bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ontogenetic allometry underlies trophic diversity in sea turtles (Chelonioidea)
Authors: Chatterji Ray M. , Hipsley Christy A. , Sherratt Emma , Hutchinson Mark N. , Jones Marc E. H.
Published: March 2022

Despite only comprising seven species, extant sea turtles (Cheloniidae and Dermochelyidae) display great ecological diversity, with most species inhabiting a unique dietary niche as adults. This adult diversity is remarkable given that all species share the same dietary niche as juveniles. These ontogenetic shifts in diet, as well as a dramatic increase in body size, make sea turtles an excellent group to examine how morphological diversity arises by allometric processes and life habit specialisation. Using three-dimensional geometric morphometrics, we characterise ontogenetic allometry in the skulls of all seven species and evaluate variation in the context of phylogenetic history and diet. Among the sample, the olive ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea) has a seemingly average sea turtle skull shape and generalised diet, whereas the green (Chelonia mydas) and hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) show different extremes of snout shape associated with their modes of food gathering (grazing vs. grasping, respectively). Our ontogenetic findings corroborate previous suggestions that the skull of the leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea) is paedomorphic, having similar skull proportions to hatchlings of other sea turtle species and retaining a hatchling-like diet of relatively soft bodied organisms. The flatback sea turtle (Natator depressus) shows a similar but less extreme pattern. By contrast, the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) shows a peramorphic signal associated with increased jaw muscle volumes that allow predation on hard shelled prey. The Kemp’s ridley (Lepidochelys kempii) has a peramorphic skull shape compared to its sister species the olive ridley, and a diet that includes harder prey items such as crabs. We suggest that diet may be a significant factor in driving skull shape differences among species. Although the small number of species limits statistical power, differences among skull shape, size, and diet are consistent with the hypothesis that shifts in allometric trajectory facilitated diversification in skull shape as observed in an increasing number of vertebrate groups.
Meritocracy and the inheritance of advantage
Authors: Comerford David , Rodríguez Mora José V. , Watts Michael J.
Published: March 2022

We present a model where more accurate information on the background of individuals facilitates statistical discrimination, increasing inequality and intergenerational persistence in income. Surprisingly, more accurate information on the actual capabilities of workers leads to the same result—firms give increased weight to the more accurate information, increasing inequality, which itself fosters discrimination. The rich take advantage of this through educational investments in their children, and mobility decreases as a consequence of an increase in the ability to reward talent. Using our model to interpret the data suggests that a country like the US might indeed be a land of opportunity for the sufficiently able, as conditional on ability background may have relatively little effect. Nevertheless the US has a relatively low degree of intergenerational mobility precisely because meritocracy facilitates a high correlation of ability with background.
Robust color image watermarking using multi-core Raspberry pi cluster
Authors: Hosny Khalid M. , Magdi Amal , Lashin Nabil A. , El-Komy Osama , Salah Ahmad
Published: March 2022

Image authentication approaches have gotten a lot of interest recently as a way to safeguard transmitted images. Watermarking is one of the many ways used to protect transmitted images. Watermarking systems are pc-based that have limited portability that is difficult to use in harsh environments as military use. We employ embedded devices like Raspberry Pi to get around the PC’s mobility limitations. Digital image watermarking technology is used to secure and ensure digital images’ copyright by embedding hidden information that proves its copyright. In this article, the color images Parallel Robust watermarking algorithm using Quaternion Legendre-Fourier Moment (QLFM) in polar coordinates is implemented on Raspberry Pi (RPi) platform with parallel computing and C++ programming language. In the host image, a binary Arnold scrambled image is embedded. Watermarking algorithm is implemented and tested on Raspberry Pi model 4B. We can combine many Raspberry Pi’s into a ‘cluster’ (many computers working together as one) for high-performance computation. Message Passing Interface (MPI) and OpenMP for parallel programming to accelerate the execution time for the color image watermarking algorithm implemented on the Raspberry Pi cluster.
Capturing what matters: updating NICE methods guidance on measuring and valuing health
Authors: Dawoud Dalia , Lamb Alan , Moore Alan , Bregman Caroline , Rupniewska Ewa , Paling Thomas , Wolfram Verena , Lovett Rosemary E. S. , Dent Ross
Published: March 2022

In July 2019, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) initiated a major review of its health technology evaluation methods to update its methods guide. This update has recently concluded with the publication of its health technology evaluation manual in January 2022. This paper reports the methods and findings of the review in relation to the recommended approach to use for the measurement and valuation of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in submissions to NICE. Issues related to (i) the methods to use when NICE’s preferred measure (EQ-5D) is not appropriate or not available; (ii) adjusting health state utility values over time to account for age; (iii) measuring and valuing HRQoL in children and young people; and (iv) including carers’ QoL in economic evaluations were included in this review. This commentary summarises the methods used to undertake the review, its findings, and the changes to NICE methods that were proposed based on these findings. It also outlines topics where further research is needed before definitive methods guidance can be issued. The broad proposals described here were subject to a public consultation in 2020 and a further consultation on the updated methods guidance was completed in October 2021 before the publication of the manual in January 2022.
Local Beta: Has Local Real Estate Market Risk Been Priced in REIT Returns?
Authors: Zhu Bing , Lizieri Colin
Published: March 2022

This paper studies the pricing of the risk associated with the location of the assets. The local real estate market risk is measured by ‘local beta’, which combines the systematic risk of local property markets and the property allocation strategy of real estate firms. The empirical results confirm a higher equity return for a firm with higher exposure to the most volatile property markets, particularly for REITs which are more geographically concentrated. For REITs with highly diversified assets, local real estate risks are not reflected in REIT returns. For those REITs with most concentrated assets, a one standard deviation increase in the local beta will lead to a 4.7% increase in the annual return. Investors can use REITs’ local real estate risk as an information tool to construct a long-short investment portfolio of real estate firms and can achieve a significant non-market performance of 4.9% per annum.
The effects of replacement of berseem hay in total mixed rations with date palm leaves ensiled with malic or lactic acids at different levels on the nutritive value, ruminal in vitro biogas production and fermentation
Authors: Kholif Ahmed E. , Gouda Gouda A. , Morsy Tarek A. , Patra Amlan K.
Published: March 2022

The present study aimed to evaluate the sustainable utilization of date palm leaves (DPL) and rice straw (RS) as feed materials for ruminants using an in vitro wireless gas production (GP) technique. Date palm leaves and RS were individually ensiled with lactic or malic acids at 5 g/kg DM for 45 days. In a total mixed ration containing concentrate feed mixture, vegetable/fruits byproducts, untreated RS, and berseem hay (control ration), untreated RS was completely replaced with treated RS (ensiled without additives or with lactic or malic acids) whereas berseem hay was replaced with DPL (ensiled without additives or with lactic or malic acid) at 25, 50, 75, and 100% levels. Significant treatment × replacement level interactions were observed (P < 0.01) for most measured parameters of gas, methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) productions, and degradability and volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration. Replacing berseem hay with increasing levels of lactic or malic acid-treated DPL gradually decreased (P < 0.01) the asymptotic total gas and CH4 and CO2 productions, and malic acid-treated DPL decreased the rates of total gas, CH4 and CO2 productions, and the lag time of total GP. Moreover, lactic acid-treated DPL linearly increased (P < 0.05) the concentration of total VFA and acetate. Malic acid-treated DPL did not affect the measured ruminal fermentation parameters. Compared with the malate-treated DPL, lactate-treated DPL increased dry matter and neutral detergent fiber degradability, total VFA and acetate concentrations, and decreased CH4 production. In conclusion, replacing berseem hay with malic or lactic acids improved ruminal fermentation and decreased CH4 and CO2 productions, which can be considered as a sustainable strategy for cleaner ruminant production. Lactic acid treatment of DPL may result in better ruminal fermentation characteristics than the malic acid treatment of DPL.

Graphical abstract
Bridging the empathy gap: or not? Reactions to ingroup and outgroup facial expressions
Authors: Hess Ursula , Rychlowska Magdalena , Storz Tobias , Blaison Christophe , Fischer Agneta , Krumhuber Eva G.
Published: March 2022

Prior research suggests that group membership impacts behavioral and self-reported responses to others’ facial expressions of emotion. In this paper, we examine how the mere labelling of a face as an ingroup or outgroup member affects facial mimicry (Study 1) and judgments of genuineness (Study 2). In addition, we test whether the effects of group membership on facial mimicry and perceived genuineness are moderated by the presence of tears (Study 1) and the motivation to cooperate (Study 2). Results from both studies revealed group-specific biases in facial mimicry and judgments of genuineness. However, introducing cooperative goals abolished differences in judgments of genuineness of facial expressions displayed by ingroup and outgroup members. Together, the findings provide insights into how intergroup biases in emotion perception operate and how they can be reduced by introducing cooperative goals.
Geometry and Ergodic Theory of Parabolic Meromorphic Functions
Authors: Xuan Zuxing
Published: March 2022

Letfbe a parabolic transcendental meromorphic function with positive and finite order$$\rho$$ρand its derivative satisfies some growth conditions. In this paper, we show the existence of conformal measures and use this basic tool to illustrate both geometrical and dynamical features of the radial Julia set. We also characterize the conformal measures supported on radial Julia sets.
Deep Learning for Efficient Microseismic Location Using Source Migration‐Based Imaging
Authors: Zhang Qingshan , Zhang Wei , Wu Xinming , Zhang Jie , Kuang Wenhuan , Si Xu
Published: March 2022

Migration‐based location methods (e.g., time‐reverse imaging based on wave equation, Kirchhoff summation, and diffraction stacking) can effectively locate events of low signal‐to‐noise ratios by stacking waveforms from many receivers. The methods have been widely applied for surface microseismic monitoring. However, these methods may not produce accurate results if there are polarity reversals in the surface records for a double‐couple or even a general moment tensor event. Various imaging conditions have been developed to solve the non‐focus image problem for a non‐explosive source. Here, we propose a deep convolutional neural network to predict a better‐focused image from a regular migration image that contains a quasi‐symmetric pattern in both space and time. To train the network, we first simulate a large number of surface records from sources with various locations and mechanisms. We then compute diffraction stacking images from the records and take the images as the input to the network. We define the corresponding training labels as images (with the same size as the input) with Gaussian distributions centered at the true sources. This network, trained by only synthetic datasets, works well in field data to detect source locations from images for unknown events. Both synthetic tests and field data applications demonstrate that the proposed method can effectively improve diffraction stacking images for efficient microseismic location.
Assembly and Tectonic Evolution of Continental Lower Crust: Monazite Petrochronology of the Ivrea‐Verbano Zone (Val Strona di Omegna)
Authors: Wyatt Damaris C. , Smye Andrew J. , Garber Joshua M. , Hacker Bradley R.
Published: March 2022

Metasediments are common constituents of exhumed lower‐to‐mid‐crustal granulite terranes; understanding their emplacement is significant for the assembly and tectonic evolution of deep continental crust. Here, we report a monazite U‐Th‐Pb petrochronological investigation of the Variscan Ivrea‐Verbano Zone (IVZ) (Val Strona di Omegna section)—an archetypal section of lower crust. Monazite Th‐Pb dates from 11 metapelitic samples decrease with structural depth from 310 to 285 Ma for amphibolite‐facies samples to <290 Ma for granulite‐facies samples. These dates exhibit a time‐resolved variation in monazite trace‐element composition, dominated by the effects of plagioclase and garnet partitioning. Monazite growth under prograde to peak metamorphic conditions began as early as 316 ± 2 Ma. Amphibolite‐facies monazite defines a trend consistent with progressively decreasing garnet modal abundances during decompression and cooling starting at ∼310 Ma; the timing of the onset of exhumation decreases to ∼290 Ma at the base of the amphibolite‐facies portion of the section. Structurally lower, granulite‐facies monazite equilibrated under garnet‐present pressure‐temperature conditions at <290 Ma, with monazite (re)crystallization persisting until at least ∼260 Ma. Combined with existing detrital zircon U‐Pb dates, the monazite data define a <30 Myr duration between deposition of clastic sediments and their burial and heating, potentially to peak amphibolite‐to‐granulite‐facies conditions. Similarly brief timescales for deposition, burial and prograde metamorphism of lower crustal sediments have been reported from continental magmatic arc terranes—supporting the interpretation that the IVZ represents sediments accreted to the base of a Variscan arc magmatic system >5 Myr prior to the onset of regional extension and mafic magmatism.
Black Neighborhoods Will Bear Future Flood Burden
Authors: Cartier Kimberly
Published: March 2022

Climate change, shifting populations, and infrastructure development in risky areas compound future flood loss risk.
Pollution Is Disrupting Rain Cycles in the Amazon
Authors: Rodrigues Meghie
Published: March 2022

A team of researchers in Brazil and the United States uncovered the importance of the mechanism of oxidation—a process with the potential to affect climate and precipitation across the tropics.
Distributed Sensing and Machine Learning Hone Seismic Listening
Authors: Trainor-Guitton Whitney , Martin Eileen , Rodr�guez Tribaldos Ver�nica , Taverna Nicole , Dumont Vincent
Published: March 2022

Fiber-optic cables can provide a wealth of detailed data on subsurface vibrations from a wide range of sources. Machine learning offers a means to make sense of it all.
Continental Break‐Up Under a Convergent Setting: Insights From P Wave Radial Anisotropy Tomography of the Woodlark Rift in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Yu Youqiang , Tilmann Frederik , Zhao Dapeng , Gao Stephen S. , Liu Kelly H.
Published: March 2022

To explore the dynamic mechanism of continental rifting within a convergent setting, we determine the first P wave radial anisotropic tomography beneath the Woodlark rift in southeastern Papua New Guinea, which develops within the obliquely colliding zone between the Australian and southwest Pacific plates. The rift zone is depicted as localized low‐velocity anomalies with positive radial anisotropy, which rules out a dominant role of active mantle upwelling in promoting the rift development and favors passive rifting with decompression melting as main processes. Downwelling slab relics in the upper mantle bounding the rift zone are revealed based on observed high‐velocity anomalies and negative radial anisotropy, which may contribute to the ultra‐high pressure rock exhumations and rift initiation. Our observations thus indicate that the Woodlark rift follows a passive model and is mainly driven by slab pull from the northward subduction of the Solomon plate.
Long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 467 inhibition elevates microRNA-27b-3p to repress malignant behaviors of gastric cancer cells via reducing STAT3
Authors: Lu Mingdian , Liu Dong , Li Yongxiang
Published: March 2022

Emerging evidence indicated that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) exert critical effects on tumorigenesis of multiple malignancies, including gastric cancer (GC). We aim to explore the effects of long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 467 (LINC00467) and miR-27b-3p on GC. GC cells were initially cultured. LINC00467, miR-27b-3p, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) expression in GC were detected. The altered LINC00467 and/or miR-27b-3p were transfected into screened cells. Then, the biological activities of GC cells and the tumor growth in vivo were examined. The binding relationships among LINC00467, miR-27b-3p, and STAT3 were confirmed. It was indicated that LINC00467 was increased while miR-27b-3p was decreased in GC tissues and cells. Inhibition of LINC00467 hindered GC cell malignancy and blocked tumor development by upregulating miR-27b-3p. LINC00467 sponged miR-27b-3p and STAT3 was targeted by miR-27b-3p. It was discovered that LINC00467 reduction upregulates miR-27b-3p to repress malignant GC cell growth via inhibiting STAT3. This research may deepen the insight of molecular mechanisms on GC.
Understanding, discovery, and synthesis of 2D materials enabled by machine learning
Authors: Ryu Byunghoon , Wang Luqing , Pu Haihui , Chan Maria K. Y. , Chen Junhong
Published: March 2022

Machine learning (ML) is becoming an effective tool for studying 2D materials.
Improvement of the photostability of cycloalkylamine-7-sulfonyl-2,1,3-benzoxadiazole-based fluorescent dyes by replacing the dimethylamino substituent with cyclic amino rings
Authors: Mehta Pramod Kumar , Ryu Ki , Kim Chan Kyung , Lee Keun-Hyeung
Published: March 2022

Replacing the dimethylamino substituent of a fluorescent probe with 3- and 4-membered cyclic amine rings led to significantly enhanced photostability.
H2O2-Responsive prodrug-nanosystem based on auto-fluorescent perylenetetracarboxylic diimide hinders the foaming progress in RAW264.7 cells
Authors: Li Zhi , Xue Changning , Zhang Lifen , Zhang Yuman , Yu Yao , Liu Qianrui , Guo XinHong , Zhang ZhenZhong
Published: March 2022

Schematic of the synthesis and functional mode of the H2O2responsive prodrug-nanosystem. HA–PBI–Tre can respond to H2O2, release model drug, and inhibit the foaming progress.
A Fitts' law evaluation and comparison for human and manipulator on touch task
Authors: Guo Xinwei
Published: March 2022

In the near future, robots are believed to be assistants and collaborators for mankind, and robots will operate the same user interfaces with humans. Therefore, a question naturally arises whether an interface originally designed for humans is also suitable for an ordinary robot. The question is explored and discussed by considering the kinematic difference between those of humans and ordinary robots in their natural operation ways on user interface. Methodologically, Fitts' law and several motor‐related factors, such as touch accuracy, tapping efficiency, etc, are used as the evaluation principles in operations. The operation difference between humans and robot on a classic pointing task on 2D touch screen is symmetrically analysed and compared. It was found that whether the robot could finish the tasks largely related to the ratio of robot's max touch error and target width. It is believed the exploration in this work provides valuable cues for future design of user interface and intelligent algorithm in human–robot collaboration.
Analysis on accuracy of rotor‐locked transient‐response‐based vibration model for switched reluctance machines
Authors: Li Bingchu , Dong Zikang , Huang Yixiang , Liu Chengliang
Published: March 2022

This paper investigates the accuracy of rotor‐locked transient‐response (RLTR)‐based vibration model for switched reluctance machines (SRM). RLTR is stator vibration stimulated by abrupt change of radial force when turning off one phase of SRM with rotor being locked, the total vibration of SRM can be modelled as linear superposition of RLTR series. An electromechanical model is built to clarify the generation of SRM vibration, it is revealed that some velocity‐depend terms in electromechanical model would be neglected when rotor is locked, it leads to inevitable difference of RLRT between rotor‐locked condition and rotational condition, the difference is illustrated through multi‐physics simulation. A harmonic radial force model is proposed to quantitatively evaluate the accuracy of RLTR‐based vibration model, radial force spectrums with locked rotor and rotational rotor are compared to predict relative error between RLTR‐based vibration and actual vibration. The influence of turn‐off angle and velocity on accuracy of RLTR‐based vibration model is also analysed. The accuracy of RLTR‐based vibration model is evaluated through experiment on 3‐phase 12/8 SRM, the results showed that: (1) the accuracy of RLTR‐based vibration model is impacted by turn‐off angle and velocity; (2) relative error between RLTR‐based vibration and actual vibration can be predicted using harmonic radial force model. This paper illustrates the generation mechanism of modelling error for commonly used RLTR‐based vibration model of SRM, the proposed error prediction method could lead to improved accuracy on SRM vibration model through error compensation.
Metal enhanced fluorescence of different metallic nanoclusters deposited on silver dendritic nanostructures
Authors: Sabzalipoor Hamed , Karimi Elham , Nikkhah Maryam , Abbasian Sara , Moshaii Ahmad
Published: March 2022

Plasmonic nanoclusters (NCs) have been introduced as new fluorescent materials that have low toxicity and do not undergo photo‐bleaching. Several factors including size and type of the NCs, surface chemistry and even solvent affect their luminescence. Despite extensive studies on tuning the fluorescence properties of NCs by manipulation of the above‐mentioned factors, very few researches have been focused on metal enhanced fluorescence (MEF) of them. In this study, the fabrication of silver dendritic nanostructured surfaces (DNSs) with numerous hotspots and unique plasmonic properties were optimized and DNSs were used as the substrates for fluorescence enhancement of NCs. NCs made of gold, silver and copper were synthesized by different stabilizing agents and compared with each other in terms of their MEF characteristics. The results showed that the stabilizing agent, the synthesis method and type of NCs affected their fluorescence enhancement by the DNSs. Copper NCs stabilized by bovine serum albumin (BSA) had the highest rate of fluorescence enhancement, with enhancement factor of 4.8 ± 0.8. Gold NCs synthesized by glutathione (GSH) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) demonstrated 3.9 ± 0.6 and 3.1 ± 0.4 fold fluorescence enhancement, respectively. The possibility of fluorescence enhancement of NCs in the vicinity of plasmonic nano‐structures introduces attractive platforms for sensing purposes.
Water ortho-to-para ratio in the coma of comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko
Authors: Cheng Y.-C. , Bockelée-Morvan D. , Roos-Serote M. , Crovisier J. , Debout V. , Erard S. , Drossart P. , Leyrat C. , Capaccioni F. , Filacchione G. , Dubernet M.-L. , Encrenaz T.
Published: March 2022

Context. Abundance ratios of the nuclear-spin isomers of H2O and NH3 have been measured in about two dozen comets, with a mean value corresponding to a nuclear-spin temperature of ~30 K. The real meaning of these unequilibrated nuclear-spin abundance ratios is still debated. However, an equilibrated water ortho-to-para ratio of 3 is also commonly observed.

Aims. The H channel of the Visible and Infrared Thermal Imaging Spectrometer (VIRTIS-H) on board Rosetta provided high-resolution 2.5–2.9 μm spectra of H2O vapour in the coma of comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko (67P), which are suitable for the determination of the ortho-to-para ratio (OPR) of water in this comet.

Methods. A large dataset of VIRTIS-H spectra obtained in limb-sounding viewing geometry was analysed, covering heliocentric distances from 1.24 to 2.73 au and altitudes from a few hundred metres to > 100 km. The OPR, together with the H2O rotational temperature and column density, were derived for each spectra using a database of fluorescence synthetic spectra that include both fundamental and hot vibrational water bands. The weak lines of the v1, v1 + v3 − v1 and v2 + v3 − v2 bands in the 2.774–2.910 μm range were used to calculate by how much the strong v3 band centred at 2.67 μm is attenuated due to optical depth effects, expressed by the attenuation factor fatten.

Results. Most ortho-to-para ratio determinations are strongly affected by opacity effects, as demonstrated by the observed anti-correlation between the OPR and the column density, and the correlation between the OPR and attenuation factor fatten. Based on both radiative transfer calculations and OPR values obtained in low-opacity conditions, we derive an OPR of 2.94 ± 0.06 for comet 67P. Measured water rotational temperatures show a decrease in gas kinetic temperature with increasing altitude caused by adiabatic cooling. Heliocentric variations are also observed, with warmer temperatures near perihelion.

Conclusions. The water ortho-to-para ratio measured in the coma of 67P is consistent with laboratory experiments showing that water vapour that has thermally desorbed from water ice has a statistical value of 3, regardless of the past formation process of water ice.
Functional evaluation of height–diameter relationships and tree development in an Australian subtropical rainforest
Authors: Howell Steven R. , Song Guo-Zhang Michael , Chao Kuo-Jung , Doley David
Published: March 2022

Context Allometric equations describing the relationships between tree height (H) and breast height diameter (D) should be both statistically efficient and biologically relevant. Aims To determine whether selected allometric equations can meet established criteria for both efficiency and relevance. Methods Nine equations were compared to define the H–D relationships of 1122 individuals and 18 species from an Australian subtropical rainforest. Key results Three-parameter asymptotic equations described initial slope (a), curvature (b), and asymptotic height (Ha). Each equation was evaluated for precision (root mean square error, RMSE) and bias in H estimates, and ease of interpretation of function parameters. For both individual species and all stems, a non-rectangular hyperbola (NRH) provided almost equally high precision and low bias as did the statistically most parsimonious generalised Michaelis–Menten function, plus linear parameter values easily relatable to tree structural and functional attributes. The value of NRH a increased linearly with wood density for canopy species, but not for understorey and subdominant species, whereas the value of NRH b decreased as Ha increased from understorey to canopy species. Conclusions Species within understorey, subdominant, and canopy structural groups shared similar ranges of parameter values within groups that reflect both intrinsic architectural and developmental patterns, and environmental limitations to Ha. Implications The NRH can be used to visualise both early and later tree development stages and differences among the growth patterns of species occupying different positions within a forest.
Cover crops, green manures and herbal leys.
Authors: Pinhey Sally , Tebbs Margaret
Published: March 2022

This chapter discusses cover crops, green manures and herbal leys. Cover crops comprise a range of plant species, preferably a mix that includes legumes, brassicas and grasses. Green manures have an emphasis on adding organic matter and nitrogen to the soil, especially where there are no animals to add manure. Herbal leys comprise a seed mixture of fast-growing grasses, legumes and other herbaceous plants, which can aid livestock health, provide grazing and improve soil fertility. The plant species used in cover crops, green manures and herbal leys are also presented in this chapter.
Phytoremediators.
Authors: Pinhey Sally , Tebbs Margaret
Published: March 2022

This chapter discusses phytoremediators. These species have evolved mechanisms to tolerate various metals and to accumulate them in their tissues. A selection of plants commonly used for phytoremediation such as aspen (Populus spp.), berseem or Egyptian clover (Trifolium alexandrinum), Brassica juncea, Brassica carinata, common reed (Phragmites australis), moso bamboo (Phyllostachys pubescens), pennycress (Thlaspi caerulescens), reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea), sunflower (Helianthus annuus), tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), and willow (Salix spp.) are discussed in detail in this chapter.
Illustrations, with information on each plant.
Authors: Pinhey Sally , Tebbs Margaret
Published: March 2022

This chapter presents plant illustrations, with climate range and soil types, along with their soil conditioning properties and each plant is presented with a comprehensive description opposite a detailed full-colour illustration.
Weeds and invasive plants.
Authors: Pinhey Sally , Tebbs Margaret
Published: March 2022

This chapter describes some of the more common weeds and invasive plants and methods to control them. Species mentioned include Alopecurus myosuroides, Pteridium aquilinum, Elymus repens, Cirsium arvense, Rumex obtusifolius, R. crispus, R × pratensis, Equisetum arvense, Ulex europaeus, U. gallii, U. minor, Reynoutria japonica, Senecio jacobaea, Juncus conglomeratus, J. effusus, and J. inflexus.
Study on characterization of bio-oil derived from sugarcane bagasse (Saccharum barberi) for application as biofuel
Authors: Kabir Ahmad Syahirah Faraheen , Md Ali Umi Fazara , Md Isa Khairuddin , Gopinath Subash C B
Published: March 2022

Lignocellulosic biomass especially, sugarcane bagasse Saccharum barberi sp., appears to be a more suitable material for partial substitution of transport fuel (diesel) than Saccharum officinarum sp., due to its structural similarity to transport fuel (diesel). Besides that, less research has been implemented on this type of species. Bio-oil can be implemented as biodiesel by processing it further using chemical reactions such as hydrodeoxygenation and cracking with zeolite catalyst. Hence, the purpose of this study is to determine the compatibility of pyrolytic bio-oil produced from Saccharum barberi sp. in comparison with S. officinarum sp. for use as transport fuel (diesel) in automotive applications. This purpose can be accomplished by comparing the oil’s bio-physiochemical properties for both species. The experiment is conducted on a bench-scale on which bio-oil of Saccharum barberi sp. is secured from the catalytic pyrolysis process at a temperature of 500°C and heating rate of 50°C/min with the addition of ZSM-Zeolite catalyst. Thermogravimetric analysis of Saccharum barberi sp. reveals that cellulose is more reactive than lignin, evidenced by the high percentage of weight loss at temperatures ranging from 251°C to 390°C. The high contents of carbon (40.7%) and hydrogen (6.50%), as well as slight traces of sulphur (0.08%) and nitrogen (0.85%), in bio-oil (Saccharum barberi sp.) indicate that it is conceivable to be partially used for replacement in biofuel production. Overall physiochemical properties reveal that Saccharum barberi sp. shows more potential than S. officinarum sp. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis reveals that bio-oil consists of high amounts of aromatic hydrocarbon (26.2%), phenol (14.8%) and furfural (13.0%) in comparison to S. officinarum sp.

Biofuel was produced from sugarcane bagasse (Saccharum barberi sp.) in a bench-scale pyrolysis reactor at 500°C using a zeolite catalyst. Measured properties of the biofuel make it suitable for partial substitution of diesel in transport fuel.
The prognostic impact of the ground-glass opacity component in nearly pure-solid stage IA non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Kamigaichi Atsushi , Tsutani Yasuhiro , Mimae Takahiro , Miyata Yoshihiro , Shimada Yoshihisa , Ito Hiroyuki , Nakayama Haruhiko , Ikeda Norihiko , Okada Morihito
Published: March 2022

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess the clinical effects of a small ground-glass opacity (GGO) component of a radiologically nearly pure-solid tumour on tumour aggressiveness in patients with clinical stage IA non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODS

Data of 988 patients with clinical stage IA NSCLC who had a consolidation-to-tumour ratio of ≥0.75 on high-resolution computed tomography were retrospectively analysed. The cumulative incidence of recurrence (CIR) was compared between patients with GGO (nearly pure-solid, n = 297) and those without GGO (pure-solid, n = 691).

RESULTS

In patients with clinical T1mi + T1a and T1b, the CIR was significantly higher in the pure-solid group than in the nearly pure-solid group (5-year CIR, 15.2% and 19.3% vs 0% and 6.4%; P < 0.001); however, this was not the case for patients with clinical T1c (5-year CIR, 23.1% vs 26.5%; P = 0.580). In the multivariable analysis, pure-solid tumours were independently associated with a higher CIR than nearly pure-solid tumours in patients with clinical T1mi + T1a + T1b (solid tumour size ≤2 cm; subdistribution hazard ratio, 3.25; 95% confidence interval, 1.59–6.63; P = 0.001) but not in those with clinical T1c tumours (2–3 cm; subdistribution hazard ratio, 0.67; 95% confidence interval, 0.39–1.13; P = 0.130).

CONCLUSIONS

Nearly pure-solid tumours with a small GGO component influence tumour aggressiveness based on solid tumour size, with a threshold of 2 cm in patients with clinical stage IA NSCLC. For tumours sized 2–3 cm, nearly pure-solid tumours had a similar tumour aggressiveness as pure-solid tumours.
Secondary Indicators for an Evaluation and Guidance System for Quality of Care in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Centers: A Critical Review of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Quality of Care Center
Authors: Jun Shen , Jie Liang , Ren Mao , Zhihua Ran
Published: March 2022

The number of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has increased remarkably in recent years. However, the level of health care for IBD patients varies greatly among regions of China. Standardization of health care for IBD patients is essential to improve quality of care (QoC). The mission of the IBD Quality Care Evaluation Center (IBDQCC) is to establish indicators for QoC. Since 2017, the IBDQCC has developed structure, process, and outcome indicators with the steering committee of IBD specialists and methodologists; 28 core and 13 secondary IBD QoC indicators were selected using a Delphi method. Applications for certification of IBD quality care units were made voluntarily and preliminarily screened through the IBDQCC committee. Regional units had to meet all core indicators, and units of excellence were required to meet all core indicators together with an additional 50% of secondary indicators. As of 2019 and 2020, 69 IBD units (all from tertiary referral hospitals) have been certified as regional IBD units in China. The certification of excellence of the IBD units is currently undergoing auditing. The awareness of and appreciation for QoC in IBD is increasing in China, especially through the quality control evaluation program initiated by the IBDQCC, with a higher number of IBD units applying for the next round of certification. Although secondary indicators seem to play relatively minor roles in QoC, they suggest additional requirements for high-level centers.
Role of Energy Metabolism and Mitochondrial Function in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Özsoy Mihriban , Stummer, Nathalie , Zimmermann Franz A , Feichtinger René G , Sperl Wolfgang , Weghuber Daniel , Schneider Anna M
Published: March 2022

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic recurring inflammation of the intestine which can be debilitating for those with intractable disease. However, the etiopathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disorders remains to be solved. The hypothesis that mitochondrial dysfunction is a crucial factor in the disease process is being validated by an increasing number of recent studies. Thus mitochondrial alteration in conjunction with previously identified genetic predisposition, changes in the immune response, altered gut microbiota, and environmental factors (eg, diet, smoking, and lifestyle) are all posited to contribute to IBD. The implicated factors seem to affect mitochondrial function or are influenced by mitochondrial dysfunction, which explains many of the hallmarks of the disease. This review summarizes the results of studies reporting links between mitochondria and IBD that were available on PubMed through March 2021. The aim of this review is to give an overview of the current understanding of the role of mitochondria in the pathogenesis of IBD.
Pretrial risk assessment instruments in the US criminal justice system—what lessons can be learned for the European Union
Authors: Novokmet Ante , Tomičić Zvonimir , Vinković Zoran
Published: March 2022

This article explores the possibilities of using artificial intelligence (AI) in the European judicial area with a special emphasis on risk assessment instruments and the justification of their use in determining the likelihood that a defendant at large will seek to thwart the goal of criminal proceedings. In this regard, experiences in the application of various risk assessment instruments in US judicial practice are first analysed. Then the European normative framework established at the level of the Council of Europe and European Union (EU) law is considered with special emphasis on the ‘Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down harmonized rules on artificial intelligence’ as a key normative act that will determine the long-term preconditions for the application of the risk assessment instruments in the criminal proceedings of EU Member States. Finally, an attempt is made to give answers to some specific questions that arose from the implementation of AI in EU criminal justice systems taking into account the presumption of innocence, the right to an objective and impartial judge and the principle of proportionality.
Human Right Concerns in Vietnam’s Cybersecurity Law: From International Discourse to a Comparative Perspective
Authors: Nguyen Quoc-Tan-Trung , Bui Thi-Hong-Ninh , Phung Hong-Thanh
Published: March 2022

Vietnam's Cyber Security Law, which officially came into effect on the first day of 2019, is considered by the Vietnamese authorities to be an important advance of the Vietnamese legal system in catching up with new information technology issues and addressing the challenges of the Revolution 4.0. The legislation, however, did not come without opposition. Specifically, international dissatisfaction with the law was clearly articulated in January 2019 in the Universal Periodic Review—a major human rights protection mechanism under the management of the UN Human Rights Council; and also, in the Human Rights Committee hearing on Vietnam's implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights in March of that year.

Within its limited resources, this article first tries to identify and evaluate recommendations and comments during the two events in relation to the Cyber Security Law, made by international actors including states, non-governmental organizations, and authoritative United Nations institutions. With the data, the article can then categorize three vital human rights concerns regarding the law, according to international perception. They comprise (1) the legal philosophy of ‘national security’; (2) obligations imposed on internet businesses; and (3) judicial review/remedy. Finally, the research engages in an extensive comparative analysis between these concerns and international practices to reach different conclusions on their compatibility and possible solutions.

The authors believe that constructive criticisms from the international community can be carefully garnered in order to contribute to the refinement of Vietnam’s cyber-security laws in the future.
Tophaceous pseudogout of the temporomandibular joint extending into the cranium: a case report with literature review
Authors: Takeda Kei , Miyamoto Ikuya , Abe Ryosuke , Kawai Tadashi , Ohashi Yu , Yamada Hiroyuki
Published: March 2022

Pseudogout is a disease characterized by calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition. Involvement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is rare. We herein report a case of tophaceous pseudogout of the TMJ with cranial extension. An 83-year-old woman was referred to our institution for treatment of right TMJ pain. The patient’s medical and family histories were unremarkable. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a mass of about 35 mm in diameter compressing the bottom of the right temporal lobe of the brain. Based on a clinical diagnosis of a right TMJ tumour, biopsy was performed under general anaesthesia. The histopathological diagnosis was pseudogout. Considering the risk of surgically induced brain damage, the patient’s advanced age and her relatively good quality of life, the treatment plan simply involved the observation of the lesion. Fourteen months after biopsy, the patient’s activities of daily living remained unchanged and she had no TMJ pain.
Promoting Psychological Safety in Healthcare Organizations
Authors: Murray John S , Kelly Sarah , Hanover Christine
Published: March 2022

Healthcare organizations across the United States have begun the journey to high reliability as one method for improving patient safety. Being a High Reliability Organization (HRO) requires constant vigilance for ensuring the delivery of system-wide excellence in patient quality and safety. Establishing a foundation for high reliability requires the engagement of personnel across the organization from frontline staff to executive leadership. Staff must feel comfortable voicing concerns in order to be fully engaged. However, we believe this is easier said than done. The purpose of this article is to describe the importance of psychological safety along the journey to becoming an HRO. Additionally, strategies for promoting a psychologically safe work environment are provided.
A Novel Technique Using Ultrasonic Shears Versus Traditional Methods of Reduction of Bilateral Labia Minora Hypertrophy: A Retrospective Case-Control Study
Authors: Le Thuan H , Lockrow Ernest G , Endicott Scott P
Published: March 2022

Introduction

To compare the clinical outcomes of bilateral labia minora hypertrophy reduction using ultrasonic shears versus traditional methods.

Materials and Methods

In this retrospective study, we evaluate the surgical outcomes of 11 women who underwent bilateral labia minora hypertrophy reduction using ultrasonic shears to 14 women who underwent the same procedure using various traditional methods between January 1, 2015 and February 29, 2020 in a single center. The primary outcomes evaluated are total operative time, estimated blood loss, and postoperative pain. Secondary outcomes include postoperative complications and total admission time. The statistical analyses used were exact Wilconxon Rank and Fisher’s exact test.

Results

25 total bilateral labiaplasty procedures were included in the analysis. 11 procedures were performed using ultrasonic shears and 14 were performed using traditional methods. The mean reduction operative time for the ultrasonic shears technique when compared with traditional methods was 43.25 minutes (22.82 minutes versus 66.07 minutes, P = .0002). A statistically significant but non-clinically significant difference in estimated blood loss was noted. No statistically significant differences existed with postoperative pain score, total admission time, or postoperative complications.

Conclusions

Ultrasonic shears significantly reduce the time needed for the reduction of bilateral labia minora hypertrophy and therefore should be considered by surgeons as a useful tool in increasing the efficiency of this procedure.
Sulforaphane Effects on Cognition and Symptoms in First and Early Episode Schizophrenia: A Randomized Double-Blind Trial
Authors: Hei Gangrui , Smith Robert C , Li Ranran , Ou Jianjun , Song Xueqing , Zheng Yingjun , He Yiqun , Arriaza Jen , Fahey Jed W , Cornblatt Brian , Kang Dongyu , Yang Ye , Huang Jing , Wang Xiaoyi , Cadenhead Kristin , Zhang Mimei , Davis John M , Zhao Jingping , Jin Hua , Wu Renrong
Published: March 2022

Objective

Cognitive symptoms are associated with significant dysfunction in schizophrenia. Oxidative stress and inflammation involving histone deacetylase (HDAC) have been implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Sulforaphane has antioxidant properties and is an HDAC inhibitor. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of sulforaphane on cognition dysfunction for patients with schizophrenia.

Methods

This double-blind randomized 22-week trial of patients with first-episode schizophrenia was conducted in four psychiatric institutions in China. Patients were randomized to three groups (two doses of sulforaphane vs. placebo) and symptomatic and cognitive assessments were completed at multiple times. The primary outcome measure was change in the MATRICS Composite score. The secondary outcomes were change in MATRICS Domain scores, PANSS Total Scores and change in side-effects.

Results

A total of 172 patients were randomized and 151 patients had at least one follow up evaluation. There were no significant effects of sulforaphane, on the primary outcome, MATRICS overall composite score. However, on secondary outcomes, sulforaphane did significantly improve performance scores on MATRICS battery Domains of spatial working memory (F = 5.68, P = 0.004), reasoning-problem solving (F = 2.82, P = 0.063), and verbal learning (F = 3.56, P = 0.031). There were no effects on PANSS symptom scores. Sulforaphane was well tolerated.

Conclusion

Although the primary outcome was not significant, improvement in three domains of the MATRICS battery, suggests a positive cognitive effect on some cognitive functions, which warrants further clinical trials to further assess whether sulforaphane may be a useful adjunct for treating some types of cognitive deficits in schizophrenia.