bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of water footprint for crop production: a case study in North China
Authors: Wang Chunxiao , Zhao Jing , Tian Baochuan
Published: August 2021

In this study, green water footprint (GWF), blue water footprint (BWF) and total water footprint (WF) of five crops (i.e., wheat, maize, cotton, groundnut and beans) for ten subareas in North China are calculated. The spatial distribution of GWF, BWF and WF are analysed and results that different crop in different subareas have different GWF, BWF and WF. Due to the uneven precipitation, the contribution of GWF to WF is lower than BWF in winter and higher than BWF in summer. Moreover, cotton has the highest average value of WF (5.3579 m3/kg), then beans (1.4266 m3/kg), groundnut (1.069 m3/kg), wheat (0.7499 m3/kg). Maize has the lowest average value of WF (0.5695 m3/kg). It is suggested that the cultivated area of maize with the lowest WF should be expanded and the cultivated area of cotton with highest WF should be reduced. The results can help reduce water footprint of crops to ensure food security and alleviate water shortages.
Numerical Simulation of Wind Waves and calculation of planning wave factors in the East Taihu Lake, Jiangsu Province, China
Authors: Jun Chen , Fan Zhu , Xiang Lin
Published: August 2021

Taihu Lake is a large shallow lake in the lower Yangtze River Delta. The wave action in Taihu Lake plays an important role in coastal port construction. In this paper, based on the 10 min average wind speed at 10 m above the water surface recorded hourly from August 14 to August 17, 2014, the SWAN wave model is used to simulate the wind waves of the Taihu Lake in the corresponding period. Due to the lack of long-time series of wave observation data in the project area, the relationship between design wind speed and wind wave is used to calculate wave elements in different return periods. The results show that the strong wind direction and strong wave direction of the East Taihu Lake are NNW. The waves in the proposed Qidu harbor are mainly from the waves outside the permeable breakwater. Under the action of the most unfavorable wave direction NE, the effective wave height of most waters in the harbor is below 0.4m, which can meet the requirements of avoiding waves for fishing boats.
Short-term forecast of Yangtze River water level based on Long Short-Term Memory neural network
Authors: Chen Shinan , Qiao Yunkai
Published: August 2021

The water level fluctuation forecast of Yangtze River plays an important role in the navigation planning and other areas. This study used LSTM neural network to make short term forecast of the water level of Nanjing navigable river, focusing on the 2 days, 3 days and 5 days-forecast from the past 14 days. The error of mean square reached 0.064, 0.121 and 0.195, showing a rather accurate prediction. The model was also suitable for longer time series prediction. This study optimized the model by adjusting the hyper-parameters using qualitative and quantitative analysis and further decided that the batch size equals to 90 and the epoch equals to 250 in the case of 5 days-forecast from the past 14 days. The prediction accuracy increased by 21% with a good prediction performance, and the error of mean square was reduced to 0.153. It provided a reference for the selection of hyper-parameters for the prediction of water level in Nanjing station by LSTM neural network.
Temporal and Spatial Variation of water quality in the Yongding River Basin
Authors: Xie Ying , Jinjin Ge , Guo Yue , Peng Wenqi , Wang Liming
Published: August 2021

For exploring the water quality and macroinvertebrate community characteristics of the Yongding River Basin, investigation of water environment and macroinvertebrates was conducted in 34 sampling sites in August 2016 and April 2017. Furthermore, Water Quality Index (WQI) and biological index (BI) were used to assess the water quality of studied rivers. According to the water quality evaluation results of the WQI and the BI method, the water quality of most sites in non-flood season were equal to or better than those in flood season, and these sites were mostly located in urban area. The dominant land use and non-point source pollution was the primary contributor to water quality degradation in rural areas. There are both similarities and differences between BI index and water quality identification index. From the evaluation results of Sanggan River, Yanghe River and Yongding River, the water quality of Yanghe River is better than that of Sanggan River and Yongding River.
Progress of On-line Biological Monitoring Technology in Different Water Environment
Authors: Chen Long , Liu Yan , Lv Jing , Kong Xiangfeng , Wang Jingru
Published: August 2021

In recent years, there have been frequent occurrences of vicious water pollution incidents, and the technical requirements for water environment monitoring have greatly increased. The use of biological monitoring technology to assess the water environment has developed rapidly. This article analyzes the basic principles of different aquatic biological monitoring technologies, introduces the methods and characteristics of different aquatic biological monitoring, and summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of various biological monitoring technologies, and finally prospects the future development of biological monitoring technologies.
Optimal Allocation and Integrated Dispatch of Regional Water Resources in Yunnan Province — Problems and Countermeasures
Authors: Kun Wu , Jinming Chen , Jianguang Su , Rong Gao , Shixiang Gu
Published: August 2021

Amid rapid economic growth, the contradiction between water resources carrying capacity and distribution of productive forces have escalated, indicating the increasing barriers that water shortage and pollution have posed to sustainable development of the economy and society. China has currently entered an age of “new normal” in economic progress, during which constraints are imposed on resources and environment, ecological products become more indispensable, while infrastructure connectivity, and mechanism innovation appear more essential. Therefore, it remains important to dive into how to proactively implement the water management policy of the new era. The policy advocates overall planning and integrated management, requiring relevant agencies to comprehensively enhance the security of water availability and scientific management capabilities to resolve prominent problems of systematic management and coordination between the market and government under the premise of prioritizing water conservation and promoting spatial water balance. This paper conducted a preliminary analysis of problems about water resources allocation and dispatch management in some key areas of Yunnan Province and raised targeted suggestions including innovation in management mechanisms and approaches, and promotion of integrated management and scientific dispatch of water resources. The purpose is to provide some references for Yunnan about its integrated allocation and dispatch management of water resources in key areas and the network of major water supply projects.
State Analysis of Apple Industry in China
Authors: Wu Zhichao , Pan Chen
Published: August 2021

China is the first apple production country in the world, and apple planting industry occupies an important position in China, so through the analysis of the state of apple industry in China. It is of great significance to stabilize the apple commodity market and promote the healthy development of the industry. According to the preliminary analysis of the data, it can be found that with the increase of the year, the apple yield has a significant linear growth trend. Therefore, through comprehensive analysis, this paper establishes a regression model and uses MATLAB to solve. Based on the test and analysis of the model, five criteria are given to judge the merits and demerits of the data, and the requirements of data integrity, that is, whether there is abnormal data culling in the process of model fitting. By analyzing the export volume of fresh apple and apple juice in China and the world, the export scatter model of fresh apple and apple juice in China and the world is established. The scattered point model of apple planting area between China and the world is established. It shows that China’s apple market plays a very important role in and influences international trade. China is the largest apple producer in the world and plays an important role in the international apple production. The influencing factors of fresh apple export include distance, economic development of importing country, international politics, product quality, cost, market environment and brand. In terms of the future change law and forecast, the development level of the apple industry is constantly improving, the supply will continue to exceed the demand in the next few years. And the polarization phenomenon of domestic apple price will be more and more obvious.
Research on Elastic Loads Participating in Demand Response Based on the Price Mechanism and the Demand Elasticity
Authors: Ding Yifan , Ma Yahui , Jiang Haiyan , Xi Weimin
Published: August 2021

Elastic load can be regarded as a demand response resource, such as the temperature-controlled loads, the energy storage and the electric vehicles. It participates in the operation and dispatch of the power grid, and its position is becoming more and more important in the future power system. Due to the complex economic environment of the power market, all users involved in demand response are required to interact with each other to obtain an efficient control and dispatch method. From the perspective of user economy, this article takes the minimum total cost of user electricity as the objective function to optimize the load demand response. Two different algorithms, the particle swarm algorithm and the nonlinear algorithm, are used to solve the problem. The results show that the application of particle swarm optimization in the elastic load demand response has obvious characteristics and advantages.
Research Progress on the Impact of Urbanization on Precipitation in Beijing
Authors: Zhang Yuezhu
Published: August 2021

This paper analyzes and summarizes the main approaches and conclusions of previous studies. The approaches are divided into the observation-based method and the model-based method. These researches aimed to find out the trend in precipitation in Beijing and the influencing schemes. The difficulties they faced include coupling induction of urban and terrain as well as the complexity of urban canopy simulation. In the end, it can be concluded that different research approaches may produce different results, thus it is important to improve the weather models and Urban Canopy Model in order to solve the difficulties such as coupling induction and the complexity of urban canopy simulation. The improvement in data analysis and models can both lead to a more accurate result.
Study on the midway docking mode of the regional trunk transportation network
Authors: Han Ze Xuan
Published: August 2021

This paper presents a new form of trunk transport network to improve the loading rate and reduce the vehicle stopping through the distribution centre. The article first compares the empty waste of vehicles between point to point direct mode and midway stop mode, obtains the applicable conditions of regional trunk logistics transportation network and midway docking transportation mode, and analyzes the feasibility of trunk logistics vehicles.
Study on the Optimization of the Multimodal Transport Scheme of Railway Containers
Authors: Ning Lv
Published: August 2021

Based on the VRP model, we establish a model for path optimization. Through the node splitting method, different transport paths and modes are combined into the multimodal network, and a model of the multimodal path optimization problem targeting transport cost and transport time minimum by the introduced weights is constructed and solved with EXCLE. Finally, the examples are calculated to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the path optimization models.
Long Multi-digit Number Recognition from Images Empowered by Deep Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Asif Muhammad , Bin Ahmad Maaz , Mushtaq Shiza , Masood Khalid , Mahmood Toqeer , Ali Nagra Arfan
Published: August 2021

Scanning images and converting the scanned information into digital format is an active research area. Scanning is an automated, fast and efficient process as compared to the traditional data entry, and the resultant converted data is more accurate. Recognizing digits from the scanned images is a challenging task. To address this issue, most of the existing techniques perform multiple individual steps that are localization, segmentation and recognition. Some researchers also focused on adopting a unified approach that combined these three steps for multi-digit recognition of up to five digits. To cope with the modern requirements, a unified multi-digit recognition technique capable of recognizing more than five digits is the need of the hour. Considering this necessity, a unified multi-digit recognition approach is presented in the current study that can recognize sequences up to 18 digits long. The proposed technique is based on a deep convolutional neural network algorithm that performs two basic functions. First, it localizes and extracts the region of interest in the image, and then it performs multi-digit recognition. The proposed algorithm recognizes sequences of up to 18 characters that makes it one of the preferred recognition techniques among the existing algorithms. The proposed technique is compared with state-of-the-art techniques and is proved to be superior and robust. The experiments are performed on two datasets, and overall accuracy up to 98% is achieved.
Non-autophagy Role of Atg5 and NBR1 in Unconventional Secretion of IL-12 Prevents Gut Dysbiosis and Inflammation
Authors: Merkley Seth D , Goodfellow Samuel M , Guo Yan , Wilton Zoe E R , Byrum Janie R , Schwalm Kurt C , Dinwiddie Darrell L , Gullapalli Rama R , Deretic Vojo , Jimenez Hernandez Anthony , Bradfute Steven B , In Julie G , Castillo Eliseo F
Published: August 2021

Intestinal myeloid cells play a critical role in balancing intestinal homeostasis and inflammation. Here, we report that expression of the autophagy-related 5 [Atg5] protein in myeloid cells prevents dysbiosis and excessive intestinal inflammation by limiting IL-12 production. Mice with a selective genetic deletion of Atg5 in myeloid cells [Atg5ΔMye] showed signs of dysbiosis preceding colitis, and exhibited severe intestinal inflammation upon colitis induction that was characterised by increased IFNγ production. The exacerbated colitis was linked to excess IL-12 secretion from Atg5-deficient myeloid cells and gut dysbiosis. Restoration of the intestinal microbiota or genetic deletion of IL-12 in Atg5ΔMye mice attenuated the intestinal inflammation in Atg5ΔMye mice. Additionally, Atg5 functions to limit IL-12 secretion through modulation of late endosome [LE] acidity. Last, the autophagy cargo receptor NBR1, which accumulates in Atg5-deficient cells, played a role by delivering IL-12 to LE. In summary, Atg5 expression in intestinal myeloid cells acts as an anti-inflammatory brake to regulate IL-12, thus preventing dysbiosis and uncontrolled IFNγ-driven intestinal inflammation.
Left atrial strain is a predictor of left ventricular systolic and diastolic reverse remodelling in CRT candidates
Authors: Galli Elena , Oger Emmanuel , Aalen John M , Duchenne Jürgen , Larsen Camilla K , Sade Elif , Hubert Arnaud , Gallard Alban , Penicka Martin , Linde Cecilia , Le Rolle Virginie , Hernandez Alfredo , Leclercq Christophe , Voigt Jens Uwe , Smiseth Otto A , Donal Erwan
Published: August 2021

Aims

The left atrium (LA) has a pivotal role in cardiac performance and LA deformation is a well-known prognostic predictor in several clinical conditions including heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) on both LA morphology and function and to assess the impact of LA reservoir strain (LARS) on left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic remodelling after CRT.

Methods and results

Two hundred and twenty-one CRT-candidates were prospectively included in the study in four tertiary centres and underwent echocardiography before CRT-implantation and at 6-month follow-up (FU). CRT-response was defined by a 15% reduction in LV end-systolic volume. LV systolic and diastolic remodelling were defined as the percent reduction in LV end-systolic and end-diastolic volume at FU. Indexed LA volume (LAVI) and LV-global longitudinal (GLS) strain were the main parameters correlated with LARS, with LV-GLS being the strongest determinant of LARS (r = −0.59, P < 0.0001). CRT induced a significant improvement in LAVI and LARS in responders (both P < 0.0001). LARS was an independent predictor of both LV systolic and diastolic remodelling at follow-up (r = −0.14, P = 0.049 and r = −0.17, P = 0.002, respectively).

Conclusion

CRT induces a significant improvement in LAVI and LARS in responders. In CRT candidates, the evaluation of LARS before CRT delivery is an independent predictor of LV systolic and diastolic remodelling at FU.
Oral antithrombotic therapy for the prevention of recurrent cerebrovascular events
Authors: Capodanno Davide , Angiolillo Dominick J
Published: August 2021

Stroke is frequently a disabling and even life-threatening condition that has an ischaemic cause in most cases. Transient ischaemic attack (TIA) is a lower risk condition that still exposes to the risk of future major cardiovascular events. The causes of stroke can be classified as cardioembolic disease, large vessel disease, small vessel disease, undetermined, or others. Cardioembolic disease and atherothrombosis of large arteries are the most common underlying processes of ischaemic stroke and TIA. Therefore, antithrombotic therapy is a central strategy in the pharmacological management of these patients. However, because antithrombotic therapy provides ischaemic protection at the price of increased bleeding, defining the fine balance between efficacy and safety is a clinical challenge. Numerous trials have recently defined the current indications to the use of anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapy in patients with various subtypes of ischaemic stroke or TIA. In this review, we provide an updated appraisal of the currently available evidence on the use of various oral antithrombotic agents for prevention of recurrent events after an ischaemic stroke or TIA.
Reintegrating Biology Through the Nexus of Energy, Information, and Matter
Authors: Hoke Kim L , Zimmer Sara L , Roddy Adam B , Ondrechen Mary Jo , Williamson Craig E , Buan Nicole R
Published: August 2021

Synopsis

Information, energy, and matter are fundamental properties of all levels of biological organization, and life emerges from the continuous flux of matter, energy, and information. This perspective piece defines and explains each of the three pillars of this nexus. We propose that a quantitative characterization of the complex interconversions between matter, energy, and information that comprise this nexus will help us derive biological insights that connect phenomena across different levels of biological organization. We articulate examples from multiple biological scales that highlight how this nexus approach leads to a more complete understanding of the biological system. Metrics of energy, information, and matter can provide a common currency that helps link phenomena across levels of biological organization. The propagation of energy and information through levels of biological organization can result in emergent properties and system-wide changes that impact other hierarchical levels. Deeper consideration of measured imbalances in energy, information, and matter can help researchers identify key factors that influence system function at one scale, highlighting avenues to link phenomena across levels of biological organization and develop predictive models of biological systems.
Degenerations of Grassmannians via Lattice Configurations
Authors: He Xiang , Zhang Naizhen
Published: August 2021

We study degenerations of Grassmannians constructed using convex lattice configurations in Bruhat–Tits buildings. Using techniques from quiver representations, we analyze their special fibers, which are explicitly described as quiver Grassmannians. For a class of lattice configurations, called the locally linearly independent configurations, we show that our construction coincide with Mustafin degenerations, thus generalizing a result of Faltings. In such cases, our analysis of special fibers also generalizes results of Cartwright et al. As an application, we prove a smoothing criterion for limit linear series on arbitrary reducible nodal curves.
A retrospective single-site data-linkage study comparing manual to electronic data abstraction for routine post-operative nausea and vomiting audit
Authors: Miller M , Strazdins E , Young S , Kalish N , Congreve K
Published: August 2021

Background

Post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a common cause of patient dissatisfaction following anaesthesia. Audit of adherence to PONV prevention guidelines is resource intensive when performed by manual chart extraction. Electronic audit can require costly anaesthetic and medical records.

Objective

In our single-site study we sought to compare manual and electronic PONV audits by utilizing existing non-anaesthetic electronic medical records to avoid expensive additional software.

Methods

The audits were performed from 13 January 2020 to 1 February 2020 for surgical inpatients. Two PONV periods were captured—the post-anaesthetic recovery unit and on the ward (to 24 h). Electronic PONV was defined as the administration of an anti-emetic medication. A 6-month electronic PONV rate was also calculated.

Results

Manual audit captured 142 patients and electronic audit captured 294 patients, over the same time period. The manual PONV rate was 10% (95% confidence interval (CI) 5–16%) in the post-anaesthetic recovery unit and 20% (95% CI 14–28%) the next day. The electronic rate was 5% (95% CI 3–8%) in the post-anaesthetic recovery unit and 15% (11–19%) in a 24-h period. The 6-month electronic audit found 3510 patients, with a post-anaesthetic recovery unit and 24-h PONV rates of 5% (4–6%) and 14% (13–16%), respectively. Electronic audit did not identify 5.8% of PONV patients in the manual audit.

Conclusion

Electronic audit enrolled more patients and identified a lower PONV rate than manual audit, likely from less enrolment bias. Electronic audit was easily repeated over a 6-month period. While electronic PONV audit is possible without additional software, an electronic anaesthetic chart would greatly improve audit quality.
Pavement Burns in New Mexico: Our Experiences, Treatments, and Outcomes
Authors: Laarakker Avra S , Rich Audrey , Wu Eugene
Published: August 2021

This study focused on patients treated at the University of New Mexico Burn Center who sustained burn injuries from contact with environmentally heated pavement. We report on our patient demographics and outcomes as well as describe our institutional staged surgical approach to treatment. We provide a comparison of our results with other case reports as well as other findings. A retrospective review of patients admitted to the University of New Mexico Burn Center with injuries suffered from contact with hot pavement was performed. Patients were stratified on the presence or absence of altered mental status (AMS) and additional inciting factors. A total of six patients were reviewed from 2018 to 2019. We looked at patient demographics and comorbidities, time of contact with hot pavement, inciting factors, total body surface area (TBSA) burned, location of areas burned, depth of burn injury at the time of presentation and at the time of initial operative debridement, percentage of autograft take, complications, length of stay (LOS), and final disposition. The patients in our study had a mean TBSA of 9.82% corresponding to pressure points of the body. All patients had nearly 100% conversion to full-thickness burns at the time of initial operative debridement. With staged excision and split-thickness autografting, our patients had nearly 100% take of their skin grafts with minimal graft loss or related complications. At the time of presentation, 100% of patients had AMS and 66% (4/6) had a drug- or alcohol-related inciting event. Finally, the average LOS was 19.5 days in comparison to 7 to 9 days for uncomplicated burns of equivalent size at our burn center. Despite an initial appearance of a partial-thickness burn, pavement burns had a high propensity to convert to full-thickness burns. Patients with AMS contributed to our patient population being found with pavement burns. Patients with pavement burns had a distinct anatomic pattern corresponding to pressure points of the body which were often areas at high risk for skin and wound breakdown and complications. Staged excision and split-thickness autografting in the treatment of pavement burns yielded excellent results. Finally, our data showed that providers must be prepared for an extended LOS for patients with pavement burns.
The Collective Behavior of Ant Groups Depends on Group Genotypic Composition
Authors: Walsh Justin T , Garonski Anna , Jackan Claire , Linksvayer Timothy A
Published: August 2021

Recently, researchers have documented variation between groups in collective behavior. However, how genetic variation within and between groups contributes to population-level variation for collective behavior remains unclear. Understanding how genetic variation of group members relates to group-level phenotypes is evolutionarily important because there is increasing evidence that group-level behavioral variation influences fitness and that the genetic architecture of group-level traits can affect the evolutionary dynamics of traits. Social insects are ideal for studying the complex relationship between individual and group-level variation because they exhibit behavioral variation at multiple scales of organization. To explore how the genetic composition of groups affects collective behavior, we constructed groups of pharaoh ants (Monomorium pharaonis) from 33 genetically distinct colonies of known pedigree. The groups consisted of either all workers from the same single colony or workers from two genetically different colonies, and we assayed the exploration and aggression of the groups. We found that collective exploration, but not aggression, depended on the specific genotypic combination of group members, i.e., we found evidence for genotype-by-genotype epistasis for exploration. Group collective behavior did not depend on the pedigree relatedness between genotypes within groups. Overall, this study highlights that specific combinations of genotypes influence group-level phenotypes, emphasizing the importance of considering nonadditive effects of genotypic interactions between group members.
ʿAlī b. al-Madīnī (161–234/778–849): A Critical Reconstruction of His Biography and Evaluation of His Contribution to ḤadĪth Criticism
Authors: Su I-Wen
Published: August 2021

Considered precursors of ḥadīth criticism, the opinions of ʿAlī b. ʿAbdallāh b. Jaʿfar al-Madīnī (161–234/778–849), extensively cited by later ḥadīth scholars, have given considerable weight to the credibility of a ḥadīth and its transmitters. Despite his centrality to the science of ḥadīth, there is not a single monograph dedicated to him and his intellectual output in the scholarly literature in English. This article presents a critical reconstruction of his life. Although the biographical sources on ʿAlī b. al-Madīnī are copious, the earliest details, especially on evaluation of his scholarly accomplishment, are often tendentious and contradictory. There is also a controversy related to his submission to the miḥna. Analysis of these biographical reports intimates that the questioning voices mainly came from the early Ḥanbalī circle, while other scholars, comprising Yaḥyā b. Maʿīn’s disciples and non-Baghdadis, especially of Basran and Khurasani origins, tended to defend ʿAlī b. al-Madīnī. This paper argues that ʿAlī b. al-Madīnī’s unfaltering status as a leading ḥadīth critic can be attributed to the geographical outreach of his supporters, whose overall attitude towards the createdness of the Qurʾān is more tolerant compared with that of the Ḥanbalīs. More importantly, ʿAlī b. al-Madīnī’s contribution to the formation of ḥadīth criticism as a discipline was realized from early on, which is manifest in his knowledge of ʿilm al-rijāl and mastery of ʿilal al-ḥadīth. His theorization of ḥadīth transmission through the framework of the madār al-isnād also laid the epistemological foundation for the following ḥadīth critics in their formulation of the disciplinary history.
Developing and Validating the Communication Resilience Processes Scale
Authors: Wilson Steven R , Kuang Kai , Hintz Elizabeth A , Buzzanell Patrice M
Published: August 2021

According to the communication theory of resilience (CTR; P. M. Buzzanell, 2010), people reintegrate from disruptive events and construct a new normal through five interrelated processes: (a) crafting normalcy; (b) affirming identity anchors; (c) maintaining/using communication networks; (d) constructing alternative logics; and (e) foregrounding productive action while backgrounding negative emotions. Enacting these processes creates tensions between continuity and change. This article develops a Communication Resilience Processes Scale (CRPS) to assess CTR processes in response to a variety of disruptive events. Items were created and refined via a scale development study with feedback from expert raters. Studies 2 and 3 offer initial support for the 32-item CRPS’ reliability and convergent, divergent, and predictive validity. Models in which the five CTR processes are subsumed by a single, higher-order resilience factor versus two higher-order interrelated factors (continuity and change) are compared. Future directions for exploring continuity/change tensions and identifying CTR boundary conditions are discussed.
Safety and Tolerability of Mebendazole in Infants Under 1 Year of Age
Authors: Kahan Yaara , Lugassy-Akian Eve , Ovadia Adi , Dalal Ilan , Somekh Eli , Tasher Diana
Published: August 2021

This paper presents the largest cohort to date of infants under 1 year of age treated with mebendazole. We evaluated the occurrence of mebendazole-associated clinical and laboratory toxicity as safety data in this age group are currently lacking.
From crops to shops: how agriculture can use circadian clocks
Authors: Hotta Carlos Takeshi
Published: August 2021

Knowledge about environmental and biological rhythms can lead to more sustainable agriculture in a climate crisis and resource scarcity scenario. When rhythms are considered, more efficient and cost-effective management practices can be designed for food production. The circadian clock is used to anticipate daily and seasonal changes, organize the metabolism during the day, integrate internal and external signals, and optimize interaction with other organisms. Plants with a circadian clock in synchrony with the environment are more productive and use fewer resources. In medicine, chronotherapy is used to increase drug efficacy, reduce toxicity, and understand the health effects of circadian clock disruption. Here, I show evidence of why circadian biology can be helpful in agriculture. However, as evidence is scattered among many areas, they frequently lack field testing, integrate poorly with other rhythms, or suffer inconsistent results. These problems can be mitigated if researchers of different areas start collaborating under a new study area—circadian agriculture.
OTHR-01. Unmet clinical needs in patients with brain metastases in the current treatment era
Authors: Eggen Annemarie C , Bosma Ingeborg , Hiltermann Thijo J N , Hospers Geke A P , Reyners Anna K L , Jalving Mathilde
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Brain metastases are associated with high morbidity and mortality. With the implementation of effective treatments, long-term survival is possible for some patients. However, most patients still die of their disease. The uncertain prognosis and potentially high symptom burden make managing these patients complex. We aimed to identify the unmet needs in the care of patients with brain metastases.

Method

Consecutive patients with melanoma or NSCLC brain metastases completed questionnaires assessing distress (distress thermometer), quality-of-life (FACT-general), and information provided on potential symptoms, supportive care, and do-not-resuscitate code (study-specific questionnaire) between Nov’18-Nov’19. Separate focus groups were organized with patients with melanoma brain metastases, primary caregivers of deceased patients, and general practitioners. The results were discussed with hospital-based healthcare professionals to identify additional issues.

Results

Questionnaires were completed by 59 patients (25 melanoma, 34 NSCLC) at a median time after brain metastases diagnosis of 11.5 months (range: 0.7–88). Thirty-five patients (59%) experienced distress (distress thermometer ≥4), and 20 patients (34%) expressed interest in supportive care. Furthermore, 40 patients (68%) remembered being informed about potential brain metastases symptoms, and 18 patients (31%) would have liked more information on potential symptoms. Psychosocial support was offered to 31 patients (53%) and 17/51 primary caregivers (33%). Patients emphasized that, despite potential information overload, they preferred to be fully informed about potential symptoms, treatments including outcomes, and psychosocial support availability. Caregivers highlighted the caregiver burden and importance of advance care planning. General practitioners were keen for guidelines on brain metastases symptom management in the home setting. Hospital-based professionals advocated a structured approach, with early identification of palliative care needs and an overview of involved healthcare professionals.

Conclusion

Our results highlight the need for structured, multidisciplinary management of patients with brain metastases with special attention to symptom and caregiver burden, information provision, and advance care planning.
KBc algebra and the gauge invariant overlap in open string field theory
Authors: Arroyo E Aldo
Published: August 2021

We study in detail the evaluation of the gauge invariant overlap for analytic solutions constructed out of elements in the $KBc$ algebra in open string field theory. We compute this gauge invariant observable using analytical and numerical techniques based on the sliver frame $\mathcal{L}_0$ and traditional Virasoro $L_0$ level expansions of the solutions.
Establishing a counter-empathy processing model: evidence from functional magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Jie Jing , Fan Min , Yang Yong , Luo Pinchao , Wang Yijing , Li Junjiao , Chen Wei , Zhuang Mengdi , Zheng Xifu
Published: August 2021

Counter-empathy significantly affects people’s social lives. Previous evidence indicates that the degree of counter-empathy can be either strong or weak. Strong counter-empathy easily occurs when empathizers are prejudiced against the targets of empathy (e.g. prejudice against outgroup members) and activates brain regions that are opposite to those activated by empathy. Weak counter-empathy may have different neural processing paths from strong ones, but its underlying neural mechanisms remain unclear. In this work, we used an unfair distribution paradigm, which can reduce participants’ prejudice against persons empathized with, and functional magnetic resonance imaging to explore the neural mechanisms underlying counter-empathy. Here, empathy and counter-empathy shared a common neural mechanism, induced by unfair distribution, in the right middle temporal gyrus. Counter-empathy activated distinct brain regions that differed from those of empathic responses in different situations. The functions of these brain regions, which included the middle frontal, middle temporal and left medial superior gyri, were similar and mostly related to emotional regulation and cognitive processing. Here, we propose a process model of counter-empathy, involving two processing paths according to whether or not prejudice exists. This study has theoretical significance and broadens our understanding of the cognitive neural mechanisms underlying empathy and counter-empathy.
Once-nightly sodium oxybate (FT218) demonstrated improvement of symptoms in a phase 3 randomized clinical trial in patients with narcolepsy
Authors: Kushida Clete A , Shapiro Colin M , Roth Thomas , Thorpy Michael J , Corser Bruce C , Ajayi Akinyemi O , Rosenberg Russell , Roy Asim , Seiden David , Dubow Jordan , Dauvilliers Yves
Published: August 2021

Study Objectives

To assess the efficacy and safety of FT218, a novel once-nightly formulation of sodium oxybate (ON-SXB), in patients with narcolepsy in the phase 3 REST-ON trial.

Methods

Narcolepsy patients aged ≥16 years were randomized 1:1 to uptitration of ON-SXB (4.5, 6, 7.5, and 9 g) or placebo. Three coprimary endpoints were change from baseline in mean sleep latency on the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test, Clinical Global Impression-Improvement rating, and weekly cataplexy attacks at 9, 7.5, and 6 g. Secondary endpoints included change from baseline on the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Safety included adverse drug reactions and clinical laboratory assessments.

Results

In total, 222 patients were randomized; 212 received ≥1 dose of ON-SXB (n = 107) or placebo (n = 105). For the three coprimary endpoints and Epworth Sleepiness Scale, all three doses of ON-SXB demonstrated clinically meaningful, statistically significant improvement versus placebo (all p < 0.001). For ON-SXB 9 g versus placebo, increase in mean sleep latency was 10.8 versus 4.7 min (Least squares mean difference, LSMD [95% CI], 6.13 [3.52 to 8.75]), 72.0% versus 31.6% were rated much/very much improved on Clinical Global Impression-Improvement (OR [95% CI], 5.56 [2.76 to 11.23]), change in mean weekly number of cataplexy attacks was –11.5 versus –4.9 (LSMD [95% CI], –6.65 [–9.32 to –3.98]), and change in Epworth Sleepiness Scale was –6.5 and –2.7 (LSMD [95% CI], –6.52 [–5.47 to –2.26]). Common adverse reactions included nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and enuresis.

Conclusions

ON-SXB significantly improved narcolepsy symptoms; its safety profile was consistent with SXB. ON-SXB conferred efficacy with a clearly beneficial single nighttime dose.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02720744, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02720744.
Circular RNA expression profiles in human bronchial epithelial cells treated with beryllium sulfate
Authors: Liu Yan-ping , Cai Ying , Lei Yuan-di , Yuan Xiao-yan , Wang Ye , Yi Shan , Li Xun-ya , Huang Lian , Long Ding-xin , Zhang Zhao-hui
Published: August 2021

Circular RNAs (circRNAs), is a novel type of endogenous non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) participated in the pathogenesis of many diseases. Beryllium is one of the carcinogenesis elements. However, the mechanism and function of circRNAs in human bronchial epithelial cells (16HBE) induced by beryllium sulfate (BeSO4) was rarely reported. Therefore, the high-throughput RNA sequencing analysis was performed to detect the circRNA profiles between control groups and BeSO4-induced groups. Furthermore, circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network, Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, and PPI network analysis were used for bioinformatics analysis. CircRNA sequencing analysis revealed that 36 circRNAs were up-regulated and 35 circRNAs were down-regulated in the BeSO4-exposed groups. The selected circRNAs were verified by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR). Hsa_circ_0004214 and hsa_circ_0003586 were validated to be up-regulated, hsa_circ_0047958, hsa_circ_0001944, and hsa_circ_0008982 were down-regulated. The circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network annotated the key signaling pathway including cellular senescence, TNF signaling pathway, NF-kappa B signaling pathway, HIF-1 signaling pathway, and Hippo signaling pathway. The PPI network indicated the most circRNAs might participate in the BeSO4 toxicity by acting as a sponge for the miR-663b through JAK–STAT signaling pathway. In summary, our study suggests that circRNAs may play roles in the mechanism of beryllium toxicity.
Fungicide Sensitivity of Colletotrichum Species Causing Bitter Rot of Apple in the Mid-Atlantic U.S.A.
Authors: Martin Phillip L. , Krawczyk Teresa , Pierce Kristen , Thomas Catherine , Khodadadi Fatemeh , Aćimović Srđan G. , Peter Kari A.
Published: August 2021

Apple growers in the Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S.A. have reported increased losses to bitter rot of apple. We tested the hypothesis that this increase is because the Colletotrichum population has developed resistance to commonly used single-mode-of-action (single-MoA) fungicides. We screened 220 Colletotrichum isolates obtained from 38 apple orchards in the Mid-Atlantic region for resistance to 11 fungicides in Fungicide Resistance Action Committee (FRAC) groups 1, 7, 9, 11, 12, and 29. Eleven (5%) of these isolates were resistant to FRAC group 1 with confirmed β-tubulin E198A mutations, and two (<1%) were also resistant to FRAC group 11 with confirmed cytochrome-b G143A mutations. Such low frequencies of resistant isolates indicate that fungicide resistance is unlikely to be the cause of any regional increase in bitter rot. A subsample of isolates was subsequently tested in vitro for sensitivity to every single-MoA fungicide registered for apple in the Mid-Atlantic U.S.A. (22 fungicides; FRAC groups 1, 3, 7, 9, 11, 12, and 29), and 13 fungicides were tested in field trials. These fungicides varied widely in efficacy both within and between FRAC groups. Comparisons of results from our in vitro tests with results from our field trials and other field trials conducted across the eastern U.S.A. suggested that EC25 values (concentrations that reduce growth by 25%) are better predictors of fungicide efficacy in normal field conditions than EC50 values. We present these results as a guideline for choosing single-MoA fungicides for bitter rot control in the Mid-Atlantic U.S.A.
The Evans Calcaneal Osteotomy Using a Buried K-Wire Technique
Authors: Hoffler Hayden L. , Bonvillian John P. , Blazek Cody D. , Dial Dekarlos M.
Published: August 2021

Lateral column lengthening is a common procedure used to treat stage 2 of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction with acquired flat foot deformity. This was first described by Evans, who used a tricortical iliac crest bone graft in the anterior calcaneus for the correction of flat feet. The Evans osteotomy is a common reproducible osteotomy that offers triplanar correction. We describe a less common operative technique using a buried K-wire to fixate the osteotomy to prevent dorsal subluxation of the distal fragment.

Level of Clinical Evidence: Diagnostic Level V. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Curve evolution during bracing in children with scoliosis secondary to early-onset neurofibromatosis type 1: indicators of rapid curve progression
Authors: Shi Ben-Long , Li Yang , Zhu Ze-Zhang , Mao Sai-Hu , Liu Zhen , Sun Xu , Qiu Yong
Published: August 2021

Background:

Scoliosis secondary to neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) in children aged <10 years is an important etiology of early-onset scoliosis (EOS). This study was performed to investigate the curve evolution of patients with EOS secondary to NF1 undergoing bracing treatment and to analyze high-risk indicators of rapid curve progression.

Methods:

Children with EOS due to NF1 who underwent bracing treatment from 2010 to 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. The angle velocity (AV) at each visit was calculated, and patients with rapid curve progression (AV of >10°/year) were identified. The age at modulation and the AV before and after modulation were obtained. Patients with (n = 18) and without rapid curve progression (n = 10) were statistically compared.

Results:

Twenty-eight patients with a mean age of 6.5 ± 1.9 years at the initial visit were reviewed. The mean Cobb angle of the main curve was 41.7° ± 2.4° at the initial visit and increased to 67.1° ± 8.6° during a mean follow-up of 44.1 ± 8.5 months. The overall AV was 6.6° ± 2.4°/year for all patients. At the last follow-up, all patients presented curve progression of >5°, and 20 (71%) patients had progressed by >20°. Rapid curve progression was observed in 18 (64%) patients and was associated with younger age at the initial visit and a higher incidence of modulation change during follow-up (t = 2.868, P = 0.008 and <0.001, respectively). The mean AV was 4.4° ± 1.2°/year before modulation and 11.8° ± 2.7°/year after modulation (t = 11.477, P < 0.010).

Conclusions:

Curve progression of >10°/year is associated with younger age at the initial visit, and modulation change indicated the occurrence of the rapid curve progression phase.
Challenges and Strategies to Mitigate Problematic Social Media Use in Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Macenski Christina L. , Hamel Matthew P. , McDougle Christopher J. , Thom Robyn P.
Published: August 2021

Learning objectives

After participating in this activity, learners should be better able to:

• Outline and discuss strategies to mitigate problematic social media use in psychiatric disorders

• Identify solutions to encourage healthy use

Social media has been found to contribute to a variety of different psychiatric disorders, with recent research showing a complex relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes. This article outlines how the strategies that social media sites utilize to increase user engagement can differentially affect individuals with psychiatric disorders, and proposes solutions that may promote more healthy use. With these aims in view, the article (1) delineates the strategies, often unrecognized, that social media sites use to increase user engagement, (2) highlights how these strategies can affect individuals with psychiatric disorders, and (3) proposes novel solutions to encourage healthy use. The first step to creating innovative and universal interventions is to understand the challenges faced by individuals with psychiatric disorders when using social media.
Dorsal root ganglion stimulation for treatment of central poststroke pain in the lower extremity after medullary infarction
Authors: Kretzschmar Michael , Reining Marco
Published: August 2021

We report a case of relief in central poststroke pain of the lower extremity by stimulation of the dorsal root ganglion (DRG). Central poststroke pain is a poorly understood and even more poorly managed condition that can greatly impact the quality of life. To the best of our knowledge, this investigation is the first to describe the successful treatment of previously intractable chronic pain caused by stroke using DRG stimulation. Noting the anatomical structures and the physiological function, the efficacy of DRG stimulation in central poststroke pain could be explained in a neurophysiological manner. This clinical observation successfully builds on the existing understanding around the pathophysiology of central pain and offers the possibility of nondrug therapy for the treatment of this often refractory chronic pain syndrome.