bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Suicidality in Major Depressive Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Comparative Studies
Authors: Cai Hong , Xie Xiao-Meng , Zhang Qinge , Cui Xiling , Lin Jing-Xia , Sim Kang , Ungvari Gabor S. , Zhang Ling , Xiang Yu-Tao
Published: September 2021

Background: Suicidality is common in major depressive disorder (MDD), but there has been no systematic review published about all aspects of suicidality. This meta-analysis and systematic review compared the prevalence of the whole range of suicidality comprising suicidal ideation (SI), suicide plan (SP), suicide attempt (SA), and completed suicide (CS), between patients with MDD and non-MDD controls.

Methods: Major international (PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, EMBASE) and Chinese (Chinese Nation Knowledge Infrastructure and WANFANG) databases were systematically and independently searched from their inception until January 12, 2021.

Results: Fifteen studies covering 85,768 patients (12,668 in the MDD group and 73,100 in the non-MDD group) were included in the analyses. Compared to non-MDD controls, the odds ratios (ORs) for lifetime, past month, past year, and 2-week prevalence of SI in MDD were 2.88 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.30–27.22, p = 0.36], 49.88 (95% CI = 2–8.63, p < 0.001), 13.97 (95% CI = 12.67–15.41, p < 0.001), and 24.81 (95% CI = 15.70–39.22, p < 0.001), respectively. Compared to non-MDD controls, the OR for lifetime SP in MDD was 9.51 (95% CI = 7.62–11.88, p < 0.001). Compared to non-MDD controls, the ORs of lifetime and past-year prevalence of SA were 3.45 (95% CI = 1.58–7.52, p = 0.002), and 7.34 (95% CI = 2.14–25.16, p = 0.002), respectively, in MDD patients. No difference in the prevalence of CS between MDD and controls was found (OR = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.23–2.02, p = 0.50).

Conclusions: MDD patients are at a higher risk of suicidality, compared to non-MDD controls. Routine screening for a range of suicidality should be included in the management of MDD, followed by timely treatment for suicidal patients.

Systematic Review Registration: Identifier [INPLASY202120078].
Combined Associations of Smoking and Bullying Victimization With Binge Drinking Among Adolescents in Beijing, China
Authors: Chen Li , Lu Ruo-Ran , Duan Jia-Li , Ma Jun , Zhu Guangrong , Song Yi , Lau Patrick W. C. , Prochaska Judith J.
Published: September 2021

Background: Binge drinking and smoking among adolescents are serious public concerns. However, very few studies have explored the reinforcement of bullying victimization by such behavior. Our study aimed at examining the individual and combined associations of smoking and bullying victimization with binge drinking among adolescents in Beijing, China.

Methods: A total of 33,694 students aged 13–17 years old in Beijing, China were anonymously investigated via the cross-sectional Chinese Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Survey from April to May 2014. A three-stage stratified sampling was used to select participants. Factors such as sociodemographic variables and indicators of smoking, bullying victimization, and binge drinking were analyzed with multiple logistic regressions, and joint and additive interaction effects were tested.

Results: Overall, ever-drinking prevalence was 59.1% (boys: 64.4%; girls: 53.7%). Past 30-day binge drinking was 11.5% (boys: 15.6%; girls: 7.4%) and frequent binge drinking was 2.3% (boys: 3.3%; girls: 1.0%). Past 30-day smoking was 10.7% (boys: 16.4%; girls: 5.0%) and past 30-day bullying victimization was 48.7% (boys: 57.3%; girls: 40.1%). The combined effects of smoking and bullying victimization on occasional binge drinking (OR = 6.49, 95% CI = 5.60–7.52) and frequent binge drinking (OR = 10.32, 95% CI = 7.52–14.14) were significant, and the additive interaction effect was significant for current smoking and bullying victimization on frequent binge drinking (OR = 10.22, 95% CI = 9.43–11.07). The additive interaction effect for current smoking and bullying victimization on frequent binge drinking was significant among boys.

Conclusion: Bullying victimization reinforced the association of smoking with frequent binge drinking, especially with findings specific to boys. Programs to prevent smoking or bullying or both may reduce binge drinking among adolescents in China.
What Factors Are Most Closely Associated With Mood Disorders in Adolescents During the COVID-19 Pandemic? A Cross-Sectional Study Based on 1,771 Adolescents in Shandong Province, China
Authors: Ren Ziyuan , Xin Yaodong , Wang Zhonglin , Liu Dexiang , Ho Roger C. M. , Ho Cyrus S. H.
Published: September 2021

Background and Aims: COVID-19 has been proven to harm adolescents' mental health, and several psychological influence factors have been proposed. However, the importance of these factors in the development of mood disorders in adolescents during the pandemic still eludes researchers, and practical strategies for mental health education are limited.

Methods: We constructed a sample of 1,771 adolescents from three junior high middle schools, three senior high middle schools, and three independent universities in Shandong province, China. The sample stratification was set as 5:4:3 for adolescent aged from 12 – 15, 15 – 18, 18 – 19. We examined the subjects' anxiety, depression, psychological resilience, perceived social support, coping strategies, subjective social/school status, screen time, and sleep quality with suitable psychological scales. We chose four widely used classification models-k-nearest neighbors, logistic regression, gradient-boosted decision tree (GBDT), and a combination of the GBDT and LR (GBDT + LR)-to construct machine learning models, and we utilized the Shapley additive explanations value (SHAP) to measure how the features affected the dependent variables. The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves was used to evaluate the performance of the models.

Results: The current rates of occurrence of symptoms of anxiety and depression were 28.3 and 30.8% among the participants. The descriptive and univariate analyses showed that all of the factors included were statistically related to mood disorders. Among the four machine learning algorithms, the GBDT+LR algorithm achieved the best performance for anxiety and depression with average AUC values of 0.819 and 0.857. We found that the poor sleep quality was the most significant risk factor for mood disorders among Chinese adolescents. In addition, according to the feature importance (SHAP) of the psychological factors, we proposed a five-step mental health education strategy to be used during the COVID-19 pandemic (sleep quality-resilience-coping strategy-social support-perceived social status).

Conclusion: In this study, we performed a cross-sectional investigation to examine the psychological impact of COVID-19 on adolescents. We applied machine learning algorithms to quantify the importance of each factor. In addition, we proposed a five-step mental health education strategy for school psychologists.
Potential Cross-Links of Inflammation With Schizophreniform and Affective Symptoms: A Review and Outlook on Autoimmune Encephalitis and COVID-19
Authors: Vasilevska Veronika , Guest Paul C. , Schlaaff Konstantin , Incesoy Enise I. , Prüss Harald , Steiner Johann
Published: September 2021

Based on current implications of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic with regards to mental health, we show that biological links exist between inflammation and mental illness in addition to psychoreactive effects. We describe key principles of the biological interaction of the immune system and the mind, as well as the possible routes of viral entry into the brain. In addition, we provide a stepwise scheme for the diagnosis and therapy of autoimmune-encephalitis with schizophrenia-like symptomatology as a general guide for clinical practice and in the specialized scenario of infections, such as those caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Early Use of Phenol Neurolysis Likely Reduces the Total Amount of Botulinum Toxin in Management of Post-Stroke Spasticity
Authors: Li Sheng , Woo Jean , Mas Manuel F.
Published: September 2021

The main objective was to examine practice patterns of phenol neurolysis for post-stroke spasticity management in the early stage. We performed a chart review of patients who were admitted for inpatient rehabilitation within 6 months after first-ever stroke and received phenol neurolysis within 15 months post-stroke. Out of 2,367 stroke admissions from January 2014 and December 2018, 68 patients met the criteria. 52.9% of these patients received phenol neurolysis within 12 weeks, i.e., early stage. The earliest phenol neurolysis procedure was at 19 days after stroke. On average, patients received first phenol injections at 16.3 weeks after stroke with an average dose of 7.3 ml. Most commonly injected nerves were tibial nerve motor branches (41/68), sciatic nerve motor branches (37/68), lateral pectoral nerve (16/68), medial pectoral nerve (15/68), obturator nerve (15/68) and musculocutaneous nerve (15/68). Among 68 patients, 24 received phenol only; 17 received phenol neurolysis first followed by botulinum toxin (BoNT) injections; 19 received BoNT injections first followed by phenol neurolysis; 8 received both phenol and BoNT injections at the same time. The interval from stroke to first procedure was similar between the Phenol-First group (13.3 weeks) and the BoNT-First group (12.6 weeks). The total amount of BoNT was significantly lower in the Phenol-First group (361.3 units) than in the BoNT-First group (515.8 units) (p = 0.005). The total amount of phenol was not statistically different between the Phenol-First group (5.9 ml) and the BoNT-First group (8.3 ml). The interval between the first procedure and its subsequent procedure was not statistically different between the Phenol-First group (18.3 weeks) and the BoNT-First group (10.7 weeks). These long intervals suggest that the subsequent injection (type and dose) was not planned during the first procedure. The general patterns of target areas were similar between BoNT injections and phenol neurolysis, except that phenol neurolysis rarely targeted the upper extremity distal muscles. No side effects after phenol or BoNT injections in the early stage after stroke were observed in the chart review. In summary, phenol neurolysis was started as early as 19 days after stroke. On average, patients received first phenol about 4 months after stroke with an average of 7.3 ml of phenol. Early use of phenol neurolysis likely decreases the total amount of BoNT for management of post-stroke spasticity without increased side effects.
Autonomous Collision Avoidance at Sea: A Survey
Authors: Burmeister Hans-Christoph , Constapel Manfred
Published: September 2021

In this survey, results from an investigation on collision avoidance and path planning methods developed in recent research are provided. In particular, existing methods based on Artificial Intelligence, data-driven methods based on Machine Learning, and other Data Science approaches are investigated to provide a comprehensive overview of maritime collision avoidance techniques applicable to Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships. Relevant aspects of those methods and approaches are summarized and put into suitable perspectives. As autonomous systems are expected to operate alongside or in place of conventionally manned vessels, they must comply with the COLREGs for robust decision-support/-making. Thus, the survey specifically covers how COLREGs are addressed by the investigated methods and approaches. A conclusion regarding their utilization in industrial implementations is drawn.
Assimilation of Cosmogenic Neutron Counts for Improved Soil Moisture Prediction in a Distributed Land Surface Model
Authors: Patil Amol , Fersch Benjamin , Hendricks Franssen Harrie-Jan , Kunstmann Harald
Published: September 2021

Cosmic-Ray Neutron Sensing (CRNS) offers a non-invasive method for estimating soil moisture at the field scale, in our case a few tens of hectares. The current study uses the Ensemble Adjustment Kalman Filter (EAKF) to assimilate neutron counts observed at four locations within a 655 km2 pre-alpine river catchment into the Noah-MP land surface model (LSM) to improve soil moisture simulations and to optimize model parameters. The model runs with 100 m spatial resolution and uses the EU-SoilHydroGrids soil map along with the Mualem–van Genuchten soil water retention functions. Using the state estimation (ST) and joint state–parameter estimation (STP) technique, soil moisture states and model parameters controlling infiltration and evaporation rates were optimized, respectively. The added value of assimilation was evaluated for local and regional impacts using independent root zone soil moisture observations. The results show that during the assimilation period both ST and STP significantly improved the simulated soil moisture around the neutron sensors locations with improvements of the root mean square errors between 60 and 62% for ST and 55–66% for STP. STP could further enhance the model performance for the validation period at assimilation locations, mainly by reducing the Bias. Nevertheless, due to a lack of convergence of calculated parameters and a shorter evaluation period, performance during the validation phase degraded at a site further away from the assimilation locations. The comparison of modeled soil moisture with field-scale spatial patterns of a dense network of CRNS observations showed that STP helped to improve the average wetness conditions (reduction of spatial Bias from –0.038 cm3 cm−3 to –0.012 cm3 cm−3) for the validation period. However, the assimilation of neutron counts from only four stations showed limited success in enhancing the field-scale soil moisture patterns.
Fluorescent Chemosensors for Ion and Molecule Recognition: The Next Chapter
Authors: Yan Kai-Cheng , Steinbrueck Axel , Sedgwick Adam C. , James Tony D.
Published: September 2021

Over the past 30 years fluorescent chemosensors have evolved to incorporate many optical-based modalities and strategies. In this perspective we seek to highlight the current state of the art as well as provide our viewpoint on the most significant future challenges remaining in the area. To underscore current trends in the field and to facilitate understanding of the area, we provide the reader with appropriate contemporary examples. We then conclude with our thoughts on the most probable directions that chemosensor development will take in the not-too-distant future.
Cultural Dissonance: Surfers' Environmental Attitudes and Actions
Authors: Langseth Tommy , Vyff Adam
Published: September 2021

Surfers often see themselves as “green”. In this study we examine Norwegian surfers' attitudes and actions towards the environment. The article is based on a questionnaire (n= 251) and six qualitative interviews. The results show that most surfers see themselves as environmentally conscious. Oppositely, the data also show that they also buy a lot of surf-related apparel and equipment and travel a lot, and thereby contribute with a lot of CO2-emissions. In the article we investigate the apparent attitude-action gap amongst surfers. Does the gap give rise to emotional conflicts? And, if so, to what degree and how do they cope with it. In the article we start out by analysing such potential conflicts by using the concept cognitive dissonance. Further, we analyse the phenomena from a cultural, Bourdieusian perspective where values within the surf-field is highlighted. On the one hand, surf culture highly values connexion to nature and “green” thinking, on the other hand it also values and gives recognition to surfers that travels to and explore exotic destinations. Hence, values within surf culture leads surfers to conflicting actions. We end the article by discussing if these conflicts could be framed as cultural dissonance.
Prehospital Emergency Cricothyrotomy in Dogs Part 1: Experiences With Commercial Cricothyrotomy Kits
Authors: Hardjo Sureiyan , Palmer Lee , Haworth Mark David
Published: September 2021

The surgical cricothyrotomy (CTT) has been recommended for emergency front of neck airway access (eFONA) during a cannot intubate, cannot oxygenate scenario for military working dogs (MWD) and civilian law enforcement working dogs (operational K9s). In prehospital and austere environments, combat medics and emergency medical service providers are expected to administer emergency medical care to working dogs and may only have emergency airway kits designed for humans at their disposal. The objective of this article is to provide a detailed description of the application of such devices in cadaver dogs and highlight potential alterations to manufacturer guidelines required for successful tube placement. The kits evaluated included the Portex® PCK, Melker universal cricothyrotomy kit and H&H® emergency cricothyrotomy kit. A novel technique for awake cricothyrotomy in the dog is also described, which can also be considered for in-hospital use, together with the open surgical method described for the H&H® kit. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first publication documenting and providing instruction on the application of commercial cricothyrotomy kits in dogs.
Molecular Confirmation of Ranavirus Infection in Amphibians From Chad, Africa
Authors: Box Erin K. , Cleveland Christopher A. , Subramaniam Kuttichantran , Waltzek Thomas B. , Yabsley Michael J.
Published: September 2021

Ranaviruses are DNA viruses (Family Iridoviridae; Subfamily Alphairidovirinae) and ranaviral disease is considered an emerging infectious disease of ectothermic vertebrates. Ranavirus infection can have varying pathological effects on infected amphibians, reptiles, and fish, most notably causing significant mortality events and population declines. Despite having a broad global range with reports from six continents, only a single incidental finding in Xenopus longipes from mainland Africa (Cameroon) is known and lacks molecular confirmation. Thus, there is a considerable knowledge gap concerning ranaviruses in Africa. We opportunistically obtained tissue samples from 160 amphibians representing five genera (Hoplobatrachus, Hylarana, Ptychadena, Pyxicephalus, and Xenopus) and two turtles (Pelomedusa sp.) from Chad, Africa. Samples were tested for ranavirus infection using a conventional PCR assay targeting the major capsid protein (MCP). A total of 25/160 (16%) frogs tested positive including 15/87 (17%) Hoplobatrachus occipitalis, 10/58 (17%) Ptychadena spp., 0/3 Pyxicephalus spp., 0/9 Xenopus spp., and 0/3 Hylarana spp. One of two turtles tested positive. Partial MCP gene sequences indicated all samples were >98% similar to several frog virus 3 (FV3)-like sequences. Additional gene targets (DNA polymerase [DNApol], ribonucleotide reductase alpha [RNR- α], ribonucleotide reductase beta subunit [RNR- β]) were sequenced to provide further detailed classification of the virus. Sequences of individual gene targets indicate that the ranavirus detected in frogs in Chad is most similar to tiger frog virus (TFV), a FV3-like virus previously isolated from diseased amphibians cultured in China and Thailand. Full genome sequencing of one sample indicates that the Chad frog virus (CFV) is a well-supported sister group to the TFVs previously determined from Asia. This work represents the first molecular confirmation of ranaviruses from Africa and is a first step in comparing ranavirus phylogeography on a local and global scale.
Cell-Free DNA as a Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarker in Dogs With Tumors
Authors: Kim Jihu , Bae Hyeona , Ahn Soomin , Shin Sunwoo , Cho ARom , Cho Kyu-Woan , Jung Dong-In , Yu DoHyeon
Published: September 2021

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is derived from apoptosis/necrosis, active cellular secretion, and lysis of circulating cancer cells or micrometastases. In humans, cfDNA is widely used in cancer diagnosis, but veterinary research has yet to be actively conducted to establish it as a cancer biomarker. This retrospective study analyzed cfDNA levels in samples collected from dogs with neoplastic disease (n = 38), clinically ill dogs without neoplasia (n = 47), and healthy dogs (n = 35). cfDNA levels and clinical data were compared among groups, and prognostic analyses were performed within the neoplastic group. Furthermore, continual cfDNA measurements were performed during the chemotherapy of six dogs with lymphoma. Dogs with neoplasia showed significantly higher cfDNA concentrations than dogs without neoplasm, and the cfDNA oncentration in the lymphoid neoplasia group was significantly elevated among all neoplastic groups. Dogs with neoplasia and a plasma cfDNA concentration above 1,247.5 μg/L had shorter survival rates than those with levels below this threshold (26.5 vs. 86.1%, respectively, P < 0.05). In cases with complete remission in response to chemotherapy, the cfDNA concentration was significantly decreased compared with the first visit, whereas the cfDNA concentration was increased in cases with disease progression or death. Interestingly, a significant correlation was found between lymph node diameter and cfDNA concentration in dogs with multicentric lymphoma (R2 = 0.26, P < 0.01). These data suggest that changes in cfDNA concentration could be used as a diagnostic biomarker for canine neoplasia. Furthermore, increased plasma DNA levels might be associated with shorter survival time, and cfDNA concentrations may reflect the response to chemotherapy.
Effects of Wheat and Rapeseed Production on Soil Water Storage in Mongolian Rangeland
Authors: Miyasaka Katori , Miyasaka Takafumi , Ota Jumpei , Batsukh Siilegmaa , Jamsran Undarmaa
Published: September 2021

In recent years, Mongolia has witnessed an increase in not only wheat fields, which have been present for a long time, but also rapeseed fields. This has led to increasing concerns about soil degradation due to inappropriate cultivation. This study aims to determine the impacts of rapeseed production on soil water storage in Mongolia. The soil water content and matric potential were measured in wheat and rapeseed fields and adjacent steppe rangeland for five years, including crop production and fallow years, and the soil water storages in the fields were compared. The results demonstrated that the matric potential below the root zone in the rapeseed field and both rangelands was drier than the wilting point, whereas the potential in the wheat field was usually almost the same or wetter than this point. The comparison of the amount of soil water storage during the fallow year with that of the adjacent rangeland showed it to be 5–10% higher for the wheat field and almost equal for the rapeseed field. Field management must consider the fact that rapeseed fields use more water than is required by wheat fields and that less water is stored during fallow periods.
The Potential Role of Drove Roads as Connecting Corridors for Birds between Natura 2000 Sites
Authors: Malo Juan E. , Mata Cristina
Published: September 2021

Ecological connectivity among protected Natura 2000 sites is a priority for conservation in Europe due to the increasing pressure on biodiversity from human activities and climate change. Drove roads, the traditional paths used to move livestock through the territory, have been proposed as potential ecological corridors due to their large extent, continuous nature and centennial protection from ploughing and urbanization, which allows the persistence of some tree cover and natural habitats in them. Bird communities were sampled during the reproductive season along 19 drove road transects in agrarian landscapes between Natura 2000 sites, all of them around the conurbation of Madrid (Madrid Region, Spain). Bird community nestedness was assessed by NODF computation followed by significance estimation by aleatorization, and factors explaining species richness and bird abundance were analyzed through General Linear Models fitted with environmental variables measured on official vegetation maps and orthophotos. Bird communities in drove roads were significantly nested, showing high predictability in the order of species loss from better preserved sites to those under stronger environmental pressures. Accordingly, Poisson regression showed bird richness to decrease strongly with distance from the closest Natura 2000 site and to increase with forest cover at the landscape and at the drove road scales. Bird abundance increased strongly with distance from urban areas and motorways, and it was slightly higher in areas with more forest cover and in transects with less bare ground. These results, and the higher relevance detected for landscape scale variables (500 m around transects) than for those at the drove road (50 m) scale, show that (i) they can only play a secondary role as habitat for nesting birds but (ii) they may add to the Green Infrastructure strategy as facilitators or stepping stones for bird communities if the surrounding landscape is favorable for them.
T Cell Immunosenescence in Aging, Obesity, and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Shirakawa Kohsuke , Sano Motoaki
Published: September 2021

Although advances in preventive medicine have greatly improved prognosis, cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide. This clearly indicates that there remain residual cardiovascular risks that have not been targeted by conventional therapies. The results of multiple animal studies and clinical trials clearly indicate that inflammation is the most important residual risk and a potential target for CVD prevention. The immune cell network is intricately regulated to maintain homeostasis. Ageing associated changes to the immune system occurs in both innate and adaptive immune cells, however T cells are most susceptible to this process. T-cell changes due to thymic degeneration and homeostatic proliferation, metabolic abnormalities, telomere length shortening, and epigenetic changes associated with aging and obesity may not only reduce normal immune function, but also induce inflammatory tendencies, a process referred to as immunosenescence. Since the disruption of biological homeostasis by T cell immunosenescence is closely related to the development and progression of CVD via inflammation, senescent T cells are attracting attention as a new therapeutic target. In this review, we discuss the relationship between CVD and T cell immunosenescence associated with aging and obesity.
Occlusion-Aware UAV Path Planning for Reconnaissance and Surveillance
Authors: Zhang Jian , Huang Hailong
Published: September 2021

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have become necessary tools for a wide range of activities including but not limited to real-time monitoring, surveillance, reconnaissance, border patrol, search and rescue, civilian, scientific and military missions, etc. Their advantage is unprecedented and irreplaceable, especially in environments dangerous to humans, for example, in radiation or pollution-exposed areas. Two path-planning algorithms for reconnaissance and surveillance are proposed in this paper, which ensures every point on the target ground area can be seen at least once in a complete surveillance circle. Moreover, the geometrically complex environments with occlusions are considered in our research. Compared with many existing methods, we decompose this problem into a waypoint-determination problem and an instance of the traveling-salesman problem.
Bioethanol Production from Sugarcane Press-Mud: Assessment of the Fermentation Conditions to Reduce Fusel Alcohol
Authors: Sanchez Nestor , Cobo Martha , Rodriguez-Fontalvo David , Uribe-Laverde Miguel Ángel , Ruiz-Pardo Ruth Y.
Published: September 2021

Within a biorefinery context, bioethanol is a promising platform molecule since it can be used as raw material to produce a wide spectrum of valuable industrial products such as H2 and light olefins. However, the presence of impurities limits the conversion of bioethanol in these products. Herein, we aimed to determine the proper pretreatment and fermentation conditions to yield bioethanol with a low content of impurities, such as 3-methyl-1-butanol, by using sugarcane press-mud as feedstock. To do so, a Box-Behnken methodology was employed to select proper pretreatment and fermentation conditions. Factors assessed were temperature, stirring, and pH during fermentation of hydrolysates coming from two different pretreatment methods named as hydrothermal and acid hydrolysis. Results showed that the fermentation temperature should be kept between 26–30 °C to assure at least 91 g/L ethanol. The fusel alcohol content would be reduced by 22% at 30 °C, pH = 4.5, and 200 rpm if sugarcane press-mud is pretreated under acid hydrolysis conditions (T = 130 °C, t = 1 h, 16 g HNO3/kg solid). Further studies should aim to integrate these conditions within a biorefinery concept to yield valuable products such as H2 and ethylene.
Mitochondrial Transplantation: Is It a Feasible Therapy to Prevent the Cardiorenal Side Effects of Cisplatin?
Authors: Amador-Martínez Isabel , Hernández-Cruz Estefani Yaquelin , Jiménez-Uribe Alexis Paulina , Sánchez-Lozada Laura Gabriela , Aparicio-Trejo Omar Emiliano , Tapia Edilia , Barrera-Chimal Jonatan , Pedraza-Chaverri José
Published: September 2021

Mitochondrial transplantation (MT) is a new experimental approach that has demonstrated positive results reverting mitochondrial alterations in cardiac and kidney dysfunction mainly mediated by oxidative stress. On the other hand, cisplatin is an effective and widely used antineoplastic drug in treating several cancers; however, cisplatin has notorious side effects in different organs, such as the heart, kidneys, liver, and brain; the kidney being one of the most affected. The genitourinary system is the principal excretion pathway of cisplatin, since it is removed from the blood primarily by glomerular filtration and tubular secretion, and it may cause a sudden reduction in the renal function (acute kidney injury “AKI”), in part, by inducing mitochondrial dysfunction and the consequent oxidative stress in the tubular segment. In addition, AKI may associate with cardiac alterations, as occurs in acute cardiorenal syndrome. Due to the high prevalence of renal and cardiac side effects produced by cisplatin, here we discuss the possible use of MT as a novel therapy that could protect tissues by alleviating mitochondrial dysfunction and reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production.
What Motivates Family Historians? A Pilot Scale to Measure Psychosocial Drivers of Research into Personal Ancestry
Authors: Moore Susan M. , Rosenthal Doreen A.
Published: September 2021

Participation in family history research may be a passing phase for some, but for others, it is a recreational pursuit exciting passionate intensity that goes beyond idle curiosity or short-term interest. In this paper, we explore some of the underlying motives that drive amateur genealogists, including the search for self-understanding, the desire to give something of value to others and the enjoyment of the many intellectual challenges that this hobby can provide. Using data accessed from an online survey of 775 Australian family historians, we developed a reliable and valid measure of the intensity of these psychosocial motives and used research participants’ qualitative data to suggest four further motives of interest for future research and measure development.
Unexpected Findings in 16th Century Wall Paintings: Identification of Aragonite and Unusual Pigments
Authors: Rampazzi Laura , Corti Cristina , Geminiani Ludovico , Recchia Sandro
Published: September 2021

Sixteenth century wall paintings were analyzed from a church in an advanced state of decay in the Apennines of central Italy, now a remote area but once located along the salt routes from the Po Valley to the Ligurian Sea. Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with a microprobe were used to identify the painting materials, as input for possible future restoration. Together with the pigments traditionally used for wall painting, such as ochre, ultramarine blue, bianco di Sangiovanni, cinnabar/vermilion, azurite, some colors were also found to have only been used since the 18th century. This thus suggests that a series of decorative cycles occurred after the church was built, confirmed by the multilayer stratigraphy of the fragments. Some of these colors were also unusual, such as clinochlore, Brunswick green, and ultramarine yellow. The most notable result of the analytical campaign however, was the ubiquitous determination of aragonite, the mineralogical form of calcium carbonate, mainly of biogenic origin. Sources report its use in Roman times as an aggregate in mortars, and in the literature it has only been shown in Roman wall paintings. Its use in 16th century wall paintings is thus surprising.
Effects of Cannabinoid Exposure during Neurodevelopment on Future Effects of Drugs of Abuse: A Preclinical Perspective
Authors: Farrelly Aaron Mark , Vlachou Styliani
Published: September 2021

The endocannabinoid system plays a central role in the earliest stages of embryonic, postnatal and adolescent neurodevelopment. Aberrant activity of this system at key developmental phases has been shown to affect neural development. The aim of this review is to synthesise and analyse preclinical insights within rodent populations, focusing on the effects that perinatal (embryonic, gestational and early postnatal developmental stages) and adolescent (postnatal day 21–60) cannabinoid exposure impose across time on the subsequent activity of various drugs of abuse. Results in rodents show that exposure to cannabinoids during the perinatal and adolescent period can lead to multifaceted behavioural and molecular changes. In the perinatal period, significant effects of Δ9-THC exposure on subsequent opiate and amphetamine reward-related behaviours were observed primarily in male rodents. These effects were not extended to include cocaine or alcohol. In adolescence, various cannabinoid agonists were used experimentally. This array of cannabinoids demonstrated consistent effects on opioids across sex. In contrast, no significant effects were observed regarding the future activity of amphetamines and cocaine. However, these studies focused primarily on male rodents. In conclusion, numerous gaps and limitations are apparent in the current body of research. The sparsity of studies analysing the perinatal period must be addressed. Future research within both periods must also focus on delineating sex-specific effects, moving away from a male-centric focus. Studies should also aim to utilise more clinically relevant cannabinoid treatments.
Investigation of the Influence of Tool Rake Angles on Machining of Inconel 718
Authors: Xu Dongdong , Ding Liang , Liu Yang , Zhou Jinming , Liao Zhirong
Published: September 2021

It is essential for superalloys (e.g., Inconel 718) to obtain an anticipated surface integrity after machining, especially for safety critical areas (e.g., aerospace). As one of the main characteristics for cutting tools, the rake angle has been recognized as a key factor that can significantly influence the machining process. Although there are large research interests and outcomes in the machining of nickel-based superalloys, most of them focus on the surface integrity and macroscale temperature observation, whereas the temperature distribution in the tool rake face is not clear. Thus, it is necessary to investigate the basic role of rake angles and the tool–workpiece interaction mechanism to determine the machining condition variations and surface integrity. In the present study, both experimental and numerical methods are employed to explore the cutting force, thermal distribution, and shear angles during the process and the metallurgy characteristics of the subsurface after machining, as well as the mechanical properties. The research has emphasized the importance of rake angles on both the cutting process and machined surface integrity, and has revealed the microscale temperature distribution in the tool rake face, which is believed to have a close relationship with the tool crater wear. In addition, it is clearly presented that the surface generated with positive rake angle tools generates the minimum subsurface deformation and less strain hardening on the workpiece.
Phase Transformations and Subsurface Changes in Three Dental Zirconia Grades after Sandblasting with Various Al2O3 Particle Sizes
Authors: Kim Hee-Kyung , Yoo Kun-Woo , Kim Seung-Joo , Jung Chang-Ho
Published: September 2021

Although sandblasting is mainly used to improve bonding between dental zirconia and resin cement, the details on the in-depth damages are limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate phase transformations and subsurface changes after sandblasting in three different dental zirconia (3, 4, and 5 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia; 3Y-TZP, 4Y-PSZ, and 5Y-PSZ). Zirconia specimens (14.0 × 14.0 × 1.0 mm3) were sandblasted using different alumina particle sizes (25, 50, 90, 110, and 125 µm) under 0.2 MPa for 10 s/cm2. Phase transformations and residual stresses were investigated using X-ray diffraction and the Williamson-Hall method. Subsurface damages were evaluated with cross-sections by a focused ion beam. Stress field during sandblasting was simulated by the finite element method. The subsurface changes after sandblasting were the emergence of a rhombohedral phase, micro/macro cracks, and compressive/tensile stresses depending on the interactions between blasting particles and zirconia substrates. 3Y-TZP blasted with 110-µm particles induced the deepest transformed layer with the largest compressive stress. The cracks propagated parallel to the surface with larger particles, being located up to 4.5 µm under the surface in 4Y- or 5Y-PSZ subgroups. The recommended sandblasting particles were 110 µm for 3Y-TZP and 50 µm for 4Y-PSZ or 5Y-PSZ for compressive stress-induced phase transformations without significant subsurface damages.
Influence of Embedded Gap and Overlap Fiber Placement Defects on Interlaminar Properties of High Performance Composites
Authors: Cartié Denis , Lan Marine , Davies Peter , Baley Christophe
Published: September 2021

Automated fiber placement (AFP), once limited to aerospace, is gaining acceptance and offers great potential for marine structures. This paper describes the influence of manufacturing defects, gaps, and overlaps, on the out-of-plane properties of carbon/epoxy composites manufactured by AFP. Apparent interlaminar shear strength measured by short beam shear tests was not affected by the presence of defects. However, the defects do affect delamination propagation. Under Mode I (tension) loading a small crack arrest effect is noted, resulting in higher apparent fracture energies, particularly for specimens manufactured using a caul plate. Under Mode II (in-plane shear) loading there is a more significant effect with increased fracture resistance, as stable propagation for specimens with small gaps changes to arrest with unstable propagation for larger gaps.
Cervical Twin Heterotopic Pregnancy: Overview of Ectopic Pregnancies and Scanning Detection Algorithm
Authors: Koutras Antonios , Fasoulakis Zacharias , Diakosavvas Michail , Syllaios Athanasios , Pagkalos Athanasios , Samara Athina A. , Tsatsaris Georgios , Ntounis Thomas , Theodora Marianna , Sindos Michael , Kontomanolis Emmanuel N.
Published: September 2021

Background: Ectopic pregnancy is the leading cause of gestation-related deaths during the first trimester. Cervical twin heterotopic pregnancies, when ectopic, constitute a small and rare part of gynecological surgery. Case Presentation: A 30-year-old pregnant woman (gravida 3, para 2) presented with mild pain in the lower abdomen and traces of bleeding per vaginum for three days. Transvaginal ultrasonography revealed a balloon-shaped cervical canal with a visible gestational sac measuring 3.5 × 3.9 cm. A second gestational sac was seen in the uterine cavity. The measurements of the gestational sacs corresponded to 7 + 4 weeks’ pregnancy. A decision for medical abortion with mifepristone and misoprostol was made. However, due to an incomplete abortion and continuous bleeding, a curettage was performed. Conclusions: Spontaneous heterotopic pregnancy with the ectopic pregnancy located in the cervix is an extremely rare clinical condition requiring urgent treatment in order to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity and preserve fertility.
Simultaneous Exposure to Angiostrongylus vasorum and Vector-Borne Pathogens in Dogs from Italy
Authors: Morelli Simone , Gori Francesca , Colombo Mariasole , Traversa Donato , Sarrocco Giulia , Simonato Giulia , Nespeca Chiara , Di Cesare Angela , Frangipane di Regalbono Antonio , Veronesi Fabrizia , Russi Ilaria , Schnyder Manuela
Published: September 2021

Several drivers have recently fostered the expansion of Angiostrongylus vasorum throughout Europe, where Vector-Borne Pathogens (VBPs) are also spreading. However, the level of simultaneous risk of infection is still unknown in canine populations. This study evaluated the simultaneous exposure to A. vasorum and major canine VBPs in dogs of Italy. Sera of 294 dogs were subjected to two ELISAs, detecting A. vasorum circulating antigens and antibodies against the parasite, and to the following assays: (i) SNAP® 4DX (IDEXX Laboratories Inc.) detecting Dirofilaria immitis antigens, and antibodies vs. Borrelia burgdorferi, Anaplasma spp. and Ehrlichia spp. and (ii) IFAT for the detection of antibodies vs. Leishmania infantum, Babesia canis and Rickettsia conorii. Twenty-two (7.5%, CI: 4.8–11.1%) and six (2%, CI: 0.7–4.4%) dogs scored positive for circulating A. vasorum antibodies and antigens, respectively. Seventeen dogs (5.8%, CI: 3.4–9.1%) were positive for A. vasorum antibodies + at least one VBP, three (1%, CI: 0.2–3%) for A. vasorum antigen + at least one VBP, while one dog (0.3%, CI: 0.01–1.88%) was positive for A. vasorum antigen + A. vasorum antibodies + B. canis antibodies. These results show that dogs living in different regions of Italy are at risk of simultaneous infections with both A. vasorum and VBPs. Despite the same scenario being likely in other countries of Europe, the current knowledge is scant. Therefore, further studies are warranted to amplify current epizootiological information and to understand whether control programs should be improved.
Bibliometric Analysis in the Field of Quantum Technology
Authors: Scheidsteger Thomas , Haunschild Robin , Bornmann Lutz , Ettl Christoph
Published: September 2021

The second quantum technological revolution started around 1980 with the control of single quantum particles and their interaction on an individual basis. These experimental achievements enabled physicists, engineers, and computer scientists to utilize long-known quantum features—especially superposition and entanglement of single quantum states—for a whole range of practical applications. We use a publication set of 54,598 papers from Web of Science, published between 1980 and 2018, to investigate the time development of four main subfields of quantum technology in terms of numbers and shares of publications, as well as the occurrence of topics and their relation to the 25 top contributing countries. Three successive time periods are distinguished in the analyses by their short doubling times in relation to the whole Web of Science. The periods can be characterized by the publication of pioneering works, the exploration of research topics, and the maturing of quantum technology, respectively. Compared to the USA, China’s contribution to the worldwide publication output is overproportionate, but not in the segment of highly cited papers.
Conceptualising the Circular Economy Potential of Construction and Demolition Waste: An Integrative Literature Review
Authors: Papastamoulis Vasilios , London Kerry , Feng Yingbin , Zhang Peng , Crocker Robert , Patias Petros
Published: September 2021

Traditionally, construction and demolition waste (CDW) materials have been considered to be unwanted, surplus, or wastage materials or materials with zero value. Such a conceptualisation only embraces a negative aspect, which underpins the disposal of reusable and recyclable CDW materials in landfills, thus damaging the circular economy and the environment. The scope of this research was to conceptualise the circular economy potential of non-hazardous construction and demolition waste, which can be used as a resource for advancing the circular economy and sustainability in the built environment. Thus, the abbreviation ‘CEPCDR’ is used for this purpose. The study employs an integrative literature review to understand in depth whether the rationale in the existing CDW definitions advocates for the circular economy. Instead, the literature showed that the current definitions mainly support quantitative, economic, or classification needs, respectively. That is because they lack consideration of the dynamic nature of CDW materials, which embraces the spatial and temporal dimensions. The former involves the geographic context in which the CDW phenomenon eventuates, while the latter concerns the lifecycle of materials. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by conceptualising the CEPCDR using a holistic approach that includes five dimensions: the social, economic, environmental, spatial, and temporal perspectives. Furthermore, the study seeks to drive future research in measuring the CEPCDR.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Advanced Techniques for Ground Penetrating Radar Imaging”
Authors: López Yuri Álvarez , García-Fernández María
Published: September 2021

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) has become one of the key technologies in subsurface sensing and, in general, in Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), since it is able to detect both metallic and nonmetallic targets [...]
A Novel Hybrid Approach Based on Deep CNN Features to Detect Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Mahum Rabbia , Rehman Saeed Ur , Meraj Talha , Rauf Hafiz Tayyab , Irtaza  Aun , El-Sherbeeny Ahmed M. , El-Meligy  Mohammed A.
Published: September 2021

In the recent era, various diseases have severely affected the lifestyle of individuals, especially adults. Among these, bone diseases, including Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA), have a great impact on quality of life. KOA is a knee joint problem mainly produced due to decreased Articular Cartilage between femur and tibia bones, producing severe joint pain, effusion, joint movement constraints and gait anomalies. To address these issues, this study presents a novel KOA detection at early stages using deep learning-based feature extraction and classification. Firstly, the input X-ray images are preprocessed, and then the Region of Interest (ROI) is extracted through segmentation. Secondly, features are extracted from preprocessed X-ray images containing knee joint space width using hybrid feature descriptors such as Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) through Local Binary Patterns (LBP) and CNN using Histogram of oriented gradient (HOG). Low-level features are computed by HOG, while texture features are computed employing the LBP descriptor. Lastly, multi-class classifiers, that is, Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF), and K-Nearest Neighbour (KNN), are used for the classification of KOA according to the Kellgren–Lawrence (KL) system. The Kellgren–Lawrence system consists of Grade I, Grade II, Grade III, and Grade IV. Experimental evaluation is performed on various combinations of the proposed framework. The experimental results show that the HOG features descriptor provides approximately 97% accuracy for the early detection and classification of KOA for all four grades of KL.