bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes of Soil Water and Heat Transport and Yield of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) in Greenhouses with Micro-Sprinkler Irrigation under Plastic Film
Authors: Zhang Mingzhi , Li Yuan , Liu Jianfei , Wang Jingwei , Zhang Zhenxing , Xiao Na
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to expound the changes in soil water flow, heat transport, and tomato production under micro-sprinkler irrigation and plastic film (MSPF) conditions. The effects of different irrigation amounts (I1:0.7 Epan; I2:1.0 Epan; and I3:1.2 Epan (Epan is the cumulative evaporation from a 20 cm diameter standard pan, mm)) on soil water, soil temperature, and tomato yield were studied. A completely randomized trial design was used; meanwhile, the drip irrigation under plastic film (CK1) and micro-sprinkler irrigation without mulch film (CK2) were used as controls. The results showed that the shape of soil moisture was banded under MSPF; the soil wetting range was larger than that of CK1 and CK2 in the profile of MSPF. The change range of 5 cm soil temperature of MSPF 1–5 days after irrigation was 4.05 °C. The change range of 5 cm soil temperature of MSPF was lower than that of CK1 from 1 to 5 days after irrigation. During the growth period of spring and autumn tomato, the average soil moisture content of 0–40 cm with CK1 was 1.97% and 3.83% (spring and autumn, respectively) higher than that of MSPF, and the average soil temperature of 5–25 cm was 2.36% and 1.66% (spring and autumn, respectively) lower than that of MSPF. Compared with CK2, the average soil moisture content of 0–40 cm under MSPF increased by 8.30% and 3.83% (spring and autumn, respectively), and the average soil temperature of 5–25 cm under MSPF increased by 5.85% and 1.68% (spring and autumn, respectively). The spring and autumn tomato yield of MSPF was significantly higher than that of CK1 by 19.39% and 4.54%, respectively. The spring and autumn tomato yield of MSPF were higher than that of CK2 by about 20.46% and 49.22%, respectively. With an increase in the irrigation amount of MSPF, the soil moisture and yield of spring and autumn tomato increase; the soil temperature and water use efficiency of spring and autumn tomato decrease. Considered comprehensively, the MSPF can be used as one of the methods of greenhouse tomato micro-irrigation, and 1.0 Epan is recommended for irrigation parameters in northwest China facility agriculture.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Quantitative Computed Tomography Parameters of Adrenal Glands in Patients from Internistled ICU with Sepsis and Septic Shock
Authors: Milberg Moritz , Kindt Alida , Luft Lisa , Hoffmann Ursula , Behnes Michael , Schoenberg Stefan O. , Janssen Sonja
Published: March 2022

The aim was to prospectively evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic value of different quantitative analysis methods assessing adrenal gland parameters on contrast-enhanced CT scans in patients with septic conditions. Seventy–six patients (49 men, 27 women) received CT scans for focus search. Adrenal glands were analyzed by means of three different methods: subjective region of interest (ROI) measurement, organ segmentation and histogram analysis using semi-automated software. Univariate analyses with multiple testing thresholds and receiver operating characteristic curves were performed. Clinical endpoints were 8-days, 28-days and 6-months mortality. Forty-four CT scans were analyzed (ground truth: patients with no sepsis: n = 6; patients with sepsis: n = 15; patients in septic shock: n = 21). Left adrenal gland (LAG) values were analyzed and compared, as data variation was lower than in the right adrenal glands. In patients with septic conditions, the combination of high LAG and Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) density values was highly specific for septic shock with all three methods. Only segmentation values were significantly different between the sepsis and septic shock groups after confounder correction (p = 0.048). Total adrenal gland volume was 20% higher in the septic shock patients while a relatively small LAG volume within the septic shock subgroup was associated with higher mortality at day 8 (AUC = 0.8; p = 0.006) and at 6 months (AUC = 0.7; p = 0.035). However, time-consuming density analysis methods assessing adrenal glands do not provide additional diagnostic value in patients with septic conditions. The combination of high LAG and IVC attenuation values seems to be highly specific for septic shock, regardless of the analysis type. Adrenal gland volume reveals short- and long-term prognostic capacity.
Personal Exposure and Inhaled Dose Estimation of Air Pollutants during Travel between Albany, NY and Boston, MA
Authors: Pal Vineet Kumar , Khwaja Haider A.
Published: March 2022

Out of eight deaths caused worldwide, one death is caused due to air pollution exposure, making it one of the top global killers. Personal exposure measurement for real-time monitoring has been used for inhaled dose estimation during various modes of workplace commuting. However, dose-exposure studies during long commutes are scarce and more information on inhaled doses is needed. This study focuses on personal exposures to size-fractionated particulate matter (PM1, PM2.5, PM4, PM7, PM10, TSP) and black carbon (BC) inside a bus traveling more than 270 kms on a highway between Albany, NY and Boston, MA. Measurements were also made indoors, outdoors, and while walking in each city. Mean PM (PM1, PM2.5, PM4, PM7, PM10, TSP) and mean BC concentrations were calculated to estimate the inhaled exposure dose. The highest average PM2.5 and PM10 exposures concentrations were 30 ± 12 and 111 ± 193 µg/m3, respectively, during Boston to Albany. Notably, personal exposure to BC on a bus from Albany to Boston (5483 ± 2099 ng/m3) was the highest measured during any commute. The average inhaled dose for PM2.5 during commutes ranged from 0.018 µg/km to 0.371 µg/km. Exposure concentrations in indoor settings (average PM2.5 = 37 ± 55 µg/m3, PM10 = 78 ± 82 µg/m3, BC = 5695 ± 1774 ng/m3) were higher than those in outdoor environments. Carpeted flooring, cooking, and vacuuming all tended to increase the indoor particulate level. A high BC concentration (1583 ± 1004 ng/m3) was measured during walking. Typical concentration profiles in long-haul journeys are presented.
Toxicity Studies on Essential Oil from Phoenix dactylifera (L.) Seed in Wistar Rats
Authors: Oluyele Olumide , Oladunmoye Muftau Kolawole , Ogundare Ayodele Oluwayemisi
Published: March 2022

This study evaluated the toxicological effect of oral administration of Phoenix dactylifera seed essential oil (PDEO) in Wistar rats. PDEO was extracted through a steam-distillation technique. Acute toxicity study evaluated administration of a single dose of the oil in a group (n = 5) of rats followed by 24 h observation, for sub-acute toxicity evaluation, the animals were randomly divided into five groups (n = 3). Group 1 to 4 rats, respectively, received 62.5, 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg bw of PDEO for fourteen days, while the fifth group served as control. At the termination of the study, blood samples were obtained for biochemical and hematological analyses, while vital organs were histopathologically examined. Results from this study revealed no mortality or abnormal behavioral changes in the animals. A dose-related increase in bodyweight and hematological parameters was observed across the treated groups (p < 0.05). At a dosage of 500 mg/kg bw, PDEO caused slight elevation in biochemical marker levels and mild changes in histological architecture of liver and kidney of the test rats. This study revealed that PDEO exhibited significant hematopoietic attributes with no adverse effect on the experimental rats’ vital organs at concentrations below 500 mg/kg bw.
Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Gene Variants in Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children
Authors: Vagrecha Anshul , Zhang Mingce , Acharya Suchitra , Lozinsky Shannon , Singer Aaron , Levine Chana , Al-Ghafry Maha , Fein Levy Carolyn , Cron Randy Q.
Published: March 2022

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) affects few children previously infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In 2020, 45 children admitted to our hospital for MIS-C underwent genetic screening with a commercial 109-immune-gene panel. Thirty-nine children were diagnosed with MIS-C, and 25.4% of the 39 MIS-C patients harbored rare heterozygous missense mutations either in primary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (pHLH) genes (LYST, STXBP2, PRF1, UNC13D, AP3B1) or the HLH-associated gene DOCK8 (four variants). We demonstrate that foamy virus introduction of cDNA for the four DOCK8 variants into human NK-92 natural killer (NK) cells led to decreased CD107a expression (degranulation) and decreased NK cell lytic function in vitro for each variant. Heterozygous carriers of missense mutations in pHLH genes and DOCK8 may serve as risk factors for development of MIS-C among children previously infected with SARS-CoV-2.
Availability of Cardiodiabetological Drugs in Poland during the First Year of COVID-19 Pandemic: Retrospective Study
Authors: Nowak Bartosz M. , Kamiński Mikołaj , Owczarek Bartłomiej , Szulińska Monika , Bogdański Paweł
Published: March 2022

There were worries that the COVID-19 pandemic could result in a shortage of supplies of some drugs. We aimed to analyze if the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the availability drop of different cardiodiabetological medicaments. Special attention was put to combined therapies and to investigate the general availability of these drugs. Data were obtained from the Polish startup company GdziePoLek regarding the availability of 121 cardiodiabetolocigal drugs divided into 23 separate categories in Polish pharmacies. The period of the analysis was limited from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2020. The threshold of a 20% decrease of median availability was set to found drugs with the most severe drop in availability during the COVID-19 pandemic. We also identified medicaments with a median availability of less than 50%. We identified two drugs with the most severe drop in availability level during COVID-19 pandemics: acenocoumarol (decrease by 52.0%) and nitrendipine (decrease by 98.3%). In 2019 and 2020, 27 of 121 drugs had a median availability lower than 50%. The limited availability concerned the most novel agents and polypills, mostly non-insulin antidiabetic drugs. The decrease in drug availability in Poland was not as severe as expected. Accessibility to some novel non-refunded medicaments is limited.
SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccine-Induced Cellular and Humoral Immunity in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Kwiatkowska Ewa , Safranow Krzysztof , Wojciechowska-Koszko Iwona , Roszkowska Paulina , Dziedziejko Violetta , Myślak Marek , Różański Jacek , Ciechanowski Kazimierz , Stompór Tomasz , Przybyciński Jarosław , Wiśniewski Piotr , Kwella Norbert , Kwiatkowski Sebastian , Prystacki Tomasz , Marcinkowski Wojciech , Domański Leszek
Published: March 2022

Background/Aims: Chronic kidney disease CKD patients on intermittent hemodialysis IHD are exposed to SARS-CoV-2 infection and carry a risk of developing severe symptoms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the humoral and cellular immunity induced by two doses of mRNA vaccines, the Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty) COVID-19 Vaccine and the Moderna (mRNA-1273) COVID-19 vaccine. Patients and methods: The study included 281 patients from five dialysis centers in northern Poland. Within 2 weeks prior to the first dose of the vaccine, a blood sample was collected for an evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Thirty to forty-five days after the second dose of the vaccine, a blood sample was taken to evaluate humoral and cellular response. Results: Patients with stage 5 CKD on IHD were characterized by a considerable SARS-CoV-2 vaccine-induced seroconversion rate. The strongest factors influencing the antibodies AB level after vaccination were a pre-vaccination history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, age, the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio NLR, neutrophil absolute count, and the hemoglobin level. Cellular immunity was higher in patients with a pre-vaccination history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Cellular immunity depended on the albumin level. Positive cellular response to vaccination was a positive factor reducing all-cause mortality, except for COVID-19 mortality (no such deaths were reported during our follow-up). Cellular immunity and humoral immunity were positively mutually dependent. High levels of albumin and hemoglobin, low neutrophil count, and a reduced NLR, translated into better response to vaccination. Conclusions: Patients with stage 5 CKD on IHD were characterized by a considerable SARS-CoV-2 vaccine-induced seroconversion rate and a good rate of cellular immunity. The factors that change with exacerbating inflammation and malnutrition (albumin, hemoglobin, neutrophil count, the NLR) affected the efficacy of the vaccination.
Biomarkers of Brain Injury: A Window on Mechanisms of Injury and Recovery in the Brain
Authors: Bagnato Sergio
Published: March 2022

The decision-making process regarding management after severe acute brain injury is based on clinical evaluation and depends on the injury etiology as well as radiological and neurophysiological data [...]
A Three-Dimensional Evaluation Model of the Externalities of Highway Infrastructures to Capture the Temporal and Spatial Distance to Optimal—A Case Study of China
Authors: Zhu Lei , Zhang Lina , Ye Qianwen , Du Jing , Zhao Xianbo
Published: March 2022

Various externalities caused by highway infrastructures, such as promoting economic development, traffic congestion, and air pollution, are becoming more and more important. Currently, there is no multi-dimensional quantitative evaluation of the externalities of highway infrastructures, hindering the sustainable planning and development of highway infrastructures. Therefore, this study aims to develop a three-dimensional evaluation model of the externalities of highway infrastructures. To achieve the above objective, this study: (1) developed a three-dimensional evaluation index system through a comprehensive literature review and interviews with experts; (2) weighted the evaluation indexes using the entropy weight method; (3) developed the comprehensive evaluation model using the grey correlation analysis method; (4) validated the developed model by using statistical data of Jiangsu province, China. The analysis results showed that the developed model is feasible and effective in evaluating the externalities of highway infrastructures as the analysis results are consistent with reality. In addition, the model can capture the value of externality-related information, the distance to the optimal state of the externalities of highway infrastructures, and the temporal and spatial trends of the externalities of highway infrastructures for a region. The results of this study for the first time set a basis for investigating the influential mechanism of the multi-dimensional externalities of highway infrastructures. Moreover, the results provide theoretical support for the scientific formulation of relevant policies and decision-making for the government.
Exploring Determinants of Interdisciplinary Collaboration within a Geriatric Oncology Setting: A Mixed-Method Study
Authors: Barrault-Couchouron Marion , Micheli Noemi , Soubeyran Pierre
Published: March 2022

Therapeutic challenges regarding the population of elderly cancer patients and their heterogeneity lead to the need to implement person-centered approaches in order to optimize care strategies and adapt oncology treatments to each pattern of aging. The International Society of Geriatric Oncology recommends a multidisciplinary evaluation of these patients and the use of screening tools prior to the initiation of treatments. However, previous research shows a poor implementation of these recommendations in geriatric oncology. Although some studies have identified how different perceptions of geriatric oncology might hinder routine teamwork, little is known about the impact of other factors on promoting the collaboration between the two specialties. This mixed-method exploratory study used an online questionnaire to assess the perception of a group of 22 geriatricians and oncology physicians on different determinants of oncology care and teamwork. In this sample, older oncology patients benefited from geriatric care. However, there was a variability regarding age criteria and a limited use of screening tools. The multidimensional framework for interprofessional teamwork by Reeves has been used to analyze some of the determinants of the collaboration between oncology physicians and geriatricians. This study has identified systematic issues to consider when promoting communication and common values between the two disciplines, including available resources in terms of shared time, space and routine actions.
Short-Term Fasting Synergizes with Solid Cancer Therapy by Boosting Antitumor Immunity
Authors: de Gruil Nadia , Pijl Hanno , van der Burg Sjoerd H. , Kroep Judith R.
Published: March 2022

Short-term fasting (STF), using a low caloric, low protein fasting mimicking diet (FMD), appears to be a promising strategy to enhance chemotherapy-based cancer efficacy, while potentially alleviating toxicity. Preclinical results suggest that enhanced tumor immunity and decreased growth signaling, via lowering of circulating insulin and insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels form the potential underlying mechanisms. STF may boost anti-tumor responses by promoting tumor immunogenicity and decreasing local immunosuppression. These findings warrant further studies focused on the combination of STF, not only with chemotherapy, but also with immunotherapy to evaluate the full range of benefits of STF in cancer treatment. Here, we delineate the underlying anticancer mechanisms of fasting. We summarize preclinical evidence of STF boosting antitumor immunity and alleviating immunosuppression, as well as the clinical findings reporting the immunomodulatory effects of STF during various cancer treatments, including immunotherapy.
Carbonic Anhydrase IX: A Renewed Target for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Campos Najla Santos Pacheco de , Souza Bruna Santos , Silva Giselle Correia Próspero da , Porto Victoria Alves , Chalbatani Ghanbar Mahmoodi , Lagreca Gabriela , Janji Bassam , Suarez Eloah Rabello
Published: March 2022

The carbonic anhydrase isoform IX (CAIX) enzyme is constitutively overexpressed in the vast majority of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) and can also be induced in hypoxic microenvironments, a major hallmark of most solid tumors. CAIX expression is restricted to a few sites in healthy tissues, positioning this molecule as a strategic target for cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we summarized preclinical and clinical data of immunotherapeutic strategies based on monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), fusion proteins, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T, and NK cells targeting CAIX against different types of solid malignant tumors, alone or in combination with radionuclides, cytokines, cytotoxic agents, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, or immune checkpoint blockade. Most clinical studies targeting CAIX for immunotherapy were performed using G250 mAb-based antibodies or CAR T cells, developed primarily for bioimaging purposes, with a limited clinical response for ccRCC. Other anti-CAIX mAbs, CAR T, and NK cells developed with therapeutic intent presented herein offered outstanding preclinical results, justifying further exploration in the clinical setting.
High Expression of NT5DC2 Is a Negative Prognostic Marker in Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Schulze Arik Bernard , Kuntze Anna , Schmidt Lars Henning , Mohr Michael , Marra Alessandro , Hillejan Ludger , Schulz Christian , Görlich Dennis , Hartmann Wolfgang , Bleckmann Annalen , Evers Georg
Published: March 2022

Via immunohistochemistry (IHC) on tissue micro arrays (TMA) clinical and prognostic impact of p53 co-playing 5′-Nucleotidase Domain-Containing Protein 2 (NT5DC2) protein expression was evaluated in 252 NSCLC patients. Confirmatory, gene expression database. mRNA levels of NT5DC2 were studied in 1925 NSCLC patients. High protein expression of NT5DC2 resulted in reduced median overall survival (OS) of patients with stage I-III adenocarcinoma (ADC) (Log Rank p = 0.026, HR 2.04 (1.08–3.87)), but not in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (p = 0.514, HR 0.87 (0.57–1.33)). Findings on OS were reproduced via gene expression analysis in ADC (p < 0.001, HR 1.64 (1.30–2.08)) and SCC (p = 0.217, HR 0.86 (0.68–1.09)). Yet, NT5DC2 mRNA levels were higher in SCC compared to ADC (p < 0.001) and in pN2 tumors compared to pN0/1 tumors (p = 0.001). Likewise, NT5DC2 protein expression associated with high-grade SCC. Moreover, NT5DC2 expression was positively correlated with p53 protein (p = 0.018) and TP53 gene expression (p < 0.001) and its survival effect was p53 dependent. While p53 expression was negatively associated with the presence of CD34+ cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs), NT5DC2 expression insignificantly tended to higher levels of SMA+ CAFs (p = 0.065).
Predicting Complications following Surgical Resection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Using Newly Developed Neo-Glasgow Prognostic Score with ALBI Grade: Comparison of Open and Laparoscopic Surgery Cases
Authors: Kaibori Masaki , Hiraoka Atsushi , Matsui Kosuke , Matsushima Hideyuki , Kosaka Hisashi , Yamamoto Hidekazu , Yamaguchi Takashi , Yoshida Katsunori , Sekimoto Mitsugu
Published: March 2022

Background/Aim: Nutritional assessment is known to be important for predicting prognosis in patients with malignant diseases. This study examined the usefulness of a prognostic predictive nutritional assessment tool for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients treated with surgical resection. Materials/Methods: HCC patients (n = 429) classified as Child–Pugh A who underwent an R0 resection between 2010 and 2020 were retrospectively analyzed (median age 73 years, males 326 (76.0%), Child–Pugh score 5:6 = 326:103, single tumor 340 (79.2%), median tumor size 3.5 cm, open:laparoscopic = 304:125). Glasgow prognostic score (GPS) and the newly developed neo-GPS method, which uses albumin–bilirubin grade 1 instead of albumin, were evaluated to compare their usefulness for prognosis prediction. Results: Median survival time for patients with a GPS score of 0, 1, and 2 was 120, 51, and 20 months, respectively. As for neo-GPS, that for those with a score of 0, 1, and 2 was not applicable (NA), 53 months, and 35 months, respectively (each p < 0.001; c-index: 0.556 and 0.611, respectively). Furthermore, median progression-free survival was 33, 22, and 9 months, and 41, 24, and 15 months, respectively (each p < 0.001; c-index: 0.539 and 0.578, respectively). As compared to patients with a high GPS (≥1), those with a high neo-GPS (≥1) showed a greater rate of high Clavien–Dindo classification (≥3) (39.2% vs. 65.1%). A comparison of patients with a high GPS (≥1) with those with a high neo-GPS (≥1) showed no significant difference regarding frequency of open or laparoscopic hepatectomy (17.4% vs. 15.2%, p = 0.670; 44.7% vs. 43.2%, p = 0.831, respectively), while the frequency of high Clavien–Dindo classification (≥3) was lower in patients who underwent a laparoscopic hepatectomy (11.2% vs. 22.7%, p = 0.007). Conclusion: The present findings suggest that the newly developed neo-GPS based on ALBI grade is an effective prognostic nutritional assessment tool and can be used for prediction of postoperative complications.
The Zr Modified γ-Al2O3 Catalysts for Stable Hydrolytic Decomposition of CF4 at Low Temperature
Authors: Zheng Xie , Xiang Kaisong , Shen Fenghua , Liu Hui
Published: March 2022

CF4, one of the Perfluorocompounds (PFCs), also known as a greenhouse gas with high global warming potential. In this study, Zr/γ-Al2O3 catalysts were developed for CF4 decomposition. The addition of Zr onto γ-Al2O3 achieves a high CF4 conversion efficiency of 85% at 650 °C and maintain its activity for more than 60 h, which is obviously higher than that of bare γ-Al2O3 (50%). The mechanism involved in CF4 decomposition over the Zr/γ-Al2O3 are clarified that the surface Lewis acidity sites are the main active center for CF4 directly adsorbing and decomposing. The results of NH3-TPD and FT-IR analyses suggest that the amount of Lewis acidity sites on catalyst surface increases significantly after the introduction of Zr, thereby enhancing the activity of catalyst for CF4 decomposition. The results of XPS analyses confirms the electrons transfer from Zr to Al, which contribute to the increase in Lewis acidity sites. The results of this work will help the development of more effective catalysts for CF4 decomposition.
Myopia Genetics and Heredity
Authors: Wang Yu-Meng , Lu Shi-Yao , Zhang Xiu-Juan , Chen Li-Jia , Pang Chi-Pui , Yam Jason C.
Published: March 2022

Myopia is the most common eye condition leading to visual impairment and is greatly influenced by genetics. Over the last two decades, more than 400 associated gene loci have been mapped for myopia and refractive errors via family linkage analyses, candidate gene studies, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and next-generation sequencing (NGS). Lifestyle factors, such as excessive near work and short outdoor time, are the primary external factors affecting myopia onset and progression. Notably, besides becoming a global health issue, myopia is more prevalent and severe among East Asians than among Caucasians, especially individuals of Chinese, Japanese, and Korean ancestry. Myopia, especially high myopia, can be serious in consequences. The etiology of high myopia is complex. Prediction for progression of myopia to high myopia can help with prevention and early interventions. Prediction models are thus warranted for risk stratification. There have been vigorous investigations on molecular genetics and lifestyle factors to establish polygenic risk estimations for myopia. However, genes causing myopia have to be identified in order to shed light on pathogenesis and pathway mechanisms. This report aims to examine current evidence regarding (1) the genetic architecture of myopia; (2) currently associated myopia loci identified from the OMIM database, genetic association studies, and NGS studies; (3) gene-environment interactions; and (4) the prediction of myopia via polygenic risk scores (PRSs). The report also discusses various perspectives on myopia genetics and heredity.
The Association between School Corporal Punishment and Child Developmental Outcomes: A Meta-Analytic Review
Authors: Visser Lotte , van der Put Claudia , Assink Mark
Published: March 2022

School corporal punishment (SCP) is still widely used in many countries. Although primary studies have pointed toward detrimental effects of SCP, a quantitative review of these studies was not yet available. To gain better insight into effects of SCP, three meta-analyses were conducted on the association between SCP and children’s (1) externalizing behavior, (2) internalizing behavior, and (3) school performance. These meta-analyses synthesized 21 studies (120 effect sizes; N = 67,400), 14 studies (18 effect sizes; N = 39,917), and 20 studies (47 effect sizes; N = 977,367), respectively. Studies were synthesized using a three-level approach to meta-analysis. The results revealed that SCP is positively associated with externalizing behavior (r = 0.27, p < 0.001) and internalizing behavior of children (r = 0.16, p < 0.001), and negatively with children’s school performance (r = −0.11, p < 0.001). This review concludes that SCP is a risk factor for externalizing behavior, internalizing behavior, and reduced school performance of children. Other techniques than SCP should be used for class management, and we recommend psychoeducational programs for schools and the wider community in which corporal punishment is still used. These programs should convey the detrimental effects of SCP and alternative discipline techniques. More awareness of the detrimental effects of SCP is needed to make the school environment a safe place for all children across the world.
Physical Interaction between Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 5 (CDK5) and Clock Factors Affects the Circadian Rhythmicity in Peripheral Oscillators
Authors: Ripperger Jürgen A. , Chavan Rohit , Albrecht Urs , Brenna Andrea
Published: March 2022

Circadian rhythms are self-sustained oscillators with a period of 24 h that is based on the output of transcriptional and post-translational feedback loops. Phosphorylation is considered one of the most important post-translational modifications affecting rhythmicity from cyanobacteria to mammals. For example, the lack of cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5) shortened the period length of the circadian oscillator in the Suprachiasmatic Nuclei (SCN) of mice via the destabilization of the PERIOD 2 (PER2) protein. Here, we show that CDK5 kinase activity and its interaction with clock components, including PER2 and CLOCK, varied over time in mouse embryonic fibroblast cells. Furthermore, the deletion of Cdk5 from cells resulted in a prolonged period and shifted the transcription of clock-controlled genes by about 2 to 4 h with a simple delay of chromatin binding of ARNTL (BMAL1) CLOCK. Taken together, our data indicate that CDK5 is critically involved in regulating the circadian clock in vitro at the molecular level.
Reply to Schizas et al. Comment on “Bang et al. Two New Species of the Genus Longipedia Claus, 1863 (Copepoda: Harpacticoida: Longipediidae) from Korea, with an Update and a Key to Species. Diversity 2021, 13, 590”
Authors: Bang Hyun Woo , Moon Heejin , Back Jinwook
Published: March 2022

Bang et al. [...]
Response of Diatoms to the Changing Water Quality in the Myristica Swamps of the Western Ghats, India
Authors: Thacker Mital , Karthick Balasubramanian
Published: March 2022

Myristica swamps are one of the rarest wetland ecosystems within the sub-tropical evergreen forests of the Western Ghats, India. As their name indicates, they harbor trees belonging to the ancient family Myristicaceae. Due to the waterlogged conditions and high humic decomposition, these swamps are acidic, harbor rare and endemic biotas, and provide ecosystem services to humans. Monitoring this rare ecosystem is crucial because the swamps that once formed a large hydrological network across the Western Ghats are now confined to isolated patches due to human disturbance such as agricultural interventions, roads, and dam construction. Due to the change in land use, there is also a drastic change in water chemistry and associated biodiversity. Biomonitoring is more precise than physical and chemical monitoring. So, the current study aimed to undertake a comprehensive analysis of the physical, chemical, and biological assessment of these swamps. The diatom assemblages are strongly affected by water chemistry and serve as a powerful indicator of environmental changes in the freshwater aquatic systems. However, there is no information on diatom assemblages in these swamps, and the present study aimed to determine the diatom assemblage structure in the Myristica swamps and their response to changing water quality. Diatom samples were taken at 17 different swamps across the central Western Ghats, and a set of environmental parameters was evaluated. Analysis revealed a total of 91 species of diatoms belonging to 27 genera across the 17 sites, from which 44 diatom species showed restricted distribution to this unique environment. Overall, the dominant diatom genera inside the swamps included, Navicula (19.8%), Gomphonema (16%), Eunotia (13.3%), Ulnaria (9.4%), Achnanthidium (8%), Frustulia (6.2%), Planothidium (5.2%), and Brachysira (2.8%). High diatom species richness was observed in the swamps having less anthropogenic disturbance, and diatom assemblage composition was primarily determined by dissolved oxygen, pH, and conductivity. The significant number of geographically restricted taxa in this study points towards our limited understanding of this tropical biome and calls for a dire need for more studies from here, not only to improve our knowledge concerning the diversity, ecology, and biogeography of these diatoms but to further encourage their use in applied (paleo) environmental sciences. Our results indicate that diatoms can prove useful environmental indicators even in harsh environments like swamps and can be a potential tool for assessing ecological and climatic change.
Dissecting Gonadoblastoma of the Ovary Coexistent with an Atypical Endometriotic Cyst: Incidental Detection in Cystectomy Specimen of a Woman with 46,XX Karyotype
Authors: Jung Hera , Yun Bo Seong , Jung Yoon Yang , Kim Hyun-Soo
Published: March 2022

Dissecting gonadoblastoma (DGB) of the ovary, a recently described terminology, defines a unique distribution of neoplastic germ cells. Here, we report a case of incidental DGB coexistent with an atypical endometriotic cyst occurring in a 23-year-old woman. The ovarian cyst was lined by endometrial-like glands and stroma. Some glands displayed nuclear enlargement and hyperchromasia, and abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm with occasional intracytoplasmic hemosiderin and mucin vacuoles. The neoplastic germ cells resembled those of ovarian dysgerminoma and were diffusely distributed within the ovarian stroma, which was stretched around the wall of the endometriotic cyst. These cells were arranged in nests and cords, possessing clear cytoplasm and centrally located round nuclei with prominent nucleoli and occasional mitoses. Chromosomal analysis revealed a 46,XX karyotype. We describe the clinical, histological, immunophenotypical, and genetic features of ovarian DGB incidentally detected in the ovarian cystectomy specimen of a woman with normal female karyotype.
Dynamic Change of Albumin-Bilirubin Score Is Good Predictive Parameter for Prognosis in Chronic Hepatitis C-hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients Receiving Transarterial Chemoembolization
Authors: Lin Po-Ting , Teng Wei , Jeng Wen-Juei , Chen Wei-Ting , Hsieh Yi-Chung , Huang Chien-Hao , Lui Kar-Wai , Hung Chen-Fu , Wang Ching-Ting , Chai Pei-Mei , Lin Chen-Chun , Lin Chun-Yen , Lin Shi-Ming , Sheen I-Shyan
Published: March 2022

Background and Aims: The Albumin-Bilirubin (ALBI) grade is a good index for liver function evaluation and is also associated with the outcomes of hepatocellular carcinoma patients receiving TACE. However, the correlation between the dynamic change to the ALBI score and clinical outcome is seldom discussed. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the application of ALBI grade and dynamic change of ALBI grade (delta ALBI grade) after first TACE for prognosis prediction in HCC patients with chronic hepatitis C infection. Method: From January 2005 to December 2015, newly diagnosed naive chronic hepatitis C-hepatocellular carcinoma (CHC-HCC) patients who were treated with TACE as the initial treatment at the Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, were retrospectively recruited. The pre-treatment host factors, tumor status and noninvasive markers were collected. The Cox regression model was used to identify independent predictors of overall survival and tumor recurrence. Results: Among 613 treatment-naive CHC-HCC patients, 430 patients died after repeated TACE during a median follow-up of 26.9 months. Complete remission after repeated TACE occurred in 46.2% patients, and 208 patients (33.9%) had tumor recurrence, with a median recurrence-free interval of 8.5 months. In Cox regression analysis, ALBI grade II/III (aHR: 1.088, p = 0.035) and increased delta ALBI grade (aHR: 1.456, p = 0.029) were independent predictive factors for tumor recurrence. Furthermore, ALBI grade II/III (aHR: 1.451, p = 0.005) and increased delta ALBI grade during treatment (aHR: 1.436, p = 0.006) were predictive factors for mortality, while achieving complete response after repeated TACE (aHR: 0.373, p < 0.001) and anti-viral therapy (aHR: 0.580, p = 0.002) were protective factors for mortality. Conclusion: Both ALBI and delta ALBI grade are independent parameters to predict survival and tumor recurrence of CHC-HCC patients receiving TACE treatment.
Information Dark Energy Can Resolve the Hubble Tension and Is Falsifiable by Experiment
Authors: Gough Michael Paul
Published: March 2022

We consider the role information energy can play as a source of dark energy. Firstly, we note that if stars and structure had not formed in the universe, elemental bits of information describing the attributes of particles would have exhibited properties similar to the cosmological constant. The Landauer equivalent energy of such elemental bits would be defined in form and value identical to the characteristic energy of the cosmological constant. However, with the formation of stars and structure, stellar heated gas and dust now provide the dominant contribution to information energy with the characteristics of a dynamic, transitional, dark energy. At low redshift, z < ~1.35, this dark energy emulates the cosmological constant with a near-constant energy density, w = −1.03 ± 0.05, and an energy total similar to the mc2 of the universe’s ∼1053 kg of baryons. At earlier times, z > ~1.35, information energy was phantom, differing from the cosmological constant, Λ, with a CPL parameter difference of ∆wo = −0.03 ± 0.05 and ∆wa = −0.79 ± 0.08, values sufficient to account for the H0 tension. Information dark energy agrees with most phenomena as well as Λ, while exhibiting characteristics that resolve many tensions and problems of ΛCDM: the cosmological constant problem; the cosmological coincidence problem; the H0 tension, and the σ8 tension. As this proposed dark energy source is not usually considered, we identify the expected signature in H(a) that will enable the role of information dark energy to be falsified by experimental observation.
Metaheuristic Algorithms Based on Compromise Programming for the Multi-Objective Urban Shipment Problem
Authors: Ngo Tung Son , Jaafar Jafreezal , Aziz Izzatdin Abdul , Aftab Muhammad Umar , Nguyen Hoang Giang , Bui Ngoc Anh
Published: March 2022

The Vehicle Routing Problem (VRP) and its variants are found in many fields, especially logistics. In this study, we introduced an adaptive method to a complex VRP. It combines multi-objective optimization and several forms of VRPs with practical requirements for an urban shipment system. The optimizer needs to consider terrain and traffic conditions. The proposed model also considers customers’ expectations and shipper considerations as goals, and a common goal such as transportation cost. We offered compromise programming to approach the multi-objective problem by decomposing the original multi-objective problem into a minimized distance-based problem. We designed a hybrid version of the genetic algorithm with the local search algorithm to solve the proposed problem. We evaluated the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm with the Tabu Search algorithm and the original genetic algorithm on the tested dataset. The results show that our method is an effective decision-making tool for the multi-objective VRP and an effective solver for the new variation of VRP.
Extraction of Time-Domain Characteristics and Selection of Effective Features Using Correlation Analysis to Increase the Accuracy of Petroleum Fluid Monitoring Systems
Authors: Mayet Abdulilah Mohammad , Alizadeh Seyed Mehdi , Nurgalieva Karina Shamilyevna , Hanus Robert , Nazemi Ehsan , Narozhnyy Igor M.
Published: March 2022

In the current paper, a novel technique is represented to control the liquid petrochemical and petroleum products passing through a transmitting pipe. A simulation setup, including an X-ray tube, a detector, and a pipe, was conducted by Monte Carlo N Particle-X version (MCNPX) code to examine a two-by-two mixture of four diverse petroleum products (ethylene glycol, crude oil, gasoline, and gasoil) in various volumetric ratios. As the feature extraction system, twelve time characteristics were extracted from the received signal, and the most effective ones were selected using correlation analysis to present reasonable inputs for neural network training. Three Multilayers perceptron (MLP) neural networks were applied to indicate the volume ratio of three kinds of petroleum products, and the volume ratio of the fourth product can be feasibly achieved through the results of the three aforementioned networks. In this study, increasing accuracy was placed on the agenda, and an RMSE < 1.21 indicates this high accuracy. Increasing the accuracy of predicting volume ratio, which is due to the use of appropriate characteristics as the neural network input, is the most important innovation in this study, which is why the proposed system can be used as an efficient method in the oil industry.
Development of Equivalent Circuit Models of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors Considering Core Loss
Authors: Ba Xin , Gong Zhenjie , Guo Youguang , Zhang Chengning , Zhu Jianguo
Published: March 2022

Permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) possesses the advantages of low power loss, high power density and high torque density and, hence, has achieved broad applications in both industrial drives and home appliances. With the increasing demands for high power density, the PMSM often operates at high speed and high frequency, leading to high power loss and temperature rise. Consequently, proper consideration of power loss, including the core loss, has attracted much attention for the modelling, designing, controlling and optimizing of PMSMs. However, the widely used equivalent circuit model, capable of providing good analysis results with fast calculation, often ignores the core loss, which may lead to unsatisfactory motor performance. This paper aims to investigate the development of equivalent circuit models, with predictable core loss for PMSMs, and proposes novel equivalent circuit models, which improve the core loss prediction accuracy in the load conditions. Some thoughts about the further improvement of the models are proposed and discussed.
Novel Design of Six-Phase Spoke-Type Ferrite Permanent Magnet Motor for Electric Truck Application
Authors: Won Hoyun , Hong Yang-Ki , Choi Minyeong , Platt Jonathan , Bryant Briana , Choi Seungdeog , Li Shuhui , Yoon Hwan-Sik , Haskew Timothy A. , Lee Jongkook , Lee Taegyu , Lim Tae-Won
Published: March 2022

This paper proposes a 300 kW 24-slot/10-pole 6-phase stator-shifted fractional-slot concentrated winding spoke-type ferrite permanent magnet machine for electric truck applications. The proposed motor consists of a stator with dual three-phase windings positioned 75 degrees apart to reduce higher-order MMF harmonic order, and a rotor with an inexpensive and high-resistance ferrite permanent magnet in the spoke configuration. The simulated result of the stator-shifted machine is compared with a fabricated stator-shifted machine, and the results show good agreement with each other. To further reduce the torque ripple from 2.5 to 0.9% while maintaining a high maximum torque of 2980 Nm, circular voids with a diameter of 11 mm are embedded in the rotor. The proposed motor is evaluated for irreversible demagnetization, mechanical and thermal stability, and fault tolerant ability. To assess the proposed motor performance, the electric truck simulation model is constructed using MATLAB/Simulink and used to compare with the reported 12-slot/10-pole rare-earth permanent magnet-based machine. Compared to a previously reported six-phase rare-earth permanent magnet based flat-type machine, the proposed motor can save 4.3 kWh of energy with a USD 2512 lower cost while retaining a similar motor performance.
Hydrogenation of CO2 or CO2 Derivatives to Methanol under Molecular Catalysis: A Review
Authors: Xue Wenxuan , Tang Conghui
Published: March 2022

The atmospheric CO2 concentration has been continuously increasing due to fossil fuel combustion. The transformations of CO2 and CO2 derivatives into high value-added chemicals such as alcohols are ideal routes to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Among alcohol products, methanol is very promising as it fulfills the carbon neutral cycle and can be used for direct methanol fuel cells. Herein, we summarize the recent progress in the hydrogenation of CO2 or CO2 derivatives to methanol, and focus on those systems with homogeneous catalysts and molecular hydrogen as the reductant. Discussions on the catalytic systems, efficiencies, and future outlooks will be given.
Credence Attributes in the Forestry Sector and the Role of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Factors
Authors: Klinger Sebastian , Bayne Karen M. , Yao Richard T. , Payn Tim
Published: March 2022

Credence or believability are paramount values in trade. The role of products’ credence attributes has been well-analysed in the agricultural and food sector. This study examined the application of credence attributes to forest management and forest products marketing for the first time. We describe specific credence attributes of forest products and highlight their values, benefits, and importance in international trade. We used Delphi interviews of experts and surveyed forest and trade experts to assess the perceived merits of credence attributes in the forestry sector. We also compared certification schemes and sustainable forest management (SFM) indicators against credence values. We found that credence attributes play an important role in the forestry sector for both timber forest products and non-timber forest products (NTFP). While some credence attributes, such as the legality of forest products, already form the basis for trade and certification and are standard practice, other credence attributes are rising in awareness and could potentially create new markets. This study revealed the potential value of health aspects of forest products, particularly regarding NTFP and recreational services. Certification schemes and SFM provide credence at a collective level, and must encompass the rising importance of individual credence attributes of these newer important values. Last, we summarized the emerging environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investment practices to assess how credence factors may help affect such investments. Awareness of credence attributes can inform ESG criteria, certification schemes, and sustainable forest management frameworks about present or potentially future market expectations. Sustaining and enhancing natural capital and the flow of ecosystem services they provide, as well as social and human capital, will play an increasingly important role for forestry companies in the next decade. A better understanding of forestry credence attributes can inform the management of ESG of forestry industries and markets more effectively.