bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gross anatomical study of the subcutaneous structures that create the three‐dimensional shape of the buttocks
Authors: Han Aya , Inoue Eiko , Kikuchi Keishiiro , Haikata Yuto , Tabira Yoko , Iwanaga Joe , Saga Tsuyoshi , Kiyokawa Kensuke , Watanabe Koichi
Published: December 2022

The purpose of this study was to clarify the subcutaneous structures involved in the morphology of the gluteal region for clinical application. Thirty‐seven formalin‐fixed cadavers and one soft‐fixed cadaver were used in this study. Gluteal tissue was removed from five formalin‐fixed cadavers. A horizontal section and sections parallel to the long axis of the body were made from the excised tissue, and the subcutaneous fat was removed to observe the fibrous structure within the subcutaneous fat. Two formalin‐fixed cadavers and one soft‐fixed cadaver were used to perform conventional gross anatomical dissection and histological examination. On 30 formalin‐fixed cadavers, the thickness of the subcutaneous fat was measured in various areas of the buttocks. The thickness of subcutaneous fat was thicker in the center of the buttocks and thinner on the lateral buttocks. Superficial fascia (SF) was found only in the upper buttock, being indistinct in the lower buttock. In the sacral and coccygeal areas, the dermis was tightly adhered to the bone as a single mass. Fibers arose from around the iliac crest to the SF. On the medial side of the gluteal fold, a strong fiber arose from the sciatic tubercle and inserted into the gluteus maximus and dermis. By identifying the characteristic subcutaneous structures of the gluteal region, we were able to identify the anatomical structures that shape the three‐dimensional morphology of the buttocks. These findings may be useful in surgical treatments such as improving the buttock shape.
Poverty stigma, mental health, and well‐being: A rapid review and synthesis of quantitative and qualitative research
Authors: Inglis Greig , Jenkins Pamela , McHardy Fiona , Sosu Edward , Wilson Claire
Published: December 2022

Poverty is associated with higher rates of mental illness and lower levels of well‐being. Poverty affects mental health and well‐being through a range of mechanisms, one of which may be experiences of stigma associated with living in poverty or accessing services designed to assist individuals on low incomes (including social security). The aim of this study was to synthesise published research on the relationship between individuals' experiences of poverty stigma and aspects of mental health and well‐being. A rapid review was undertaken of quantitative and qualitative research published between January 2005 and February 2021. In total, 22 (5 quantitative and 17 qualitative or mixed methods) studies met the inclusion criteria, the findings of which were extracted and analysed using thematic synthesis. Experiences of poverty stigma were found to be associated with four broad aspects of mental health and well‐being: negative self‐evaluations, diminished social well‐being, negative affect, and mental ill‐health. Several forms of poverty stigma, including self, received, perceived, anticipated, and endorsed stigma were implicated in these associations. Poverty stigma may contribute to inequalities in mental illness and well‐being, although further quantitative and longitudinal research is required to test its impact on mental health.
Composition and Chemical Variability of the Essential Oil from Aerial Parts of Cladanthus scariosus, an Endemic Species to the Moroccan High Atlas
Authors: El Hafidi Souad , Bakhy Khadija , Ouhssine Mohammed , Benzakour Abderrahim , Khamar Hamid , Casanova Joseph , Paoli Mathieu , Tomi Félix
Published: December 2022

Cladanthus scariosus (Ball) Oberpr. & Vogt is endemic to Moroccan High Atlas. It is known under the vernacular names Irezghi or Irezgui. Three essential oil samples have been isolated from aerial parts and analyzed by combination of chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques [gas chromatography (GC) in combination with retention indices (RI), gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and 13C‐NMR spectroscopy]. The compositions of oil samples were dominated by monoterpenes: α‐pinene sabinene, and terpinen‐4‐ol. Chamazulene and dihydrochamazulene isomers as well as various hemiterpene esters and analogs have been identified. To evidence a chemical variability, statistical analysis performed on 13 oil sample compositions allowed partitioning into three groups, mainly differentiated by their contents of sabinene, camphor, borneol, terpinen‐4‐ol, and germacrene D.
Density functional theory simulation of heterogeneous polymerization reactions during biomass hydrothermal carbonization
Authors: Xue Qiao , Wang Ruikun , Meng Shu , Tan Shiteng , Zhao Zhenghui , Yin Qianqian , Li Huan
Published: December 2022

Carbonaceous microspheres formed through heterogeneous polymerization reactions during hydrothermal carbonization of biomass showed a considerable effect on the mass yield and physicochemical properties of hydrochar. In exploring the growth mechanism of carbonaceous microspheres, the heterogeneous polymerization reaction of four typical organic components (5‐hydroxymethylfurfural, furfural, phenol, and p‐xylene) with the surficial functional groups of carbonaceous microspheres was investigated using density functional theory (DFT). Nucleophilic addition and dehydration are the main forms of polymerization reactions, and the former shows a lower reaction energy barrier than the latter by 100 kJ/mol, indicating that the nucleophilic addition reactions likely occur compared to dehydration reactions. And phenol likely promotes the growth of microspheres. In addition, the surficial furan ring structure of carbonaceous microspheres opened through ring opening, hydrogen atom transfer, and molecular space structure conversion in sequence. Among these reaction steps, the furan ring opening through hydration was the rate‐limiting reaction step, which showed the highest energy barrier with a value of 394.51 kJ/mol. However, the ring opening of furan rings could form more active sites, such as carbonyl groups, for subsequent polymerization reactions, indicating an increased potential for further reactions with aqueous‐phase organic components.
Integrating Carbohydrate and C1 Utilization for Chemicals Production
Authors: Willers Vivian Pascal , Beer Barbara , Sieber Volker
Published: December 2022

In the face of increasing mobility and energy demand, as well as the mitigation of climate change, the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives to fossil fuels will be one of the most important tasks facing humankind in the coming years. In order to initiate the transition from a petroleum‐based economy to a new, greener future, biofuels and synthetic fuels have great potential as they can be adapted to already common processes. Thereby, especially synthetic fuels from CO2 and renewable energies are seen as the next big step for a sustainable and ecological life. In our study, we directly address the sustainable production of the most common biofuel, ethanol, and the highly interesting next‐generation biofuel, isobutanol, from methanol and xylose, which are directly derivable from CO2 and lignocellulosic waste streams, respectively, such integrating synthetic fuel and biofuel production. After enzyme and reaction optimization, we succeeded in producing either 3 g L−1 ethanol or 2 g L−1 isobutanol from 7.5 g L−1 xylose and 1.6 g L−1 methanol. In our cell‐free enzyme system, C1‐compounds are efficiently combined and fixed by the key enzyme transketolase and converted to the intermediate pyruvate. This opens the way for a hybrid production of biofuels, platform chemicals and fine chemicals from CO2 and lignocellulosic waste streams as alternative to conventional routes depending solely either on CO2 or sugars.
Fine‐needle aspiration biopsy diagnosis of histiocyte‐rich rhabdomyoblastic tumor (inflammatory leiomyosarcoma): A case report
Authors: McHugh Kelsey E. , Kilpatrick Scott E.
Published: December 2022

Histiocyte‐rich rhabdomyoblastic tumor (HRRMT) is an exceedingly rare soft tissue tumor of primitive myogenic differentiation. We report herein a case involving the soft tissue in the left lateral peri‐scapular region in a 68‐year‐old female with a 2‐month history of a non‐painful soft tissue mass. Ultrasound revealed a solid, ovoid subcutaneous mass lesion that lacked significant internal vascularity. Percutaneous fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy with concomitant core needle biopsy was performed, and a diagnosis of HRRMT was rendered. Cytologic smears were hypercellular, composed of a mixture of foamy histiocytes and a variably cohesive population of epithelioid and plasmacytoid to vaguely spindled cells in cohesive clusters and singly dispersed. Histologic material showed sheets of epithelioid and plasmacytoid to spindled cells with admixed foamy histiocytes with distended, vacuolated cytoplasm. To our knowledge, this is the first reported example of HRRMT evaluated by FNA biopsy.
A new GTSeq resource to facilitate multijurisdictional research and management of walleye Sander vitreus
Authors: Euclide Peter T. , Larson Wesley A. , Bootsma Matthew , Miller Loren M. , Scribner Kim T. , Stott Wendylee , Wilson Chris C. , Latch Emily K.
Published: December 2022

Conservation and management professionals often work across jurisdictional boundaries to identify broad ecological patterns. These collaborations help to protect populations whose distributions span political borders. One common limitation to multijurisdictional collaboration is consistency in data recording and reporting. This limitation can impact genetic research, which relies on data about specific markers in an organism's genome. Incomplete overlap of markers between separate studies can prevent direct comparisons of results. Standardized marker panels can reduce the impact of this issue and provide a common starting place for new research. Genotyping‐in‐thousands (GTSeq) is one approach used to create standardized marker panels for nonmodel organisms. Here, we describe the development, optimization, and early assessments of a new GTSeq panel for use with walleye (Sander vitreus) from the Great Lakes region of North America. High genome‐coverage sequencing conducted using RAD capture provided genotypes for thousands of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). From these markers, SNP and microhaplotype markers were chosen, which were informative for genetic stock identification (GSI) and kinship analysis. The final GTSeq panel contained 500 markers, including 197 microhaplotypes and 303 SNPs. Leave‐one‐out GSI simulations indicated that GSI accuracy should be greater than 80% in most jurisdictions. The false‐positive rates of parent‐offspring and full‐sibling kinship identification were found to be low. Finally, genotypes could be consistently scored among separate sequencing runs >94% of the time. Results indicate that the GTSeq panel that we developed should perform well for multijurisdictional walleye research throughout the Great Lakes region.
Binder‐Free Electro‐Deposited MnO2 @3D Carbon Felt Network: A Positive Electrode for 2V Aqueous Supercapacitor
Authors: Prabu Vijayakumar , Geetha Kathiresan , Sekar Ramachandran , Ulaganathan Mani
Published: December 2022

Electrochemical supercapacitors have been considered the most promising energy storage system due to their attractive features, high power, energy density, and good cycle performance. This work investigates the capacitor performance of the tailor‐made electro‐deposited (ED) MnO2‐coated 3D‐carbon felt (CF) as a positive electrode. Manganese, a well‐known transition metal, has good electrochemical activity in various electrolyte conditions with broad operating potential and high specific capacity. The ED MnO2@CF delivers a maximum specific capacitance of and 231.5 Fg−1 at 10 mV s−1 in three electrode configurations. The asymmetric cell is developed using MnO2@CF as a positive electrode and the cell deliveres a maximum capacitance of 187.5 F g−1 at 0.2 A g−1 at a high‐voltage window of 2 V. The cycle life of the asymmetric capacitor is also tested up to 10 000 cycles, and the cell deliveres a round trip efficiency of 99%. To elucidate further the high‐voltage window (2 V) of the present work, an asymmetric cell configuration is fabricated using commercial MnO2 and the performance characteristics are also compared.
Chia seeds (Salvia hispanica L.): A therapeutic weapon in metabolic disorders
Authors: Khalid Waseem , Arshad Muhammad Sajid , Aziz Afifa , Rahim Muhammad Abdul , Qaisrani Tahira Batool , Afzal Fareed , Ali Anwar , Ranjha Muhammad Modassar Ali Nawaz , Khalid Muhammad Zubair , Anjum Faqir Muhammad
Published: December 2022

The growth of functional components containing agricultural foods is enhancing because these components aid the human body against different chronic diseases. Currently, chia seeds basically belong to the mint family and are edible seeds of Salvia hispanica. These seeds are composed of different functional components including fiber, polyphenols, antioxidants, omega‐3 fatty acid vitamins, minerals, and peptides. Besides, these seeds are also a good source of vegetable protein, unsaturated fat, carbohydrates, and ash. Chia seed components are helpful in cardiovascular disease (CVD) by reducing blood pressure, platelet aggregation, cholesterol, and oxidation. In GI‐tract‐related diseases like diabetes and constipation, chia fiber reduces the blood glucose level and provides bulk to stool. However, antioxidants and polyphenols are protected beta cells of the pancreas from inflammation. These components are protected from the cell damage of the different body parts, which can provide help in different types of cancer including breast, colorectal, liver, and pancreatic. Conclusively, some pervious studies approved that chia seed components are played important role in chronic diseases.
Data rescue process in the context of sea level reconstructions: An overview of the methodology, lessons learned, up‐to‐date best practices and recommendations
Authors: Latapy Alexa , Ferret Yann , Testut Laurent , Talke Stefan , Aarup Thorkild , Pons Frederic , Jan Gwenaele , Bradshaw Elizabeth , Pouvreau Nicolas
Published: December 2022

Coastal water level measurements represent one of the earliest geophysical measurements and allow an assessment of historical sea level rise and trends in tides, river flow and storm surge. However, recovery and digitization of archival tidal records have been much less widespread and systematic than, for example meteorological records. In this contribution, we discuss data rescue efforts and lessons learned in France, the United States and the United Kingdom, countries with early and extensive tide gauge networks by the mid‐19th century. We highlight the importance of (a) cataloguing the historical gauge records, as a first step towards locating them; (b) locating data in archives, and then recovering and saving data by any means necessary, including photographs and scanning; (c) obtaining metadata, including both quantitative survey records, gauge checks and clock data, but also qualitative records such as gauge notes, letters and reports; and (d) quantitative statistical analysis of data and datum quality, using both standard data‐entry checks but also tools that leverage the unique predictability of tide measurements. Methods for digitizing original analogue records are also discussed, including semi‐automatic, computer‐based methods of digitizing tidal charts (marigrams). Although the current best practice is described, future improvements are desirable and needed to make the more than estimated 10,000 station years of unused, undigitized records available to the scientific community.
Semantic context‐aware attention UNET for lung cancer segmentation and classification
Authors: Balachandran Sangeetha , Ranganathan Vidhyapriya
Published: December 2022

Lung cancer is a serious type of cancer, leading to increased mortality to death in both men and women as the symptoms are noticed only at later stages. Life span of individuals' may be extended if lung cancer is detected in its early stages. One of the imaging modalities used to diagnose lung cancer is computed tomography (CT). A nodule or mass is a small abnormal growth observed in a lung CT scan that, in most cases, may turn out to be benign. A computer‐aided system is essential to help physicians in precisely diagnosing the disease. The main objective of this work is to detect and classify the nodules in the lung CT scan images as benign or malignant. A context‐aware attention UNET architecture is proposed to segment the nodule from the lung CT scan image. Further, the segmented nodule is classified as benign or malignant using a Convolutional Neural Network architecture. The experiments are performed using the LUNA 16 and LIDC‐IDRI lung CT scan image datasets. From the results obtained, it is observed that the context‐aware attention UNET shows a noteworthy improvement in the following metrics: Dice Score, Sensitivity, Specificity, and F‐Measure. A significant improvement is obtained compared to the existing systems in detecting the lesion as a benign nodule or malignant nodule. Further, an ablation study is performed to validate the significance of each component in the architecture. The experimental results have reported 98.81% and 99.15% for specificity and sensitivity, respectively, and therefore the proposed system has potential clinical value in the detection of lung cancer.
Digitization, digitalization, and digital transformation in accounting, electronic commerce, and supply chains
Authors: O'Leary Daniel E.
Published: December 2022

This paper provides some basic definitions associated with digital transformation in organizations and applies those definitions to accounting, electronic commerce, and supply chains. I also drill down on the dimensions associated with digital transformation, including digital everywhere, integration (across applications and with customers and partners), and the need to reengineer processes. I examine several examples of processes ranging from digitization to digital transformation. I also examine the role of people in digitally transformed organizations and some technologies that are important to continued evolution of digitally transformed organizations. Further, we explore a number of scenarios of digital transformation. Finally, these investigations result in the determination of a number of emerging research issues.
Optimizing the classification of biological tissues using machine learning models based on polarized data
Authors: Rodríguez Carla , Estévez Irene , González‐Arnay Emilio , Campos Juan , Lizana Angel
Published: December 2022

Polarimetric data is nowadays used to build recognition models for the characterization of organic tissues or the early detection of some diseases. Different Mueller matrix‐derived polarimetric observables, which allow a physical interpretation of a specific characteristic of samples, are proposed in literature to feed the required recognition algorithms. However, they are obtained through mathematical transformations of the Mueller matrix and this process may loss relevant sample information in search of physical interpretation. In this work, we present a thorough comparative between 12 classification models based on different polarimetric datasets to find the ideal polarimetric framework to construct tissues classification models. The study is conducted on the experimental Mueller matrices images measured on different tissues: muscle, tendon, myotendinous junction and bone; from a collection of 165 ex‐vivo chicken thighs. Three polarimetric datasets are analyzed: (A) a selection of most representative metrics presented in literature; (B) Mueller matrix elements; and (C) the combination of (A) and (B) sets. Results highlight the importance of using raw Mueller matrix elements for the design of classification models.
The influence of dissociative adsorption on effectiveness factors of porous catalysts
Authors: Soares André Von‐Held
Published: December 2022

The actual concentration profile of a reacting fluid inside a porous catalyst is something of a mystery. However, there are powerful models to predict the concentration distribution, and effectiveness factor as a function of the Thiele modulus. This work provides a model for the porous catalyst particle considering heterogeneous kinetics for steady‐state Langmuir‐Hinshelwood rate expressions, including the cases when adsorption stoichiometry is other than 1:1, as for dissociative adsorption (1:2), which have not been covered by the preceding literature. The isothermal and the non‐isothermal particles are considered. Numerical solutions for the concentration profile of a limiting reactant were calculated by three methods: finite differences with Newton‐Raphson recursion, Chebyshev orthogonal collocation, and integration by Adams method as done by Weisz and Hicks. The Weisz‐Hicks method outperformed the other two. Plots show the results for specific cases, which are briefly discussed. Adsorption stoichiometry and pellet geometry are of paramount importance for the assessment of effectiveness factors. The results demonstrate that the effectiveness of a catalyst pellet with prevalent dissociative adsorption of a reactant is always inferior to the effectiveness with prevalent simple adsorption.
Distributed Li‐Ion Flux Enabled by Sulfonated Covalent Organic Frameworks for High‐Performance Lithium Metal Anodes
Authors: Han Diandian , Yang Xiubei , Li Kuokuo , Sun Linhai , Hou Tian , Zhang Lin , Sun Yanyun , Zhai Lipeng , Mi Liwei
Published: December 2022

Metallic Li is considered the most promising anode material for high‐energy‐density batteries owing to its high theoretical capacity and low electrochemical potential. However, inhomogeneous lithium deposition and uncontrollable growth of lithium dendrites result in low lithium utilization, rapid capacity fading, and poor cycling performance. Herein, two sulfonated covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with different sulfonated group contents are synthesized as the multifunctional interlayers in lithium metal batteries. The sulfonic acid groups in the pore channels can serve as Li‐anchoring sites that effectively coordinate Li ions. These periodically arranged subunits significantly guide uniform Li‐ion flux distribution, guarantee smooth Li deposition, and reduce lithium dendrite formation. Consequently, these characteristics afford an excellent quasi‐solid‐state electrolyte with a high ionic conductivity of 1.9 × 10−3 S  cm−1 at room temperature and a superior Li++ transference number of 0.91. A Li/LiFePO4 battery with the COF‐based electrolyte exhibited dendrite‐free Li deposition during the charge process, accompanied by no capacity decay after 100 cycles at 0.1 C.
Choosing legal rules or standards in antitrust enforcement: A proposal for extending and facilitating the use of the decision‐theoretic approach
Authors: Katsoulacos Yannis , Ulph David
Published: December 2022

The choice of legal standards (LSs) in antitrust enforcement, to guide the assessment of potentially anticompetitive conduct, in order to decide whether there is liability or not, has been hotly debated for many years. The debate has gained in intensity in recent years as a result of the concerns expressed in many countries with the antitrust treatment of the major digital platforms. This article provides a detailed presentation of a new methodology for defining LSs along the continuum of LSs, depending on the screens assessed at different stages of the continuum. This is followed by a detailed formal examination of how all the pertinent factors that could influence error minimisation interact to determine the optimal LSs for different conducts and markets. The framework can be used to examine how the choice of error minimising LSs depends on the context in which specific conduct types are undertaken.
Effect of abdominal massage on feeding intolerance in patients receiving enteral nutrition: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Jia , Chen Yahong , Xue Hui , Chen Zhiming , Wang Qiuchen , Zhu Mingyue , Yao Jiannan , Yuan Hua , Zhang Xiuying
Published: December 2022

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of abdominal massage (AM) on feeding intolerance (FI) in patients receiving enteral nutrition (EN).

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

We searched seven electronic databases to September 2021. STATA and RevMan were used to analyse the data.

Results

Eleven studies were included. The results revealed that AM could significantly reduce gastric residual volume and abdominal circumference difference, and reduce the incidence of gastric retention, vomiting, abdominal distention (allp < 0.001), diarrhoea (p = 0.02) and constipation (p = 0.002) in the experimental group. One study reported the incidence of aspiration in the control group was higher, but this was not statistically significant (p = 0.07). The meta‐regression analysis showed there was a statistically significant correlation between intervention personnel and gastric residual volume (p = 0.035).

Conclusion

AM could reduce the amount and incidence of gastric retention and the changes in abdominal circumference, and significantly reduce the incidence of gastrointestinal symptoms, without increasing the incidence of aspiration for EN patients.

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Depolymerization of poly(α‐methyl styrene) with ball‐mill grinding
Authors: Jung Eunsong , Yim Daniel , Kim Hyungjun , Peterson Gregory I. , Choi Tae‐Lim
Published: December 2022

The development of mild methods to depolymerize polymers has become increasingly important in our current Age of Plastics, and ball‐mill grinding (BMG) is emerging as a promising candidate. In this report, we demonstrate that subjecting poly(α‐methyl styrene) (PMS) to BMG leads to high extents of depolymerization (up to 64 mol% of α‐methyl styrene was produced) with minimal side products after only minutes of grinding. Constrained geometries simulate external force (CoGEF) simulations and radical trapping experiments supported that the depolymerization was initiated by mechanochemical chain scission. Depolymerization proceeded despite bulk temperatures remaining far below that of the ceiling temperature of PMS. Control experiments suggested that the extent of depolymerization was equilibrium controlled. Polystyrene and poly(methyl methacrylate) also underwent depolymerization, although to a much lesser degree (up to 4% monomer produced), presumably due to their much higher ceiling temperatures. This work provides an entry point for further development of BMG as a tool for the depolymerization of vinyl polymers under mild conditions.
Pulmonary hypertension in interstitial lung disease: Clinical trial design and endpoints: A consensus statement from the Pulmonary Vascular Research Institute's Innovative Drug Development Initiative—Group 3 Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Nathan Steven D. , Fernandes Peter , Psotka Mitchell , Vitulo Patrizio , Piccari Lucilla , Antoniou Katerina , Nikkho Sylvia M. , Stockbridge Norman
Published: December 2022

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) associated with interstitial lung disease (ILD) is an attractive target for clinical trials of PH medications. There are many factors that need to be considered to prime such studies for success. The patient phenotype most likely to respond to the intervention requires weighing the extent of the parenchymal lung disease against the severity of the hemodynamic impairment. The inclusion criteria should not be too restrictive, thus enabling recruitment. The trial should be of sufficient duration to meet the chosen endpoint which should reflect how the patient feels, functions, or survives. This paper summarizes prior studies in PH‐ILD and provides a framework of the type of studies to be considered. Inclusion criteria, clinical trial endpoints, and pharmacovigilance in the context of PH‐ILD trials are also addressed. Through lessons learnt from prior studies, suggestions and guidance for future clinical trials in PH‐ILD are also provided.
Addressing the Silent Spread of Monkeypox Disease with Advanced Analytical Tools
Authors: Bhalla Nikhil , Payam Amir Farokh
Published: December 2022

Monkeypox disease is caused by a virus which belongs to the orthopoxvirus genus of the poxviridae family. This disease has recently spread out to several non‐endemic countries. While some cases have been linked to travel from endemic regions, more recent infections are thought to have spread in the community without any travel links, raising the risks of a wider outbreak. This state of public health represents a highly unusual event which requires urgent surveillance. In this context, the opportunities and technological challenges of current bio/chemical sensors, nanomaterials, nanomaterial characterization instruments, and artificially intelligent biosystems collectively called “advanced analytical tools” are reviewed here, which will allow early detection, characterization, and inhibition of the monkeypox virus (MPXV) in the community and limit its expansion from endemic to pandemic. A summary of background information is also provided from biological and epidemiological perspective of monkeypox to support the scientific case for its holistic management using advanced analytical tools.
Oral flora of domestic cats in Hong Kong: Identification of antibiotic‐resistant strains
Authors: Cheung Ka Tik , Chan Hau Yan
Published: December 2022

Background

As the clinical outcome of bite‐associated infection is related to the oral commensals, evaluating their composition and antibiotic susceptibility pattern can provide more information for the antibiotic treatment of wound infections and increase the awareness of the multidrug‐resistant bacteria in cat oral flora.

Aims

This study was conducted to identify the various bacterial species in the oral cavity of cats. It aimed to identify the composition of cat oral flora and antibiotic resistant bacterial stains.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐two cats were sampled for bacterial evaluation. Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry was used to provide rapid and reliable detection and identification of the bacterial species. Antibiotic susceptibility tests were performed in the identified isolates to determine the antibiotic susceptibility pattern and to detect the multidrug‐resistant bacteria in the cat oral cavities.

Results

A total of 54 isolates were identified, Pasteurella was the genus most commonly isolated from the oral cavity of cats (19/54, 35.19%), followed by Neisseria spp. (8/54, 14.81%) and Staphylococcus spp. (7/54, 12.96%). Uncommon oral flora were isolated from the samples, including Pasteurella canis, Inquilinus limosus and the Enterobacteriaceae family of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Serratia marcescens. Fourteen different multidrug‐resistant bacteria were detected, including Pasteurella species (4/14), Bacillus species (2/14), Neisseria species (3/14), Escherichia species (1/14) and Staphylococcus species (4/14).

Discussion and Conclusions

This study's findings will increase the understanding of the composition of cat oral flora in Hong Kong, which can provide more evidence‐based information for the prophylactic treatment of patients with cat bite infections. Moreover, the study identified and detected the antibiotic resistance pattern and multidrug‐resistant bacteria in the cat oral cavity, which can help cat owners increase their awareness of maintaining regular oral hygiene for their cats to prevent the spread of pathogens from cats to humans.
The influence of fine‐scale topography on detection of a mammal assemblage at camera traps in a mountainous landscape
Authors: Sultaire Sean M. , Millspaugh Joshua J. , Jackson Patrick J. , Montgomery Robert A.
Published: December 2022

Changes in topography, such as terrain elevation and slope, are an important source of landscape complexity influencing the ecology of animals, particularly in mountainous landscapes. In such landscapes animals navigate changes in elevation and slope in their daily movement. Despite the importance of topographic variation, studies of animal ecology in mountainous landscapes tend not to explicitly consider those effects on species detection. We deployed a broad‐extent, coarse resolution camera‐trapping system across a landscape with considerable complexity and quantified the influence of topographic variables on detection probability conditional on occurrence for multiple mammal species. Specifically, we examined the fine‐scale effects of terrain steepness and topographic position (i.e. ridges, mid‐slopes or valleys) on detection probability for 14 mammal species at camera‐traps. We found that detection probability increased on gently sloping terrain for six species and decreased on the steepest slopes sampled for three of these species and three additional species. Among four other mammal species, detection probability changed according to local topographic position though the directionality of these responses varied among these species. Several species, primarily meso‐carnivores as well as larger‐bodied species, like mule deer and black bears, were more detectable on gentle slopes than flat terrain. This pattern suggests that many species may use moderately steep terrain for the resources or heterogeneity they provide. Topographic position had comparatively less effect on species detection probabilities, suggesting that this variable does not have a strong effect on fine‐scale space use of animal species in mountainous regions. These relationships suggest that researchers should consider local terrain when siting camera traps in mountainous landscapes and analyzing survey data from such landscapes. Studies that compare the detection of mammal species at cameras deployed in close proximity will improve our understanding of fine‐scale topographic effects on mammal movement and detection.
Efficacy of bear spray as a deterrent against polar bears
Authors: Wilder James M. , Mangipane Lindsey S. , Atwood Todd , Kochnev Anatoly , Smith Tom , Vongraven Dag
Published: December 2022

Although there have been few attempts to systematically analyze information on the use of deterrents on polar bears (Ursus maritimus), understanding their effectiveness in mitigating human‐polar bear conflicts is critical to ensuring both human safety and polar bear conservation. To fill this knowledge gap, we analyzed 19 incidents involving the use of bear spray on free‐ranging polar bears from 1986 to 2019 in Canada, Russia, and the United States to evaluate the effectiveness of bear spray as a polar bear deterrent. We found that bear spray was an effective deterrent in close‐range encounters with polar bears, stopping undesirable behavior in 18 of 19 incidents. Bear spray effectively deterred both curious and aggressive polar bears, including polar bears attempting to attack people. The mean distance between user and bear at the time of spraying was 2 m (min–max = 0.2–10.0 m, mode = 1 m), though bears were usually first seen at greater distances. Bear spray was successfully deployed against polar bears in all 4 seasons. Wind affected spray performance in 1 of 19 of incidents. In 8 of 14 bear spray incidents, other deterrents were used without success before bear spray was used effectively to deter polar bears. No humans or polar bears were killed or injured in any of the incidents in which bear spray was used. We also analyzed 54 polar bear attacks and attempted attacks on humans where bear spray was not carried. The data suggest that in 93% of those incidents, the use of bear spray might have saved the lives of both the people and bears involved if it had been available and used. Our analysis improves our understanding of the effectiveness of bear spray for polar bear conflict mitigation.
Speculative trading, prospect theory and transaction costs
Authors: Tse Alex S. L. , Zheng Harry
Published: December 2022

A speculative agent with prospect theory preference chooses the optimal time to purchase and then to sell an indivisible risky asset to maximise the expected utility of the round-trip profit net of transaction costs. The optimisation problem is formulated as a sequential optimal stopping problem, and we provide a complete characterisation of the solution. Depending on the preference and market parameters, the optimal strategy can be “buy and hold”, “buy low, sell high”, “buy high, sell higher” or “no trading”. Behavioural preference and market friction interact in a subtle way which yields surprising implications on the agent’s trading patterns. For example, increasing the market entry fee does not necessarily curb speculative trading, but instead may induce a higher reference point under which the agent becomes more risk-seeking and in turn is more likely to trade.
Solid waste recycling within higher education in developing countries: a case study of the University of Lagos
Authors: Mbama Charles A. , Otegbulu Austin , Beverland Iain , Beattie Tara K.
Published: December 2022

To create a truly circular economy requires a shift from the traditional view of waste disposal to one of resource management. This is particularly important in developing countries, where municipal waste generation is increasing, and efficient recovery of economic value from waste is rarely achieved. Conducted in the University of Lagos (UoL), Nigeria, this study investigated the efficiency of a recycling scheme with the goal of making recommendations to improve the process. UoL’s recycling policy centers around source segregation of waste into color-coded bins. Waste audit was carried out using the output method and interviews were conducted with staff from the waste management team to understand practices on campus. Substantial contamination of colored bins with non-target material was observed. Organics (30%), mixed plastics (28%) and paper (24%) were the most abundant materials, hence have the greatest potential for recovery, and income generation, if segregation rates could be improved. Despite its recycling policy and infrastructure, 99% of UoL waste was going to landfill. Poor policy implementation results in low recovery rates. Targeted waste reduction and increased material recovery would enhance efficiency. Improved awareness of recycling benefits, in addition to policy enforcement, could serve as tools to increase stakeholder participation in recycling.
Establishment and spread of the invasive ladybird Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) in Greece: based on contributions from citizen scientists
Authors: Angelidou Ιoanna , Demetriou Jakovos , Christou Maria , Koutsoukos Evangelos , Kazilas Christos , Georgiades Pantelis , Kalaentzis Konstantinos , Κontodimas Dimitris C. , Groom Quentin , Roy Helen E. , Martinou Angeliki F.
Published: December 2022

Harmonia axyridis (Pallas, 1773), also known as the harlequin ladybird, is an invasive non-native species intentionally introduced to many countries as a biological control agent of agricultural pests. In Greece, H. axyridis was first introduced as a biological control agent in 1994, with releases taking place between 1994 and 2000. For many years there was no evidence to indicate that H. axyridis had established self-sustaining populations. In 2008, a citizen science campaign was initiated aimed at raising awareness regarding the invasive status of H. axyridis to farmers and agronomists. The campaign did not yield results, and it was discontinued in 2011. During this study, the distribution, phenology, and presence of H. axyridis in different habitat types and protected areas in Greece are investigated, using both citizen science data and literature records. Records from iΝaturalist, the Alientoma database and social media examined herein demonstrate that H. axyridis has been established in Greece since 2010. Harmonia axyridis is currently present in 13 administrative districts of Greece, most of them at a considerable distance from the initial release sites. The harlequin ladybird is present in urban and agricultural habitats as well as seventeen NATURA 2000 sites. The adverse socioeconomic and environmental impacts of H. axyridis are briefly discussed alongside suggestions for management activities. Based on our findings, we propose the establishment of a national monitoring scheme for H. axyridis and native ladybirds that will also encourage public participation in recording ladybird observations and provide information on the distribution, spread and impact of this invasive non-native species.
The Growth of Quaternary Divorced Eutectic in Al–Ce–Si–Mg Alloys
Authors: Czerwinski Frank
Published: December 2022

The quaternary eutectic reaction in the Al5Ce3Si0.5Mg (wt pct) alloy, not anticipated based on existing phase diagrams and FactSage computational thermodynamic calculations, was revealed and its growth mechanism assessed, emphasizing the key role of minor additions of magnesium. The invariant transformation at 539 °C, L → α(Al) + Si + Al2MgSi/Al2Mg2Si + Al78.9Ce5.9Si12.7Mg2.6, generated an ultrafine morphology of near-spheroidal phases with 50–500 nm in diameter, located individually without the ordered arrangement, being characteristic for the non-coupled growth of divorced nature.
SystemXF: a novel approach for holistic system modeling in aircraft conceptual design
Authors: Gradel Simon , Hansmann Philipp , Stumpf Eike
Published: December 2022

In aircraft conceptual design, systems are typically represented by historical regressions without considering system architecture. For novel technologies, this is no longer possible. Alternative approaches are either hard coded solutions for special system architectures or lack the analysis capabilities necessary for conceptual aircraft design. The novel SystemXF approach intends to close this gap by providing a framework for system modeling that is not technology specific and allows for the integration of different analysis disciplines within a single model. A central XML file is used for system specification which can be edited using a SysML interface. A mass estimation and a safety analysis tool are available. An example system which is inspired by a real pitch control system is used to illustrate the method and to show the applicability. This modeling example shows that the proposed model is capable to represent and analyze realistic systems in conceptual aircraft design. The analysis tools can be used for system studies and to provide inputs for a conceptual aircraft design process.
An environmental justice perspective on ecosystem services
Authors: Loos Jacqueline , Benra Felipe , Berbés-Blázquez Marta , Bremer Leah L. , Chan Kai M. A. , Egoh Benis , Felipe-Lucia Maria , Geneletti Davide , Keeler Bonnie , Locatelli Bruno , Loft Lasse , Schröter Barbara , Schröter Matthias , Winkler Klara J.
Published: December 2022

Mainstreaming of ecosystem service approaches has been proposed as one path toward sustainable development. Meanwhile, critics of ecosystem services question if the approach can account for the multiple values of ecosystems to diverse groups of people, or for aspects of inter- and intra-generational justice. In particular, an ecosystem service approach often overlooks power dimensions and capabilities that are core to environmental justice. This article addresses the need for greater guidance on incorporating justice into ecosystem services research and practice. We point to the importance of deep engagement with stakeholders and rights holders to disentangle contextual factors that moderate justice outcomes on ecosystem service attribution and appropriation in socio-political interventions. Such a holistic perspective enables the integration of values and knowledge plurality for enhancing justice in ecosystem services research. This broadened perspective paves a way for transformative ecosystem service assessments, management, and research, which can help inform and design governance structures that nourish human agency to sustainably identify, manage, and enjoy ecosystem services for human wellbeing.
Temporal and spatial variation of the stable isotopes in the waters of Sutlej and Beas rivers
Authors: Krishan Gopal , Arya Vinay , Rao Mavidnam Someshwar
Published: December 2022

In the present study, the spatial and temporal variation of the values of stable isotopes (δ18O and δ2H) of river water and spatial variation of values of groundwater and rainfall have been evaluated. The water samples from seven stations of Sutlej river and Beas river each, fourteen stations of groundwater (deep and shallow), and twelve stations of rainfall were collected at different times from 2008 to 2015. The water samples were analysed for stable isotopes (δ18O and δ2H) and the values were expressed with units per mil (or per thousand). The box and whisker plots of values of δ18O, δ2H, and d-excess for each station of both the rivers Sutlej and Beas were plotted. The isotopic water lines have been used to identify the evaporation and precipitation sources. Kendall’s correlation coefficient has been used to know the similarity in the isotopic composition of different sources. Linear regression was performed between the δ-values of 18O, 2H, d-excess, geographic factors, and climatic factors. The results showed the water of Beas river has enriched values of stable isotopes than the Sutlej river. At each station of both rivers, the isotopic composition varied significantly with time. The regression results did not show any correlation between the δ-values and climate factors indicating the sources of water during different seasons of the year. The regression between δ-values and geographical factors was also weak. Improvement in the value of R2 has taken place when multiple linear regression was done considering latitude, longitude, and elevation as independent variables. Still, the value of R2 is not equal to 1. Multiple linear regression had also been performed considering the rainfall, temperature, and relative humidity together. The isotope characterization of water from different sources is useful for understanding various hydrological processes and the scientific management of the water resources in the study area.
The Aging of Aquarius
Authors: Nimrod Galit
Published: December 2022

There is no group of individuals more iconic of 1960s counterculture than the hippies – the long-haired, colorfully dressed youth who rebelled against mainstream societal values, preached and practiced love and peace, and generally sought more meaningful and authentic lives. These 'flower children' are now over sixty and comprise a significant part of the older population in the United States. While some hippies rejoined mainstream American society as they grew older, others still maintain the hippie ideology and lifestyle. This book is the first to explore the aging experience of older hippies by examining aspects related to identity, generativity, daily activities, spirituality, community, end-of-life care, and wellbeing. Based on 40 in-depth interviews with lifelong, returning, and past residents of The Farm, an intentional community in Tennessee that was founded in 1971 and still exists today, insights into the subculture of aging hippies and their keys to wellbeing are shared.
Understanding healthcare workers’ knowledge and attitudes regarding the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine: Overcoming gaps to improve public health response
Authors: Mo James , Maples Catherine J. , Harris Amanda , Meyer Monica P. , Chopra Teena
Published: December 2022

Vaccines serve as a major tool against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, but vaccine hesitancy remains a major concern in the United States. Healthcare workers (HCWs) strongly influence a patient’s decision to get vaccinated. We evaluated HCW knowledge and attitudes regarding the COVID-19 vaccine.
Optimizing the interpretation of Clostridioides difficile two-step diagnostic algorithm results through antimicrobial stewardship
Authors: Lowe Christopher F. , Shakeraneh Shayan , Lee Colin , Sharma Azra , Leung Victor
Published: December 2022

Over a 4-year period, the antimicrobial stewardship team reviewed all positive (PCR+/Tox+) and indeterminate (PCR+/Tox−) cases with the most responsible physician for classification of patients as infection or colonization. Among 501 indeterminate samples, 213 (43%) were considered to be clinical infection, suggesting the need for ongoing clinical assessment of indeterminates.