bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pre-treatment Pain Symptoms Influence Antidepressant Response to Ketamine in Depressive Patients
Authors: Lan Xiaofeng , Zhou Yanling , Wang Chengyu , Li Weicheng , Zhang Fan , Liu Haiyan , Fu Ling , Wu Kai , McIntyre Roger S. , Ning Yuping
Published: March 2022

Background

Pain strongly coexists with depression. Ketamine has great analgesic and antidepressant effects, acting as a promising role in treating depression with pain. Few studies have evaluated impact of pain symptoms on antidepressant effect of ketamine infusions. Thus, present study investigated whether pain symptoms in individuals with depression moderate response to ketamine.

Methods

One hundred and four individuals with major depressive disorder and bipolar depression received six intravenous infusions of ketamine. The Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) was administered at baseline, the next morning after each infusion and 2 weeks (Day 26) after the last infusion. Pain symptoms were collected at baseline using the short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ).

Results

The prevalence of pain in patients with depression was 48.8%. Mix model analyses showed that pre-treatment pain symptoms assessed by each domain of SF-MPQ significantly moderated antidepressant response to six infusions of ketamine from baseline to day 26 (all p < 0.05). Then follow-up simple slopes analyses suggested that all patients across groups showed a significant symptomatic improvement after ketamine infusions (all p < 0.05), and patients with severe pain (across all domains of SF-MPQ) had greater improvement in depressive symptoms than those with mild pain or non-pain (all p < 0.05).

Conclusion

A significant and rapid improvement in depressive symptoms was observed in patients with depression and pain after ketamine treatment. Ketamine may be a novel and promising antidepressant preferentially for the therapy of depression with severe pain.
Prevalence and Differences of Depression, Anxiety, and Substance Use Between Chinese College-Age Students Studying in China and America During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic
Authors: Li Mingsheng , Sun Wangdi , Wang Ye , Qi Chang
Published: March 2022

Introduction

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) swept the globe and harmfully influenced the mental health and behaviors of the college student population. This study aims to examine the prevalence and difference of mental health and the substance use problems of the Chinese college-age students studying in China and America (CSA) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

One thousand five hundred four students participated in this study. A total of 42.12% of students are enrolled in Chinese colleges, and 57.78% of students are enrolled in American colleges, aged 17–23 years (x¯±s = 19.90 ± 1.50). Binary logistic regression and independent t-test were used in this study to find the predictor variables and association among mental health, substance use problems, and student population.

Results

The two student groups had a statistical difference in General Anxiety Disorder-7 scale, alcohol, medicines, drinks, drugs and cigarettes (p < 0.01). The students suffering depression problems from the two groups have statistical significance with drinks (odds ratio = 0.89, 95% confidence interval = 0.81–0.97, p < 0.05; odds ratio = 1.11, 95% confidence interval = 1.04–1.19, p < 0.01). CSA experiencing anxiety problem had a significant association with alcohol, drinks, cigarette, and desserts (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

This is the first cross-sectional study focusing on the comparison of the Chinese college-age students' mental health and substance use problems who are studying in China and America during the pandemic. Our study revealed severe mental health and substance use problems in both student groups, particularly in the CSA during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings of our study also highlight the evidence to find more interventions and preventions to solve the different mental health and substance use problems for college students.
Psychological and Psychopharmacological Interventions in Psychocardiology
Authors: Kahl Kai G. , Stapel Britta , Correll Christoph U.
Published: March 2022

Patients with mental disorders have an increased risk to develop cardiovascular disease (CVD), and CVD are frequently comorbid with especially adjustment, anxiety and depressive disorders. Therefore, clinicians need to be aware of effective and safe psychological and pharmacological treatment strategies for patients with comorbid CVD and mental disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy and third-wave of cognitive-behavioral therapy are effective for patients with CVD and mental disorders. Internet-based psychological treatments may also be considered. In more severe cases, psychopharmacological drugs are frequently used. Although generally well tolerated and efficacious, drug- and dose-dependent side effects require consideration. Among antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, selective serotonin and noradrenalin reuptake inhibitors, and newer antidepressants, such as mirtazapine, bupropion, agomelatine, and vortioxetine, can be considered, while tricyclic antidepressants should be avoided due to their cardiac side effects. Mood stabilizers have been associated with arrhythmias, and some first- and second-generation antipsychotics can increase QTc and metabolic side effects, although substantial differences exist between drugs. Benzodiazepines are generally safe in patients with CVD when administered short-term, and may mitigate symptoms of acute coronary syndrome. Laboratory and ECG monitoring is always recommended in psychopharmacological drug-treated patients with CVD. Presence of a heart disease should not exclude patients from necessary interventions, but may require careful risk-benefit evaluations. Effectively and safely addressing mental disorders in patients with CVD helps to improve both conditions. Since CVD increase the risk for mental disorders and vice versa, care providers need to screen for these common comorbidities to comprehensively address the patients’ needs.
Survey Responses of School Closures During the COVID-19 Outbreak in Taiwan
Authors: Chao Kuo-Yu , Hsiao Tung-Yuan , Cheng Wei
Published: March 2022

Background

Taiwan faced a surge of COVID-19 infections in May 2021. Because new cases were quickly increasing, parents called for school closures. A national parent group used an online survey to collect opinions about upcoming school closings planned by the Ministry of Education. This study evaluated the results of the survey for all respondents and investigated the level of viral transmission following school closures among students in Taiwan.

Methods

An online survey titled “Survey of Opinions of School Closures during the Current COVID-19 Outbreak” (SOSC-COVID-19) was designed by the national parent association and then distributed to members of the community throughout Taiwan via local parent groups from May 17 to 18, 2021. The survey included an open-ended respondents' opinions about school closures. Differences among regions and socioeconomic scores (SES) were analyzed with chi-square tests.

Results

A total of 8,703 completed survey forms data were analyzed. Nearly all respondents (7,973, 91.6%) approved of school closures; there were no differences of opinions inside and outside municipalities or by regional SES scores. Only 8.4% of respondents were opposed to any type of school closure, believing parents should decide whether their child attended school, which also did not vary with region or SES score. Qualitative feedback from parent and teacher responders indicated students' health and economic impacts were additional concerns that influenced their choice of whether the government or parents should decide about school closures. On the afternoon of May 18, 2021, the government of Taiwan closed all schools. Although a spike in new cases of COVID-19 occurred among students 10 days after school closures, over the next 40 days new cases declined, falling to zero by July 5th.

Conclusions

Despite the inability of nationwide school closures to completely halt transmission of the virus within families during the COVID-19 outbreak, school closures helped to impede transmission between students.
Improving Patient Safety in General Hospitals Using Structured Handoffs: Outcomes From a National Project
Authors: Toren Orly , Lipschuetz Michal , Lehmann Arielle , Regev Gil , Arad Dana
Published: March 2022

Background

Promoting quality and patient safety is one of the health policy pillars of Israel's Ministry of Health. Communication among healthcare professionals is of utmost importance and can be improved using a standardized, well-known handoff tool such as the Introduction, Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendations (ISBAR). This study aims to present implementation process and participants' satisfaction of a national project that used a standardized tool for team communication.

Methods

This national intervention project included process implementation teams from 17 Israeli general hospitals evaluating the ISBAR implementation process for transferring patients from intensive care units to medical/surgical wards. The project, conducted between January 2017 and March 2018, used Fischer's test and logistic regression. The project evaluation was based on the participants' assessment of and satisfaction with the handoff process.

Results

Eighty-seven process implementers completed the questionnaire. A statistically significant increase in satisfaction scores in terms of four variables (p < 0.001) was observed following the implementation of the project. Nurses reported higher satisfaction at the end of the process (0.036). Participants who perceived less missing information during handoffs were more satisfied with the process of information flow between wards (84.9%) than those who perceived more missing information (15.6%). Participants who responded that there was no need to improve information flow were more satisfied with the project information flow (95.6%) compared to the group which responded that it was necessary to improve information flow (58.2%). Three out of four variables predicted satisfaction with the process. Being a nurse also predicted satisfaction with information flow with a point estimate of 2.4. The C value of the total model was 0.87.

Conclusions

Implementation of a safety project at a national level requires careful planning and the close involvement of the participating teams. A standardized instrument, a well-defined process, and external controls to monitor and manage the project are essential for success. Disparities found in the responses of nurses vs. physicians suggest the need for a different approach for each profession in planning and executing a similar project in the future.
Selecting Privacy-Enhancing Technologies for Managing Health Data Use
Authors: Jordan Sara , Fontaine Clara , Hendricks-Sturrup Rachele
Published: March 2022

Privacy protection for health data is more than simply stripping datasets of specific identifiers. Privacy protection increasingly means the application of privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs), also known as privacy engineering. Demands for the application of PETs are not yet met with ease of use or even understanding. This paper provides a scope of the current peer-reviewed evidence regarding the practical use or adoption of various PETs for managing health data privacy. We describe the state of knowledge of PETS for the use and exchange of health data specifically and build a practical perspective on the steps needed to improve the standardization of the application of PETs for diverse uses of health data.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices About COVID-19 Among Healthcare Workers in Iran During the First Wave of the Pandemic
Authors: Hatami Hossein , Kolahi Ali-Asghar , Ghamari Seyyed-Hadi , Abbasi-Kangevari Mohsen
Published: March 2022

Background and Objective

Investigating the knowledge, attitudes, and practices about the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among healthcare workers (HCWs) could be an early step toward identifying their potential educational needs and possible factors involved in misinformation. The objective of this study was to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices about COVID-19 among healthcare workers in Iran during the first wave of the pandemic.

Materials and Methods

The current descriptive-correlational study was conducted during the 1st days of the COVID-19 epidemic in Iran from March 24th to April 3rd, 2020. Participants included all healthcare workers at hospitals, including physicians, dentists, pharmacists, nurses, midwives, laboratory and radiology assistants, and other hospital professionals during the study period. Data were collected through an online self-administrative questionnaire.

Results

The responses of 1,310 participants were analyzed, of which 900 (68.7%) were female. The mean (SD) knowledge score was 25.4 (3.3), 84.7% out of 30. More than 90% of participants correctly recognized the main symptoms, transmission route, and preventive measures for COVID-19. The mean (SD) attitude score was 16.9 (1.1), 93.9% out of 18. Most participants agreed with keeping safe physical distancing, self-isolation upon symptom onset, and city lockdowns. The mean (SD) score for general practices about COVID-19 was 20.8 (2.0), 86.7% of 24.

Conclusion

The knowledge and practice of HCWs were appropriate, and their attitudes were mainly positive. However, there is still room for improvement regarding concerning misinformation and quackeries about COVID-19.
COVID-19 and Mortality, Depression, and Suicide in the Polish Population
Authors: Rogalska Anna , Syrkiewicz-Świtała Magdalena
Published: March 2022

Aim

The study was aimed at assessing the mortality of the population, the occurrence of the phenomenon of depression and suicide before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Data on total mortality in Poland in 2017–2021 came from the report of the Ministry of Health. Data on the number of sick leave due to mental disorders were taken from the report of the ZUS (Social Insurance Institution in Poland). Data on the number of suicides came from police statistics.

Results

Increase in the number of deaths in Poland in 2021 compared to the 2017–2019 average – 26.86%. In 2018–2020, the greatest number of fatal suicides was recorded in the age group – 60–64 years (in 2018 N = 565; 10.90%; in 2020 N = 524; 10.15%).

Conclusions

In the years 2020-2021, an increase in mortality was observed in Poland compared to the previous years. Moreover, in 2020 there was an increase in sickness absence due to ICD-10 F.32 and an increase in the number of suicide attempts.
Perspective: Young Workers at Higher Risk for Carcinogen Exposures
Authors: Sweet Caitlin M. , Telfer Joanne M. , Palmer Alison L. , Fazel Sajjad S. , Peters Cheryl E.
Published: March 2022

Young workers, those under the age of 25, are considered a vulnerable working population, primarily due to their increased risk of injury. In this study we investigate if young workers may also be at an increased risk for occupational exposure to carcinogens. Using the 2006 and 2016 Canadian Census of Population and previously obtained CAREX Canada data, this study aimed to identify sectors and occupations that have high proportions of young workers and where potential exists for exposure to known and suspected carcinogens. Key groups where young workers are likely at a higher risk for occupational exposure to carcinogens were identified. Our work shows that young workers in construction, outdoor occupations, and farming are key groups that warrant further investigation. These specific groups are highlighted because of the large number of young workers employed in these sectors/situations, the high number of possible carcinogen exposures, and the potential for higher risk behavior patterns that typically occur in these types of jobs. While there is no data available to develop carcinogen exposure estimates specific to young workers, it is our perspective that young workers are likely at a higher risk for occupational exposure to carcinogens. Our findings identify opportunities to improve the occupational health and safety for this vulnerable population, particularly for young construction workers, farm workers, and outdoor workers.
Challenges of Utilizing Medical Big Data in Reproductive Health Research
Authors: Dong Tianyu , Zhu Min , Li Rui , Wang Xu
Published: March 2022

In the background of the “Three-Child Policy” introduced by the Chinese government, reproductive health has become one of the most important public health issues. With the promotion of digitization management of medical care institutions for women and children in the country, there will be chances to acquire medical big data of obstetrics and pediatrics. Here the authors are presenting their opinions on the challenges of the management and utilization of reproductive big data.
Forecasting the Future Sustainability of Technology Choices: Qualitative Predictive Validity of Models as a Complement to Quantitative Uncertainty
Authors: Huppes Gjalt , Schaubroeck Thomas
Published: March 2022

To support product and technology choices toward a more sustainable future, diverse assessment methods are used, involving life cycle assessment (LCA). This raises the question of their predictive validity. Whereas, many studies focus on quantitative uncertainty, here the main aim is to address the complementary qualitative aspect of the LCA-related model variants. To that end, we first specify three general influential aspects: (1) future conditions, (2) needed predictivity, and (3) mechanism coverage. These have been translated into a more concrete checklist for qualitative predictive validity. Second, we categorized the model variants into a limited number of basic model types, based on five predefined modeling characteristics. These model types show increasingly complex steps for investigating the future, illustrated with energy systems for transport. Different answers to the same questions may result. With increasing model complexity, the relevant questions may change from analysing specific products, to more general product systems, and next to product-technology domain systems. As a third step, the qualitative predictive validity of the nine modeling types is evaluated using the developed checklist. All have limited predictive validity, increasingly so for longer time horizons, as they lack most causal mechanisms, especially the institutional drivers for development and employment of technologies to emerge. Also, the future is only partially determined. For supporting choices, the conclusion is that the comparative analysis regarding long-term also broader product-technology systems has limited predictive validity. As a solution, conditional statements may show directions for explorative analysis resulting in highly tentative advice on potentially attractive directions.
The Soil Fungi: A Web of Life That Protects Trees and Fight Climate Change
Authors: Azevedo Olivia , Ashwood Frank
Published: March 2022

Ectomycorrhizal fungi are a type of fungi that develops a mutually beneficial relationship with plant roots. These fungi form ancient and extremely successful partnerships with forest trees worldwide. The trees and their associated fungi have developed a trading partnership: the fungi help the plants reach hard-to-get nutrients, and, in return, the fungi get constant and uninterrupted access to carbohydrates (such as sugars) from the plant. This largely invisible interaction affects the storage and cycling of carbon in soil and benefits plant health and nutrition. Ectomycorrhizal fungi are also important for breaking down dead plants and animals. These fungi contribute to soil biodiversity and can help us to protect our forests in the face of environmental stresses, such as climate change and excessive land use.
Doppler-Shifted Alkali D Absorption as Indirect Evidence for Exomoons
Authors: Schmidt Carl A.
Published: March 2022

Sodium and potassium signatures in transiting exoplanets can be challenging to isolate from the stellar absorption lines. Here, these challenges are discussed in the framework of Solar System observations, and transits of Mercury in particular. Radiation pressure is important for alkali gas dynamics in close-orbiting exoplanets since the D lines are efficient at resonant scattering. When the star-planet velocity is ≳10 km/s, eccentric exoplanets experience more than an order of magnitude higher radiation pressures, aiding atmospheric escape and producing a larger effective cross-section for absorbing starlight at the phase of transit. The Doppler shift also aids in isolating the planetary signature from the stellar photosphere’s absorption. Only one transiting exoplanet, HD 80606b, is presently thought to have both this requisite Doppler shift and alkali absorption. Radiation pressure on a planetary exosphere naturally produces blue-shifted absorption, but at levels insufficient to account for the extreme Doppler shifts that have been inferred from potassium transit measurements of this system. In the absence of clear mechanisms to generate such a strong wind, it is described how this characteristic could arise from an exomoon-magnetosphere interaction, analogous to Io-Jupiter. At low contrasts presented here, follow-up transit spectra of HD 80606b cannot rule out a potassium jet or atmospheric species with a broad absorption structure. However, it is evident that line absorption within the imaging passbands fails to explain the narrow-band photometry that has been reported in-transit. New observations of energetic alkalis produced by the Io-Jupiter interaction are also presented, which illustrate that energetic sodium Doppler structure offers a more valuable marker for the presence of an exomoon than potassium.
Running Together: How Sports Partners Keep You Running
Authors: Franken Rob , Bekhuis Hidde , Tolsma Jochem
Published: March 2022

We examined how recreational runners benefit from running with others to maintain a consistent training regimen over time. We used data from the ABS project (“Always Keep Active”). Our sample consisted of more than 800 individuals who had registered to participate in the 2019 edition of the 7K or 15K Seven Hills Run (Nijmegen, The Netherlands) for the first time. Taking advantage of this three-wave, individual-level panel data, we found that increases over time in the number of co-runners (of any ability level) are related to increases in the number of weekly running sessions. The probability of turning up at the Seven Hills Run was positively related to the number of equally or less competent co-runners, and to the number with whom respondents also discussed important matters on a frequent basis. Our recreational athletes differed in the extent to which they expressed social motivations to run. However, among these athletes, the positive impact of sports partners on sport outcomes did not depend on the importance of social motives. Our study demonstrates that social networks play an important role in maintaining a consistent training habit and in reaching set goals (i.e., participating in a race).
The Mayo Endoscopic Score Is a Novel Predictive Indicator for Malignant Transformation in Ulcerative Colitis: A Long-Term Follow-Up Multicenter Study
Authors: Xu Weimin , Liu Fangyuan , Tang Wenbo , Gu Yubei , Zhong Jie , Cui Long , Du Peng
Published: March 2022

Background

Data on the relative risk of malignant transformation in ulcerative colitis (UC) are insufficient. We investigated the potential value of the Mayo endoscopic score (MES) for predicting malignant transformation in patients with UC.

Methods

Data of patients with UC evaluated at our institute from June 1986 to December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. The MES used in the study indicated the results of the first colonoscopy after hospitalization. We defined MES of 0–1 as low and MES of 2–3 as high. Univariable and multivariate logistic regression models were used for statistical analysis.

Results

Among the 280 eligible patients with UC with a median follow-up time of 14 (interquartile range, 10.0–18.0) years, those with a high MES were more likely to develop malignant transformation. High MES positively correlated with the degree of malignancy and was an independent risk factor for UC-associated dysplasia and colorectal cancer (CRC, odds ratio [OR], 9.223; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.160–73.323; p = 0.036). Disease duration >5 years (OR, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.177–3.572; p = 0.011), immunomodulator use (OR, 4.314; 95% CI, 1.725–10.785; p = 0.002), biologics nonuse (OR, 3.901; 95%CI, 2.213–6.876; p < 0.001), and Hb <90 g/L (OR, 2.691; 95% CI, 1.251–5.785; p = 0.011) were contributing factors for high MES.

Conclusion

High MES could be a novel predictor of malignant transformation in UC. Clinicians should optimize the use of biologics and immunomodulators early and should actively correct anemia to improve the MES and then reduce the incidence of UC-associated dysplasia and CRC.
Ruptured Iliac Arteriovenous Fistula Presenting With Thigh Pain and Swelling: Case Report
Authors: Morton Claire , Endicott Kendal M. , Penikis Annalise , Toursavadkohi Shahab , Hall Michael R.
Published: March 2022

The presentation of abdominal arteriovenous fistulas is classically described as a triad of a pulsatile abdominal mass with a bruit, high-output heart failure, and regional venous hypertension with primarily open operative therapy. In the following case, we present the treatment of a patient who arrived with acute right heart failure and renal failure due to an arteriovenous fistula and who was successfully treated with endovascular repair.
Preoperative Changes of Lung Nodule on Computed Tomography and Their Relationship With Pathological Outcomes
Authors: Zhou Shihong , Cai Deng , Chen Chunji , Luo Jizhuang , Wang Rui
Published: March 2022

Background

Whether changes of lung nodules on computed tomography could bring us helpful information related to their pathological outcomes remained unclear.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective study was carried out among 1,185 cases of lung nodules in Shanghai Chest Hospital from January 2015 to April 2017, which did not shrink or disappear after preoperative follow-up over three months. Their imaging features, changes, and clinical characteristics were collected. A separate analysis was performed in nodules with or without growth in long-axis diameter after follow-up, searching significant changes related to nodule malignancy and the median interval of follow-up for reference. Further study was performed similarly in malignant nodules for discrimination of malignant grading.

Results

Most nodules were stable (n = 885, 75%), whereas others grew (n = 300, 25%). For predicting nodule malignancy, increase in density (>10 Hounsfield units, median follow-up of 549 days) played an important role in growing group whereas it failed in stable group, and the increase in size was less significant in growing group. For discrimination of malignant grading, increase in density (>70 Hounsfield units, median follow-up of 366 days) showed its significance in stable group, and so did increase in size in growing group (maximum diameter growth >3.3 mm, median follow-up of 549 days, or average diameter growth >3.1 mm, median follow-up of 625 days).

Conclusions

There were significant changes of lung nodules by follow-up on computed tomography, related to their pathological outcomes. The predictive power of increase in density or size varied in different situations, whereas all referred to a long-time preoperative follow-up.
Direct-Adaptive Nonlinear MPC for Spacecraft Near Asteroids
Authors: Tiwari Madhur , Coyle Eric , Prazenica Richard J.
Published: March 2022

In this work, we propose a novel controller based on a simple adaptive controller methodology and model predictive control (MPC) to generate and track trajectories of a spacecraft in the vicinity of asteroids. The control formulation is based on using adaptive control as a feedback controller and MPC as a feed-forward controller. The spacecraft system model, asteroid shape and inertia are assumed to be unknown, with the exception of the estimated total mass and angular velocity of the asteroid. The MPC is used to generate feed-forward trajectories and control input using only the mass and angular velocity of the asteroid combined with obstacle avoidance constraints. However, since the control input from MPC is calculated using only an approximated model of the asteroid, it fails to control the spacecraft in the presence of disturbances due to the asteroid’s irregular gravitational field. Hence, we propose an adaptive controller in conjunction with MPC to handle unknown disturbances. The numerical results presented in this work show that the novel control system is able to handle unknown disturbances while generating and tracking sub-optimal trajectories better than adaptive control or MPC solely.
The Association between Farmers’ Psychological Factors and Their Choice to Adopt Risk Management Strategies: The Case of Pakistan
Authors: Shah Jamal , Alharthi Majed
Published: March 2022

Agriculture is a risky business, and risk persists in all management decisions taken by a farmer at the farm level. Disrupting agricultural business severely affects the livelihood of individual farmers and negatively affects the country’s economy. To cope with risks, farmers’ tend to mitigate the harsh impact of risks by adopting risk management strategies. Such an adoption decision is affected by several factors, most importantly, the psychological factors, i.e., risk perception and risk attitude of the farmer. Therefore, the purpose of the study is to understand farmers’ risk perception and risk attitude that affect their behaviour in making decisions at the farm level in a risky prospect. The association is investigated by employing chi-squared tests and Cramér’s V. The indirect impact of socioeconomic characteristics of the farmer via their psychological factors is conducted using structural equation model (SEM) path analysis. Their direct impact, together with psychological factors, are examined using the probit model. The two models are compared statistically for better performance and interpretations of the results. From the results, we found that risk perception and risk attitude are the key driving forces of farmers’ decisions during uncertainty which induce them to adopt risk management strategies. Other key variables and their quadratic functions that significantly affect farmers’ behaviour include education level, farming experience, off-farm income, and farm size. Thus, it is vital to consider these factors while assessing farmers’ behaviour in a risky prospect.
Selection and Fitting of Mixed Models in Sugarcane Yield Trials
Authors: Salinas-Ruíz Josafhat , Hernández-Valladolid Sandra Luz , Hidalgo-Contreras Juan Valente , Romero-Padilla Juan Manuel
Published: March 2022

Mixed models are a useful tool for the analysis of sugarcane field trials in which sugarcane varieties are allocated in different locations and phenotypic traits are evaluated in the same experimental unit (plot) over time. One challenge to analyze these data is how to build a good mixed model when no experimental design is planned, because all sugarcane varieties in the area of influence of a sugar mill are planted in different years due to the age of the crop and there is no spatial information on all plots. The aim of this research was to examine and to determine the most appropriate mixed model for estimating cane stalk yield of sugarcane varieties when previously there was no planned experimental design. Cane stalk yields of 26 sugarcane genotypes harvested in 24 different locations and in different crop cycles (age) were analyzed. The randomized block nested design (plot within block) with ratoon crop as a class variable in the mixed model was the best for the mean comparisons in sugarcane genotype trials (Model 3), allowing a gain in information. The randomized block design approach helps to fit more general random effects, and the covariance structures helps to improve the performance of mixed model repeated measures. This study emphasizes the need to improve the process of finding a good enough mixed model, that is, how to define the mean structure and the best covariance structure for model sugarcane trials that enables more powerful and efficient parameter estimations. The results showed how a more appropriate mixed model might help avoid errors of judgment in sugarcane genotype recommendations for enhancing the productivity of the cane industry.
Optimizing Plant Breeding Programs for Genomic Selection
Authors: Merrick Lance F. , Herr Andrew W. , Sandhu Karansher S. , Lozada Dennis N. , Carter Arron H.
Published: March 2022

Plant geneticists and breeders have used marker technology since the 1980s in quantitative trait locus (QTL) identification. Marker-assisted selection is effective for large-effect QTL but has been challenging to use with quantitative traits controlled by multiple minor effect alleles. Therefore, genomic selection (GS) was proposed to estimate all markers simultaneously, thereby capturing all their effects. However, breeding programs are still struggling to identify the best strategy to implement it into their programs. Traditional breeding programs need to be optimized to implement GS effectively. This review explores the optimization of breeding programs for variety release based on aspects of the breeder’s equation. Optimizations include reorganizing field designs, training populations, increasing the number of lines evaluated, and leveraging the large amount of genomic and phenotypic data collected across different growing seasons and environments to increase heritability estimates, selection intensity, and selection accuracy. Breeding programs can leverage their phenotypic and genotypic data to maximize genetic gain and selection accuracy through GS methods utilizing multi-trait and, multi-environment models, high-throughput phenotyping, and deep learning approaches. Overall, this review describes various methods that plant breeders can utilize to increase genetic gains and effectively implement GS in breeding.
Cryopreservation of Testicular Tissue from Adult Red-Rumped Agoutis (Dasyprocta leporina Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Silva Andréia M. , Pereira Ana G. , Bezerra Luana G. P. , Jerônimo Moreira Samara S. , Pereira Alexsandra F. , Oliveira Moacir F. , Comizzoli Pierre , Silva Alexandre R.
Published: March 2022

This study measured the effects of different freezing techniques and permeating cryoprotectants on the preservation of testicular tissues from adult red-rumped agoutis. Tissue biopsies (3.0 mm3) from five individuals were allocated to different experimental groups: control (non-cryopreserved); slow freezing (SF), solid-surface vitrification (SSV), and conventional vitrification (CV). Each method used dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), ethylene glycol (EG), or a DMSO + EG combination. Morphology, viability, mitochondrial activity, and proliferative potential were assessed in fresh and frozen tissue samples. Testicular morphology was better using SSV with a combination of DMSO and EG. Across the different cryopreservation approaches, as well as cryoprotectant combinations, cell viability was comparable. Regarding mitochondrial activity, DMSO + EG/SSV or CV, and DMSO + EG/CV were similar to the EG/SF group, which was the best group that provided values similar to fresh control groups. Adequate preservation of the proliferative potential of spermatogonia, Leydig cells, and Sertoli cells was obtained using SSV with DMSO + EG. Overall, the use of SSV with DMSO + EG was the best protocol for the preservation of testicular tissues from adult red-rumped agoutis.
Heme Oxygenase-1: An Anti-Inflammatory Effector in Cardiovascular, Lung, and Related Metabolic Disorders
Authors: Ryter Stefan W.
Published: March 2022

The heme oxygenase (HO) enzyme system catabolizes heme to carbon monoxide (CO), ferrous iron, and biliverdin-IXα (BV), which is reduced to bilirubin-IXα (BR) by biliverdin reductase (BVR). HO activity is represented by two distinct isozymes, the inducible form, HO-1, and a constitutive form, HO-2, encoded by distinct genes (HMOX1, HMOX2, respectively). HO-1 responds to transcriptional activation in response to a wide variety of chemical and physical stimuli, including its natural substrate heme, oxidants, and phytochemical antioxidants. The expression of HO-1 is regulated by NF-E2-related factor-2 and counter-regulated by Bach-1, in a heme-sensitive manner. Additionally, HMOX1 promoter polymorphisms have been associated with human disease. The induction of HO-1 can confer protection in inflammatory conditions through removal of heme, a pro-oxidant and potential catalyst of lipid peroxidation, whereas iron released from HO activity may trigger ferritin synthesis or ferroptosis. The production of heme-derived reaction products (i.e., BV, BR) may contribute to HO-dependent cytoprotection via antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects. Additionally, BVR and BR have newly recognized roles in lipid regulation. CO may alter mitochondrial function leading to modulation of downstream signaling pathways that culminate in anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and immunomodulatory effects. This review will present evidence for beneficial effects of HO-1 and its reaction products in human diseases, including cardiovascular disease (CVD), metabolic conditions, including diabetes and obesity, as well as acute and chronic diseases of the liver, kidney, or lung. Strategies targeting the HO-1 pathway, including genetic or chemical modulation of HO-1 expression, or application of BR, CO gas, or CO donor compounds show therapeutic potential in inflammatory conditions, including organ ischemia/reperfusion injury. Evidence from human studies indicate that HO-1 expression may represent a biomarker of oxidative stress in various clinical conditions, while increases in serum BR levels have been correlated inversely to risk of CVD and metabolic disease. Ongoing human clinical trials investigate the potential of CO as a therapeutic in human disease.
Dynamic Impact Factor and Resonance Analysis of Curved Intercity Railway Viaduct
Authors: Wang Jun , Cui Chenxing , Liu Xiang , Wang Mingjie
Published: March 2022

A viaduct is an important structural form in intercity railway networks, and the curved bridge is inevitable in railway line network planning. When the vehicles cross through the curved bridge, the transverse load experienced by the bridge is much larger than that of the straight bridge due to the centrifugal forces. Therefore, in the bridge resonance analysis, in addition to the vertical moving vehicle load, it is also imperative to consider the radial vehicle load. In order to systematically analyze the dynamic impact factor (or dynamic load allowance) and resonance conditions of the curved intercity railway viaduct, a numerical model is developed. The reliability of the proposed model is assessed by comparing it with the existing literature. Taking the curved viaduct of Zhengzhou-Xuchang railway as a case study, the theoretical resonance velocity, dynamic impact factor, and dynamic time-history response under resonance velocity are calculated. The parameters of different spans, curve radius, and speeds are analyzed, and the reasonable ranges of bridge natural vibration frequency are determined.
Process Monitoring Using Kernel PCA and Kernel Density Estimation-Based SSGLR Method for Nonlinear Fault Detection
Authors: Shahzad Faisal , Huang Zhensheng , Memon Waqar Hussain
Published: March 2022

Fault monitoring is often employed for the secure functioning of industrial systems. To assess performance and enhance product quality, statistical process control (SPC) charts such as Shewhart, CUSUM, and EWMA statistics have historically been utilized. When implemented to multivariate procedures, unfortunately, such univariate control charts demonstrate low fault sensing ability. Due to some limitations of univariate charts, numerous process monitoring techniques dependent on multivariate statistical approaches such as principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares (PLS) have been designed. Yet, in some challenging scenarios in industrial chemical and biological processes with notably nonlinear properties, PCA works poorly, according to its presumption that the dataset generally be linear. However, Kernel Principal Component Analysis (KPCA) is a reliable and precise nonlinear process control methodology, but the interaction mainly through upper control limits (UCLs) dependent on the Gaussian distribution may weaken its output. This article introduces time-varying statistical error tracking through Kernel Principal Component Analysis (KPCA) based on Generalized Likelihood Ratio statistics (GLR) using a sequential sampling scheme named KPCA-SSGLR for nonlinear fault detection. The main issue of employing just T2 and Q statistic in KPCA is that they cannot correctly give practitioners the change point of the system fault, preventing practitioners from diagnosing the issue. Based on this perspective, this study attempts to incorporate KPCA with sequential sampling Generalized Likelihood Ratio (SSGLR) for monitoring the nonlinear fault in multivariate systems. The KPCA is utilized for dimension reduction, while the SSGLR is employed as a tracking statistic. The kernel density estimation (KDE) was employed to approximate UCLs for variational system operation relying on KPCA. The testing efficiency of the corresponding KPCA-KDE-SSGLR technique was then analyzed and competed with KPCA and kernel locality preserving projection (KLPP), the UCLs of which were focused on the Gaussian distribution. The purpose of this analysis is to enhance the development of KPCA-KDE-SSGLR to accomplish future enhancements and to advance the practical use of the established model by implementing the sequential sampling GLR approach. The fault monitoring efficiency is demonstrated through different simulation scenarios, one utilizing synthetic data, the other from the Tennessee Eastman technique, and lastly through a hot strip mill. The findings indicate the applicability of the KPCA-KDE-based SSGLR system over the KLPP and KPCA-KDE methods by its two T2 and Q charts to recognize the faults.
CO2 Sorption and Regeneration Properties of K2CO3/Al2O3-Based Sorbent at High Pressure and Moderate Temperature
Authors: Ryu Do-Yeong , Jo Seongbin , Kim Tae-Young , In Soo-Yeong , Woo Jin-Hyeok , Lee Jong-Heon , Chae Ho-Jin , Kim Jae-Kuk , Hwang Jae-Eun , Kim Jae-Chang , Lee Soo-Chool
Published: March 2022

In this study, the CO2 sorption mechanisms and regeneration properties of alumina-based sorbent using K2CO3 loading under high-pressure and moderate temperature conditions were examined. To investigate the mechanism of CO2 sorption, a zirconium-based sorbent was compared with an alumina-based sorbent. The CO2 capture capacities of the PAI10, 20, 30, and 40 were 32.3, 63.0, 95.4, and 124.5 mg CO2/g sorbent, respectively. To investigate the CO2 sorption mechanism of an alumina-based sorbent, we performed XRD, TG/DTG, and FTIR analyses after CO2 sorption in the presence of 10 vol% CO2 and H2O each at 200 °C and 20 atm. For PAI10–40 sorbents, KHCO3 and KAl(CO3)(OH)2 phases were observed by TG/DTG and FTIR analysis. For PAI-x sorbents, it was confirmed that the captured CO2 is desorbed completely at a temperature below 400 °C at 20 atm.
Flattening the Curve of Flexible Space Robotics
Authors: Sands Timothy
Published: March 2022

Infrastructure monitoring, inspection, repair, and replacement in space is crucial for continued usage and safety, yet it is expensive, time-consuming, and technically very challenging. New robotics technologies and artificial intelligence algorithms are potentially novel approaches that may alleviate such demanding operations using existing or novel sensing technologies. Space structures must necessarily be very light weight due to the high costs of placing robots in space. Several methods are proposed and compared to control highly flexible space robotics, where a key challenge is the presence of flexible resonant modes at frequencies so low as to reside inside typical feedback controller bandwidths. Such conditions imply the very action of sending control signals to the ultra-light weight robotics will cause structural resonance. Implementations of incrementally increasing order are offered, achieving an over ninety percent performance improvement in trajectory tracking errors, while improvement using unshaped methods merely achieve a twenty-four percent improvement in direct comparison (where the only modification is the proposed control methodology). Based on superior performance, single-sinusoidal trajectory shaping is recommended, with a corollary benefit of preparing future research into applying deterministic artificial intelligence whose current instantiation relies on single-sinusoidal, autonomous trajectory generation.
Challenges and Founding Pillars for a Manufacturing Platform to Support Value Networks Operating in a Circular Economy Framework
Authors: Pedrazzoli Paolo , Sorlini Marzio , Rovere Diego , Lazaro Oscar , Malò Pedro , Fiorello Michele
Published: March 2022

Circularity is clearly a competitive advantage and a market opportunity for European industries. From this perspective, while digitalization is largely recognized as an accelerator and an enabler of Circular Economy, the fact that European industry is strong but fragmented (highly specialized medium- and small-sized companies have different needs and different tools) naturally results in the proliferation of commercial platforms for digitalized manufacturing. If such fragmentation is not properly addressed, it will eventually become a threat to European competitiveness. Despite some examples, value networks still do not operate in a seamless, transparent, and effective way. This paper addresses the challenges and the resulting technical funding pillars for an IDS (International Data Space) manufacturing platform meant to empower a fully digital circular thread of products and services.
Targeted Temperature Manipulation and Analysis of the Influence on Mechanical Properties in Large-Scale Extrusion Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Tagscherer Nevine , Osswald Tim A. , Drechsler Klaus
Published: March 2022

Layer times in large-scale Extrusion Additive Manufacturing (EAM) of carbon fiber-reinforced thermoplastics are often outside the recommended process window. Brief layer times of tall parts with short path lengths lead to high temperatures and thus to melting of the component. In contrast, the substrate temperature decreases too far at longer layer times to achieve sufficient fusion bonding through molecular diffusion across the interface. Heating by infrared emitters and cooling by compressed air were experimentally tested and evaluated as methods for temperature control. Assuming that bond formation is mainly temperature-controlled, mechanical properties were expected to be similar to those of non-manipulated samples at the same temperatures. Samples of short carbon fiber-filled polyamide 6 in pellet form were manufactured in three test series. Infrared heating resulted in comparable tensile properties to samples at the target temperature and in a significant increase compared to the base temperature without heating. Cooling proved to be more effective when closer to the deposition nozzle, with tensile results even exceeding the expected values at temperatures below 170 °C. Overall, the results support the potential for targeted temperature control in EAM and the hypothesis that comparable bond strength can be achieved in dependence of the final substrate temperature.