn, but raise questions about previous studies comparing each imagery perspective individually.
Evaluation of Cumulative Effect of Standard Triple Immunosuppression on Prevention of De Novo Donor Specific Antibodies (dnDSA) Production in Children after Kidney Transplantation—A Retrospective and Prospective Study
Authors: Urzykowska Agnieszka , Piątosa Barbara , Grycuk Urszula , Kowalewski Grzegorz , Kułaga Zbigniew , Grenda Ryszard
Published: December 2021

De novo Donor Specific Antibodies (dnDSA) are associated with inferior graft outcomes. Standard immunosuppression is expected to prevent dnDSA production in low-risk patients. We have evaluated a cumulative effect of a triple immunosuppression (CNI/MMF/Pred), as well as TAC concentration and coefficient of variation on the incidence of dnDSA production. Overall, 67 transplanted patients were evaluated in retrospective (dnDSA for-cause; n = 29) and prospective (dnDSA by protocol; n = 38) groups. In the retrospective group, the eGFR value at first dnDSA detection (median interval—4.0 years post-transplant) was 41 mL/min/1.73 m2; 55% of patients presented biopsy-proven cAMR, and 41% lost the graft within next 2.4 years. Patients from the prospective group presented 97% graft survival and eGFR of 76 mL/min/1.73 m2 at 2 years follow-up, an overall incidence of 21% of dnDSA and 18% of acute (T cell) rejection. None of the patients from the prospective group developed cAMR. Median value of Vasudev score within 2 years of follow-up was not significantly higher in dsDSA negative patients, while median value of TAC C0 > 1–24 months post-transplant was 7.9 in dnDSA negative vs. 7.1 ng/mL in dnDSA positive patients (p = 0.008). Conclusion: dnDSA-negative patients presented a higher exposure to tacrolimus, while not to the combined immunosuppression.
Novel Use of a Bronchial Blocker in a Challenging Case of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia—A Case Report
Authors: Sankaran Deepika , Hirose Shinjiro , Null Donald , Ravula Niroop , Lakshminrusimha Satyan
Published: December 2021

The diagnosis of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Survival of neonates with CDH has improved recently, although the clinical course is complicated by sequelae of hypoplastic pulmonary parenchyma and vasculature, pulmonary hypertension, ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) mismatch, reduced pulmonary function and poor somatic growth. In this case report, we describe an infant with an antenatal diagnosis of CDH with a poor prognosis who underwent initial surgery followed by a tracheostomy but had a worsening clinical course due to a large area of ventilated but poorly perfused lung based on a V/Q nuclear scintigraphy scan. The emphysematous left lung was causing mediastinal shift and compression of the right lung, further compromising gas exchange. The infant had clinical improvement following bronchial blockade of the under-perfused left lung. This paved the way for further management with resection of the under-perfused lung lobe and continued clinical improvement. We present the novel use of selective bronchial blockade in a challenging case of CDH to determine if surgical lung resection may benefit the infant. We also review the physiology of gas exchange during the use of a bronchial occluder and the relevant literature.
Comparison of McGrath Videolaryngoscope and Macintosh Laryngoscope in Children with Torticollis: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hur Min , Kim Jong Yeop , Min Sang Kee , Lee Kyuheok , Won Young Ju , Kim Ji Eun
Published: December 2021

We investigated the efficacy of the McGrath videolaryngoscope compared with the Macintosh laryngoscope in children with torticollis. Thirty children aged 1–10 years who underwent surgical release of torticollis were randomly assigned into the McGrath and Macintosh groups. Orotracheal intubation was performed by a skilled anesthesiologist. The primary outcome was the intubation time. The Cormack–Lehane grade, lifting force, intubation difficulty scale (IDS), difficulty level, and intubation failure rate were also assessed. The intubation time was significantly longer in the McGrath group than in the Macintosh group (31.4 ± 6.7 s vs. 26.1 ± 5.4 s, p = 0.025). Additionally, the Cormack–Lehane grades were comparable between the groups (p = 0.101). The lifting force and IDS were significantly lower in the McGrath group than in the Macintosh group (p < 0.001 and p = 0.022, respectively). No significant differences were observed with respect to endotracheal intubation difficulty and intubation success rate. Intubation-related complications were also not observed. In conclusion, compared with the Macintosh laryngoscope, the McGrath videolaryngoscope extended the intubation time and did not improve glottic visualization in children with torticollis, despite having a lesser lifting force, lower intubation difficulty scale, and similar success rate.
Microbiome Changes of Endemic Lake Baikal Sponges during Bleaching Syndrome Development
Authors: Itskovich Valeria , Kaluzhnaya Oxana , Glyzina Olga , Prathiviraj Ragothaman , Seghal Kiran George , Selvin Joseph
Published: December 2021

The sponge (Porifera) microbiome is an indicator of both natural and anthropogenic stressors. Studying Baikal sponge microbial communities could help reveal if there is a connection between bacterial symbionts and a mass sponge bleaching event that was recently detected; 16S rRNA sequencing was performed among healthy and diseased freshwater sponges of Lubomirskia baikalensis and Baikalospongia intermedia, which were collected from Lake Baikal, Russia. A phylum-based taxonomic classification showed that Chlorophyta, Acidobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria and Cyanobacteria were most abundant across samples. When comparing healthy and diseased L. baikalensis samples, large variations in microbial composition were found at the phylum level. Comparative analyses, which were performed for the first time for B. intermedia, showed a decrease in Chlorophyta (unicellular green algae) and an increase in Bacteroidetes and Cyanobacteria in diseased specimens. At the genus level, the Opitutus (Verrucomicrobia), Planctomyces, and Nitrospira content increased in all diseased sponges, which reflected a general tendency toward an increase in Cyanobacteria in diseased sponges. Comparative analysis of the diseased and healthy sponge metagenomes showed that diseased sponges underwent various nonspecific changes in bacterial composition. The bacterial community composition is probably influenced by sponge type and degree of disease affection.
Do Citizen Science Methods Identify Regions of High Avian Biodiversity?
Authors: Butler Christopher J. , King Chad , Reinking Dan L.
Published: December 2021

Citizen science may offer a way to improve our knowledge of the spatial distribution of biodiversity and endemism, as the data collected by this method can be integrated into existing data sources to provide a more robust understanding of broad scale patterns of species richness. We explored whether data collected by citizen scientists agree on identifying regions of high avian species richness in a well-studied state. We compiled and examined the number of bird species detected in each of the 77 counties of Oklahoma based on published range maps, museum collections, and by five citizen science methods: the USGS Breeding Bird Survey, the Oklahoma Breeding Bird Atlas, eBird, the Oklahoma Winter Bird Atlas, and National Audubon Society Christmas Bird Counts. We also quantified the number of species of conservation concern recorded by each method in each county. A total of 460 species were reported across the state, with the total number of species detected by each method ranging from 40% of this total (Winter Bird Atlas) to 94% of this total (eBird). In general, species totals were poorly correlated across methods, with only six of 21 combinations (28.6%) showing significant correlations. Total species numbers recorded in each county were correlated with human population density and county area, but not with mean annual temperature or precipitation. The total number of species of conservation concern was correlated with the total number of species detected, county area, and precipitation. Most of the citizen science methods examined in this study were not explicitly designed to identify regions of high biodiversity and so efforts to use these methods for this purpose should be employed only cautiously and with a thorough understanding of potential biases.
The Role of Diagnostic Injections in Spinal Disorders: A Narrative Review
Authors: Kim Brian Y. , Concannon Tyler A. , Barboza Luis C. , Khan Talal W.
Published: December 2021

Neck and back pain is increasingly prevalent, and has increased exponentially in recent years. As more resources are dedicated to the diagnosis of pain conditions, it is increasingly important that the diagnostic techniques used are as precise and accurate as possible. Traditional diagnostic methods rely heavily upon patient history and physical examination to determine the most appropriate treatments and/or imaging studies. Though traditional means of diagnosis remain a necessity, in many cases, correlation with positive or negative responses to injections may further enhance diagnostic specificity, and improve outcomes by preventing unnecessary treatments or surgeries. This narrative review aims to present the most recent literature describing the diagnostic validity of precision injections, as well as their impact on surgical planning and outcomes. Diagnostic injections are discussed in terms of facet arthropathy, lumbar radiculopathy, discogenic pain and discography, and sacroiliac joint dysfunction. There is a growing body of evidence supporting the use of diagnostic local anesthetic injections or nerve blocks to aid in diagnosis. Spinal injections add valuable objective information that can potentially improve diagnostic precision, guide treatment strategies, and aid in patient selection for invasive surgical interventions.
Finite Element Iterative Methods for the 3D Steady Navier--Stokes Equations
Authors: He Yinnian
Published: December 2021

In this work, a finite element (FE) method is discussed for the 3D steady Navier–Stokes equations by using the finite element pair Xh×Mh. The method consists of transmitting the finite element solution (uh,ph) of the 3D steady Navier–Stokes equations into the finite element solution pairs (uhn,phn) based on the finite element space pair Xh×Mh of the 3D steady linearized Navier–Stokes equations by using the Stokes, Newton and Oseen iterative methods, where the finite element space pair Xh×Mh satisfies the discrete inf-sup condition in a 3D domain Ω. Here, we present the weak formulations of the FE method for solving the 3D steady Stokes, Newton and Oseen iterative equations, provide the existence and uniqueness of the FE solution (uhn,phn) of the 3D steady Stokes, Newton and Oseen iterative equations, and deduce the convergence with respect to (σ,h) of the FE solution (uhn,phn) to the exact solution (u,p) of the 3D steady Navier–Stokes equations in the H1−L2 norm. Finally, we also give the convergence order with respect to (σ,h) of the FE velocity uhn to the exact velocity u of the 3D steady Navier–Stokes equations in the L2 norm.
Children’s Online Collaborative Storytelling during 2020 COVID-19 Home Confinement
Authors: Alonso-Campuzano Cristina , Iandolo Giuseppe , Mazzeo María Concetta , Sosa González Noelia , Neoh Michelle Jin Yee , Carollo Alessandro , Gabrieli Giulio , Esposito Gianluca
Published: December 2021

Digital collaborative storytelling can be supported by an online learning-management system like Moodle, encouraging prosocial behaviors and shared representations. This study investigated children’s storytelling and collaborative behaviors during an online storytelling activity throughout the 2020 SARS-CoV-2 home confinement in Spain. From 1st to 5th grade of primary school, one-hundred-sixteen students conducted weekly activities of online storytelling as an extracurricular project of a school in Madrid. Facilitators registered participants’ platform use and collaboration. Stories were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using the Bears Family Story Analysis System. Three categories related to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic were added to the story content analysis. The results indicate that primary students worked collaboratively in an online environment, with some methodology adaptations to 1st and 2nd grade. Story lengths tended to be reduced with age, while cohesion and story structure showed stable values in all grades. All stories were balanced in positive and negative contents, especially in characters’ behavior and relationships, while story problems remained at positive solution levels. In addition, the pandemic theme emerged directly or indirectly in only 15% of the stories. The findings indicate the potential of the online collaborative storytelling activities as a distance-education tool in promoting collaboration and social interactions.
Enhanced Intelligent Closed Loop Direct Torque and Flux Control of Induction Motor for Standalone Photovoltaic Water Pumping System
Authors: Saoudi Abderrazek , Krim Saber , Mimouni Mohamed Faouzi
Published: December 2021

This paper aims to search for a high-performance low-cost standalone photovoltaic water pumping system (PVWPS) based on a three-phase induction motor (IM). In order to control the IM, a fuzzy direct torque control (FDTC) is proposed in this paper for overcoming the limitations of the conventional direct torque control (CDTC). In fact, the CDTC suffers from several problems such as torque ripples, current distortion, and switching frequency variations. These problems can be solved with the proposed FDTC. To ensure high performance of the PVWPS, the reference torque is generated using a fuzzy speed controller (FSC) instead of a conventional proportional integral speed controller. In order to extract the maximum amount of power, the proposed maximum power point tracking controller is based on variable step size perturb and observe to surmount the weakness of the conventional perturb and observe technique. The performance of the proposed FDTC based on the FSC under variable climatic conditions is demonstrated by digital simulation using Matlab/Simulink. The obtained results show the effectiveness of the suggested FDTC based on the FSC compared with the CDTC in terms of pumped water, reduction in flux and torque ripple, diminution of losses, and decrease in the stator current harmonic.
Analytical Study of Nonlinear Vibration in a Rub-Impact Jeffcott Rotor
Authors: Herisanu Nicolae , Marinca Vasile
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this work is to explore the nonlinear vibration of a rub-impact Jeffcott rotor. In the first stage, the motion is not affected by the friction force, but in the second stage, the motion is influenced by the normal force and the friction force. The governing equations of the rotor of this model are derived in this paper. In consequence, there appears a difference between the two stages. We establish an approximate analytical solution for nonlinear vibrations corresponding to two stages with the mention of the location of jumps. The obtained results are compared with the numerical integration results. The steady-state response and the stability of the solutions are analytically determined for the two stages. The stability of a full annular rub solution is studied with the help of the Routh–Hurwitz criterion. Effects of different parameters of the system, the saddle-node bifurcation (turning points) and the Hopf bifurcation are presented. The main contribution lies in the analytical approximation solution based on the Optimal Auxiliary Functions Method.
Combined Effect of Altitude, Season and Light on the Accumulation of Extractable Terpenes in Norway Spruce Needles
Authors: Večeřová Kristýna , Klem Karel , Veselá Barbora , Holub Petr , Grace John , Urban Otmar
Published: December 2021

Plants produce specific terpenes, secondary metabolites conferring tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Our study aims to investigate the effects of altitude, light intensity and season on contents of mono- and sesquiterpenes in needles of coniferous Norway spruce (Picea abies). Needles of current shoots representing upper and lower canopy were collected from adult trees growing along an altitudinal gradient (400–1100 m a.s.l.) in summer and autumn. After the extraction in cold heptane, the content of extractable terpenes was determined by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Our results show that the total content of terpenes decreases with increasing altitude regardless of canopy position and season. Needles of the upper canopy have a higher total content of terpenes than lower canopy needles, but this difference decreases with increasing altitude in summer. Total content of extractable terpenes increases in autumn when compared to summer particularly in upper canopy needles of trees from high altitudes. Limonene, camphene, α-pinene and myrcene are the most abundant monoterpenes in spruce needles forming up to 85% of total monoterpenes, while germacrene D-4-ol is the most abundant sesquiterpene. Altitude, canopy position and season have a significant interactive effect on most monoterpenes, but not on sesquiterpenes. Terpenoid biosynthesis is thus tightly linked to growth conditions and likely plays a crucial role in the constitution of stress tolerance in evergreen conifers.
Atmospheric Methane Consumption and Methanotroph Communities in West Siberian Boreal Upland Forest Ecosystems
Authors: Sabrekov Aleksandr F. , Danilova Olga V. , Terentieva Irina E. , Ivanova Anastasia A. , Belova Svetlana E. , Litti Yuri V. , Glagolev Mikhail V. , Dedysh Svetlana N.
Published: December 2021

Upland forest ecosystems are recognized as net sinks for atmospheric methane (CH4), one of the most impactful greenhouse gases. Biological methane uptake in these ecosystems occurs due to the activity of aerobic methanotrophic bacteria. Russia hosts one-fifth of the global forest area, with the most extensive forest landscapes located in West Siberia. Here, we report seasonal CH4 flux measurements conducted in 2018 in three types of stands in West Siberian middle taiga–Siberian pine, Aspen, and mixed forests. High rates of methane uptake of up to −0.184 mg CH4 m−2 h−1 were measured by a static chamber method, with an estimated total growing season consumption of 4.5 ± 0.5 kg CH4 ha−1. Forest type had little to no effect on methane fluxes within each season. Soil methane oxidation rate ranged from 0 to 8.1 ng CH4 gDW−1 h−1 and was negatively related to water-filled pore space. The microbial soil communities were dominated by the Alpha- and Gammaproteobacteria, Acidobacteriota and Actinobacteriota. The major group of 16S rRNA gene reads from methanotrophs belonged to uncultivated Beijerinckiaceae bacteria. Molecular identification of methanotrophs based on retrieval of the pmoA gene confirmed that Upland Soil Cluster Alpha was the major bacterial group responsible for CH4 oxidation.
The Current State of Knowledge of Shea Butter Tree (Vitellaria paradoxa C.F.Gaertner.) for Nutritional Value and Tree Improvement in West and Central Africa
Authors: Choungo Nguekeng Patrick Bustrel , Hendre Prasad , Tchoundjeu Zacharie , Kalousová Marie , Tchanou Tchapda Armelle Verdiane , Kyereh Dennis , Masters Eliot , Lojka Bohdan
Published: December 2021

Vitellaria paradoxa (C.F.Gaertn.) is a multi-purpose tree species distributed in a narrow band across sub-Saharan Africa. The species is integrated into cropping and agroforestry systems as a nutritional and economic resource, which provides a range of environmental services. Integration of the species into land-use systems provides an essential source of livelihoods and income for local populations. The economic potential of the shea butter tree derives from its edible products, which also serve cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications. To understand the current state of knowledge about V. paradoxa, this paper summarizes information about the ecology, population structure, and genetic diversity of the species, also considering compositional variation in the pulp and kernels, management practices, and efforts towards its domestication. Despite the great potential of the shea butter tree, there are some gaps in the understanding of the genetics of the species. This review presents up-to-date information related to the species for further domestication and breeding purposes.
Thermal–Mechanical Coupling Evaluation of the Panel Performance of a Prefabricated Cabin-Type Substation Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Lei Xiangsheng , Ouyang Jinwu , Wang Yanfeng , Wang Xinghua , Zhang Xiaofeng , Chen Feng , Xia Chang , Liu Zhen , Zhou Cuiying
Published: December 2021

The panel performance of a prefabricated cabin-type substation under the impact of fires plays a vital role in the normal operation of the substation. However, current evaluations of the panel performance of substations under fire still focus on fire resistance tests, which seldom consider the relationship between fire behavior and the mechanical load of the panel under the impact of fires. Aiming at the complex and uncertain relationship between the thermal and mechanical performance of the substation panel under impact of fires, this paper proposes a machine learning method based on a BP neural network. First, the fire resistance test and the stress test of the panel is carried out, then a machine learning model is established based on the BP neural network. According to the collected data, the model parameters are obtained through a series of training and verification processes. Meanwhile, the correlation between the panel performance and fire resistance was obtained. Finally, related parameters are input into the thermal–mechanical coupling evaluation model for the substation panel performance to evaluate the fire resistance performance of the substation panel. To verify the correctness of the established model, numerical simulation of the fire test and stress test of the panel is conducted, and numerical simulation samples are predicted by the trained model. The results show that the prediction curve of neural network is closer to the real results compared with the numerical simulation, and the established model can accurately evaluate the thermal–mechanical coupling performance of the substation panel under fire.
Lyapunov Approach for Almost Periodicity in Impulsive Gene Regulatory Networks of Fractional Order with Time-Varying Delays
Authors: Stamova Ivanka , Stamov Gani
Published: December 2021

This paper investigates a class of fractional-order delayed impulsive gene regulatory networks (GRNs). The proposed model is an extension of some existing integer-order GRNs using fractional derivatives of Caputo type. The existence and uniqueness of an almost periodic state of the model are investigated and new criteria are established by the Lyapunov functions approach. The effects of time-varying delays and impulsive perturbations at fixed times on the almost periodicity are considered. In addition, sufficient conditions for the global Mittag–Leffler stability of the almost periodic solutions are proposed. To justify our findings a numerical example is also presented.
Psychometric Properties of the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale-7 Item (GAD-7) in a Large Sample of Chinese Adolescents
Authors: Sun Jiangang , Liang Kaixin , Chi Xinli , Chen Sitong
Published: December 2021

Anxiety symptoms are common among adolescents. A well-validated and easy-to-use tool is indispensable to measure and detect anxiety for timely interventions. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale-7 item (GAD-7) is a self-report scale used to measure the severity of anxiety and has been validated in adult populations, but psychometric properties of the GAD-7 remained rarely tested in adolescents. The study aimed to investigate the reliability and validity of the GAD-7 in Chinese adolescents. Sex- and age-specific analyses were conducted in a large sample of adolescents (n = 67,281, aged 10–17 years). Our results showed that the GAD-7 scores were higher in female and older adolescents. The GAD-7 presented good internal consistency and a unidimensional structure across sex- and age-specific groups. The GAD-7 scores were significantly correlated with the scores of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 item (PHQ-9, a self-reported scale to measure depression symptoms) in all subgroups, indicating acceptable criterion validity. In conclusion, the GAD-7 is a scale with good psychometrics and can serve as a tool for anxiety screening in Chinese adolescents at the populational level.
Portrait of an Etruscan Athletic Official: A Multi-Analytical Study of a Painted Terracotta Wall Panel
Authors: Ganio Monica , MacLennan Douglas , Svoboda Marie , Lyons Claire , Trentelman Karen
Published: December 2021

The Getty’s Etruscan painted terracotta wall panel, Athletic Official, recently has been speculated to be associated with a Caeretan wall panel depicting a Discobolus based on a shared iconography. To better understand the materials and techniques used to create the Getty panel and investigate its relation to extant Etruscan painted terracotta panels, a multi-analytical study was conducted, using broadband visible, IR, and UV imaging, along with scanning MA-XRF, FORS, Raman, SEM-EDS, and XRD analytical techniques. The analytical results together with PCA analysis suggest the clay support of the Getty panel is most similar in composition to that of panels from Cerveteri. A manganese black was identified in the decorative scheme; not commonly employed, this appears to be an important marker for the workshop practice in Cerveteri. Most significantly, the use of MA-XRF scanning allowed for invisible ruling lines on the Athletic Official, presumably laid down at the earliest stages of the creation of the panel, to be visualized. Taken together, the results of this study provide new insights into Caeretan workshop practice as well as provide a framework for better understanding the design and execution of Etruscan polychromy.
Spatio-Temporal Characteristics of Landscape Ecological Risks in the Ecological Functional Zone of the Upper Yellow River, China
Authors: Qiao Fuwei , Bai Yongping , Xie Lixia , Yang Xuedi , Sun Shuaishuai
Published: December 2021

The Ecological Functional Zone of the Upper Yellow River (EFZUYR) is a critical water-catching area in the Yellow River Basin, the ecological security of which affects the sound development of the ecosystem in the entire basin. Recently, significant land use changes have aggravated regional ecological risks and seriously affected the sustainable development of EFZUYR. In this context, this paper provides an in-depth study of the ecological risks caused by land use landscape changes. With the help of land use data and dynamic degree analysis, the land use transfer matrix, and the landscape pattern index, this paper quantifies the distribution trends of land use landscape patterns in EFZUYR from 1990 to 2018. In addition, this research explores the temporal and spatial dynamic distribution characteristics of landscape ecological risks in this functional zone. The research results show the following: (1) The transfer of land use in EFZUYR from 1990 to 2018 mainly occurred among cultivated land, grassland, and woodland, with the transferred area accounting for 87.16% of the total changed area. (2) The fragmentation degree of built-up areas is 0.1097, 0.1053, 0.0811 and 0.0762 in 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2018, respectively, with a decreasing trend. The dominance degree of grassland has been maintained at the highest level for a long time, with all values above 0.59. The separation degree and the interference degree of built-up areas were the highest and the values of the four periods were above 1.2 and 0.44, respectively. The loss degree of water was the highest, with a value above 0.67, while the value of other land use was mostly below 0.4. (3) The landscape ecological risk of EFZUYR presented a fluctuating rising, falling, and then rising trend. The spatial distribution characteristic of EFZUYR presented “high in the north and south, low in the middle.”, which has been maintained for a long time. The proportion of low-risk areas is as high as 70%, and the overall ecological risk of the region was low. However, the ecological risk of some areas, such as Linxia City and Magu County, increased. These findings can provide theoretical support for land use planning and achieving sustainable development of EFZUYR.
Risk Factors for Increased Online Gambling during COVID-19 Lockdowns in New Zealand: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Bellringer Maria E. , Garrett Nick
Published: December 2021

Recent research investigating changes in gambling behaviors during periods of COVID-19 social restrictions, such as enforced lockdowns, are somewhat limited by methodology, being generally cross-sectional in nature and with participant samples recruited via online panels. The present study overcame these limitations via a secondary analysis of data collected in 2012 and 2015 from a New Zealand (NZ) longitudinal gambling study, with questions related to gambling behaviors due to COVID-19 lockdown periods included in an additional data collection, of participants who had previously scored as a risky gambler, during 2020/21. Almost one-quarter of online gamblers increased their gambling during lockdown with this most likely to be on overseas gambling sites, instant scratch card gambling and Lotto. The only sociodemographic risk factor for increased online gambling was higher education. Behavioral risk factors included being a current low risk/moderate risk/problem gambler, a previously hazardous alcohol drinker or past participation in free-to-play gambling-type games. These past behaviors could act as trigger points for health services or family and friends to monitor a person’s gambling behaviors during lockdown, or future stressful periods when usual terrestrial gambling opportunities are curtailed or unavailable, and to support safer gambling practices.
Prevalence and Correlates of Prescription Drug Misuse in a Nationwide Population Survey in Taiwan
Authors: Liu Shu-Wei , Wu Chia-Yi , Lee Ming-Been , Huang Ming-Chi , Chan Chia-Ta , Chen Chun-Ying
Published: December 2021

Background: Prescription drug misuse (PDM) is a critical mental health issue relating to psychiatric morbidity. This study investigated the prevalence of PDM and its associated psychopathology and psychosocial factors in the general population in Taiwan. Methods: The survey randomly selected a representative sample >15 year-olds using the stratified proportional randomization method. The measurements included demographic variables, previous experience with PDM, self-rated physical and mental health, health self-efficacy, risk factors for suicidality, and psychological distress. Results: The weighted one-year prevalence of PDM was 8.5% (n = 180) among 2126 participants. Those with psychological distress and lifetime suicide ideation (23.3%) or suicide attempts (5.0%) were significantly associated with PDM. PDM was also prevalent among those with poorer self-rated health and lower self-efficacy. Insomnia (OR = 1.52), depression (OR = 1.77), and low self-efficacy (OR = 2.29) had higher odds of PDM after adjustment in the logistic regression model. Conclusions: Individuals who misused prescription drugs had a higher prevalence of psychological distress and suicidality and lower levels of self-rated health. Prescription drug misuse problems should be screened for early prevention when prescribing medications for people with insomnia, depression, or lower perceived health beliefs or conditions.
Retrospective Analysis of Clinical and Radiologic Data Regarding Zygomatic Implant Rehabilitation with a Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Di Cosola Michele , Ballini Andrea , Zhurakivska Khrystyna , Ceccarello Alberto , Nocini Riccardo , Malcangi Annarita , Mori Giorgio , Lo Muzio Lorenzo , Cantore Stefania , Olivo Antonio
Published: December 2021

Background: Zygomatic implants have been introduced to rehabilitate edentulous patients with severely atrophic maxillae. Their use has been reported by several studies, describing high overall survival rates at medium–long follow-up. The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze if a few patient-related and implant-related features are correlated with implant success or the onset of complications. Materials and methods: Data of patients treated with zygomatic implants between May 2005 and November 2012 at three private clinics were collected and retrospectively analyzed. For each implant, the following data were collected: implant length, insertion path, ridge atrophy and sinus characteristics (width, pneumatization, thickness of mucosae, patency of sinus ostium). General patient characteristics and health status data were also recorded. The outcomes evaluated were implant failure, infective complications, early neurologic complications and overall complications. Results: A total of 33 patients (14 men, 17 women, mean age 59.1) that received 67 zygomatic implants were included in the study. The mean duration of the follow-up was of 141.6 months (min 109; max 198). In this period, a total of 16 (23.88%) implants in 8 (24.24%) patients were removed and 17 (51.51%) patients with 36 (53.73%) implants reported complications. Immediate loading resulted in a significantly lower risk of complications compared with the two-stage prosthetic rehabilitation (OR: 0.04, p = 0.002). A thickness of the sinus mucosa > 3 mm emerged to be correlated with a greater occurrence of infective complications (OR: 3.39, p = 0.019). Severe and extreme pneumatization of the sinus was significantly correlated with the incidence of overall complications (p = 0.037) and implant failure (p = 0.044). A large sinus width was predisposed to a higher risk of neurologic complications, infective complications and implant failure (p = 0.036, p = 0.032, p = 0.04, respectively). Conclusions: zygomatic implants are an alternative procedure for atrophic ridge rehabilitation when a conventional implant placement is not possible. Several clinical and anatomical factors can have a significant role in complication occurrence.
Optimizing Images for an E-Cigarette Messaging Campaign: Liking and Perceived Effectiveness
Authors: Stevens Elise M. , Keller-Hamilton Brittney , Mays Darren , Unger Jennifer B. , Wackowski Olivia A. , West Julia C. , Villanti Andrea C.
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Given the prevalence of electronic vapor product (EVP) use among young people in the US, there is a need for effective vaping education campaigns. This study tested 32 images for liking and perceived effectiveness (PE) to identify optimal images for a messaging campaign. Method: Images were selected from current campaigns, warning labels, and other images based on young adult reasons for use. Images were coded for the presence of (1) people, (2) vapor, (3) device, (4) color, and (5) similarity to warning label image. Young adults (n = 200) were recruited from the Amazon Mechanical Turk platform. Participants were randomly assigned to view and rate six of the 32 images on liking as well as PE, which measured the potential impact of the image to discourage vaping appeal and use. Results: Images containing vapor and/or a device or e-liquid were not well-liked but were perceived as effective in discouraging vaping (ps < 0.05). Images from warning labels were also not well-liked but were perceived as significantly more effective than those not from a warning (p < 0.01). Liking and effectiveness of features was similar for both EVP users and non-users. Discussion: Images with specific features were rated as less likable but rated as higher on PE. However, the consistency of image features rated as effective by EVP users and non-users supports the utility of similar imagery for vaping prevention and reduction efforts.
Feasible Distributed Energy Supply Options for Household Energy Use in China from a Carbon Neutral Perspective
Authors: Zhang Yingxin , Wang Sainan , Shao Wei , Hao Junhong
Published: December 2021

This contribution firstly proposed the concept of annual average power generation hours and analyzed per capita energy consumption, carbon emission, and the human development index from a macro perspective. On this basis, we compared the average household electrical energy consumption of urban and rural residents based on the data from CGSS-2015 from a micro perspective. The results show the positive correlation between carbon emissions per capita and the human development index and China’s regional imbalance characteristics between household electricity consumption and renewable energy distribution. Therefore, the distributed energy supply system is proposed as an effective complement to centralized power generation systems and is the key to synergizing human development and carbon emissions in China. Moreover, we analyzed the characteristics of distributed energy supply systems in the context of existing energy supply systems, pointing out the need to fully use solar energy and natural gas. Finally, two types of typical distributed energy supply systems are proposed for satisfying the household energy requirements in remote or rural areas of western and the eastern or coastal areas of China, respectively. Two typical distributed energy systems integrate high-efficiency energy conversion, storage, and transfer devices such as electric heat pumps, photovoltaic thermal, heat and electricity storage, and fuel cells.