bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“A New Hope” for Positive Psychology: A Dynamic Systems Reconceptualization of Hope Theory
Authors: Colla Rachel , Williams Paige , Oades Lindsay G. , Camacho-Morles Jesus
Published: February 2022

In this review of the central tenets of hope theory, we examine the meta-theoretical, theoretical, and methodological foundations of the literature base. Our analysis moves from a broad examination of the research landscape in hope theory across disciplines, to a deeper investigation of the empirical literature in university students. This review highlights the significant impact of this body of research in advancing our understanding of aspects of thriving characterized by hope. However, we also evidence several limitations that may impede the advancement of the next wave of growth in this field. To address these limitations, we argue for an interdisciplinary approach to expanding the meta-theoretical, theoretical, and methodological horizons, enabling a more dynamic systems approach to the study of hope. Drawing on the intersection of positive psychology with systems thinking, we describe a methodological approach that enables a deeper examination of the processes and interactions through which hope emerges, using an analysis of the lived experience of young people. It is proposed that this research agenda will bring to life an alternate story about the resourcefulness of our youth through their own voice, enabling us to leverage this in the design of more effective strategies to facilitate hope in the future. This research agenda provides a roadmap that will provide alternative methodologies that address the current limitations in the field of hope research and, importantly, can provide fuel to spur on the acceleration of the next wave of research and practice in the field of positive psychology more broadly.
Exploring the Impact of the Somatic Method ‘Timani’ on Performance Quality, Performance-Related Pain and Injury, and Self-Efficacy in Music Students in Norway: An Intervention Study
Authors: Détári Anna , Nilssen Tina Margareta
Published: February 2022

The importance of including performance-related body mechanics into music education to improve performance quality and prevent performance-related injuries has been stressed by many researchers recently. However, it is unclear how this information could be delivered most effectively. The somatic method ‘Timani’ provides a practical solution by combining expertise in music performance and functional body mechanics with the goal of achieving a more efficient playing technique. Since no in-depth study has been conducted to assess the method before, we explored the impact of this method on young musicians’ performance through an online, 4-week-long Timani intervention with a mixed-methodology design. 17 students (mean age = 19.17 years) were recruited from the Norwegian Academy of Music. They participated in two group workshops at the beginning and the end of the project and received four individual Timani sessions administered by certified teachers. We collected survey data at the workshops about performance-related pain and self-efficacy, and qualitative feedback after each session. In addition, all sessions were observed by the researcher and semi-structured interviews were conducted with the teachers about the perceived outcomes and their experiences with teaching the method online. Our findings show that the intervention had a positive impact on a physical, professional, and to some extent, psychological and behavioral level. The improvements included better posture when playing, enhanced control and dexterity in the upper extremities, and improved breathing mechanisms. The seven students who had performance-related pain pre-intervention reported a reduction in the discomfort. The positive results were achieved by the dual expertise of the teachers in music performance and functional body mechanics, the structure of the sessions, the communication, and the pedagogical tools used. Both students and teachers felt that administering the sessions online was satisfactory and produced good results. Timani is a promising method to establish healthy playing and singing habits thus improving performance quality and preventing performance-related problems and has great potential in reducing pre-existing injuries and pain. Also, it can be effectively taught online which has further implications for the logistics of delivery.
Environmental Attitudes, Behaviors, and Responsibility Perceptions Among Norwegian Youth: Associations With Positive Youth Development Indicators
Authors: Bøhlerengen Maria , Wiium Nora
Published: February 2022

Young people’s environmental attitudes and behaviors are essential for environmental conservation, hence the need to identify facilitating factors. Promoting positive development among young people may empower them to contribute actively to their environment through positive attitudes and behaviors. In the present study, we examine the associations between the 5Cs of Positive Youth Development (Character, Confidence, Connection, Caring, and Competence) and environmental concerns among Norwegian youth, measured through environmental attitudes, conservation behavior, and responsibility. Cross-sectional data on demographic variables, the 5Cs and environmental concerns were collected from high school students (N = 220, Mage = 17.30, SD = 1.12). For results, Character was associated with several of the environmental variables (βs = 0.28–0.58, p < 0.05), followed by Competence (βs = 0.26–0.31, p < 0.05) and Caring (βs = 0.23, p < 0.05), and finally Confidence, which showed a negative association with conservation behavior (β = −0.29, p < 0.05). There was no significant association with Connection. While these preliminary findings pave the way for future research that should involve more representative samples, the significant associations between several of the 5Cs and the environmental factors may have some implications for policy and programs on youth development and sustainable behaviors.
The Intergenerational Transmission of Mental and Physical Health in Australia: Evidence Using Data From the Household Income and Labor Dynamics of Australia Survey
Authors: Vera-Toscano Esperanza , Brown Heather
Published: February 2022

Promoting good health across the life course is high on countries agenda. There is a growing evidence base that health is correlated across generations. We examine the persistence of physical and mental health status across generations and explore how different early life factors and adult outcomes impact on this association. In particular, we focus on childhood disadvantage and childhood health, educational attainment, and social mobility measured by household income compared to one's parents. We use data from 19 waves of the Household, Income and Labor Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey. The analysis is restricted to young adults (aged 25–35 years old in 2019) and their parents. We find an intergenerational correlation in health which ranges from 0.19 for physical health to 0.20 for the QALY and 0.21 for mental health. After we include covariates related to childhood disadvantage, childhood health, educational attainment, and social mobility, the intergenerational correlations are reduced to 0.13 for physical health, 0.18 for mental health, and 0.14 for QALYs. We find that early life disadvantage is the only factor influencing the intergenerational correlation for all health measures. Policy focusing on reducing the negative impact of early life disadvantage is likely to have a larger impact on improving health across the life course and reducing intergenerational health inequalities.
Effect of Information Framing on Wearing Masks During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Interaction With Social Norms and Information Credibility
Authors: Peng Lihong , Jiang Hao , Guo Yi , Hu Dehua
Published: February 2022

Objective

The main objectives of this study were to use the effect of information framing (different expressions of the same issue, e.g., positive messages and negative messages) to explore key factors that influence the attitude of and intention of the public toward wearing masks and to understand the internal and external factors of intervention on information framing perception.

Methods

This study performed an online questionnaire survey to explore the influence of demographic characteristics, information framing, social norms, and information credibility on the attitude of the public toward masks and their intention to wear them.

Results

(1) Information framing had a significant impact on the attitudes of people toward masks and their intention to wear them, and the persuasion effect of gain-framed messages was higher than that of loss-framed messages. (2) Gender, income, occupation, educational background, and residence have no significant difference in attitude and intention to wear masks. There was a significant correlation between age and wearing of masks (p = 0.041 < 0.05). (3) Social norms affected people's perception of information framing and their attitude toward wearing masks, but only the impact of loss-framed messages on intention was significant. (4) Information framing affected people's perception of information credibility, which had a positive impact on their intention to wear masks; however, information credibility only had a significant impact on attitude toward wearing masks under the gain-framed messages and played an intermediary role.

Conclusion

The impact of information framing on the attitude of people toward masks and their intention to wear them varies. Individuals involved in the publicity of health information related to this issue should pay attention to the influence of information framing and content on the public wearing masks as a means of enhancing public health awareness.
Advance Directives: Knowledge of the Topic Among Psychiatrists
Authors: Domingues Vania Novelli , Castro Luísa , Monteiro Monica Domingues , Cordero da Silva José Antonio , Rego Francisca , Rego Guilhermina
Published: February 2022

Objective

Advance directives are becoming increasingly important as health technologies evolve. We sought to assess psychiatrists' knowledge of advance directives, as this knowledge is fundamental to the implementation and drafting of these personal documents.

Methods

A previously published questionnaire that evaluated the knowledge of medical professors was used. The sample, composed of psychiatrists from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, originated from a publicly available list. During the search process, the COVID-19 pandemic affected Brazil and the rest of the world, which influenced our methodology and results.

Results

A total of 40 psychiatrists participated in the study. The results obtained, although not significant, suggested that psychiatrists with an increased time of practice had more knowledge of advance directives. Nevertheless, less than half of the participants had knowledge about this topic.

Conclusion

The number of psychiatrists surveyed indicates the need for further studies on the subject. The influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on this study led to findings such as a change in sensitivity when addressing the topic and greater difficulty in contacting professionals.
Explore the Application Value of Prospective Monitoring Model in the Nursing Management of Breast Cancer Patients During Perioperative Period
Authors: Zhang Huan , Duan Yu , Zhou Fengming
Published: February 2022

Purpose

To explore the application value of prospective monitoring model in the nursing management of breast cancer patients during perioperative period.

Methods

300 perioperative breast cancer patients admitted to our hospital from January to August 2021 were randomly divided into the control group (n = 150) and the model group (n = 150). Both groups used routine nursing management, and the model group added nursing management based on a prospective monitoring model. The quality of surgical nursing, circumference of the upper limbs, and the scores of disability of arm-shoulder-hand (DASH), exerciseofself-care agencyscale (ESCA), social self-esteem scale (SSES), multidimensional fatigue symptom inventory-short form (MFSI-SF) and functional assessment of cancer therapy-breast cancer (FACT-B) were compared of the two groups.

Results

Postoperatively, the quality of surgical nursing was better in the model group than in the control group (P < 0.05). At 3 months postoperatively, the number of cases of upper limb lymphedema was higher in both groups than before (P < 0.05), but there was no statistical difference between the two groups in the preoperative and 3 months postoperative comparisons (P > 0.05). At 3 months postoperatively, the total DASH score was higher than preoperatively in both groups, but lower in the model group than in the control group (P < 0.05). After nursing, the ESCA and SSES scores of each dimension were higher in both groups than before, and the model group was higher than the control group (P < 0.05). At 3 months postoperatively, the total MFSI-SF score was lower than preoperatively in both groups, and lower in the model group than in the control group (P < 0.05). At 3 months postoperatively, the FACT-B scores of each dimensions were higher in the model group than in the control group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The implementation of nursing management based on a prospective monitoring model for breast cancer patients during the perioperative period has important clinical value in improving the quality of surgical nursing and improving postoperative upper limb lymphedema, upper limb function, self-care ability, social self-esteem, cancer-related fatigue symptoms, quality of life, etc.
Allele Frequency of APAF1 Mutation in Holstein Cattle in Brazil
Authors: Albertino Lukas Garrido , Albuquerque Ana Luísa Holanda , Ferreira Julia Franco , Oliveira João Pedro Marmol , Borges Alexandre Secorun , Patelli Thais Helena Constantino , Oliveira-Filho José Paes
Published: February 2022

APAF1 is an autosomal recessive inherited mutation, associated with Holstein haplotype 1 (HH1) and characterized by a substitution of cytosine for a thymine (c.1741C>T) in chromosome 5. The mutation causes fetal and embryonic loss, between 60 and 200 days of gestation, and reduced conception rate. The ARMS-PCR is considered a simple and low-cost method to determine single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) with no need for genetic sequencing of the animal genome. This study aimed to verify the allelic frequency of APAF1 mutation in Brazilian Holstein cattle. A total of 248 Holstein DNA samples (210 cows and 38 bulls) were analyzed, and synthetic genes were manufactured to validate the primers developed by the authors. All animals assessed in this study were classified as wild-type for APAF1 mutation. The primers and protocol developed for the ARMS-PCR technique work with 100% specificity and efficiency since the amplicon formations are as expected according to the genotypes. In conclusion, the mutation responsible for APAF1 was not detected in the Brazilian Holstein cattle population assessed in this prevalence study, although it is not possible to affirm that APAF1 does not occur in Brazilian Holstein animals. The tetra-primer ARMS-PCR protocol for APAF1 mutation that has been validated here may be a relatively simple and economical method to determine the animals' genotype.
Green Finance, Chemical Fertilizer Use and Carbon Emissions from Agricultural Production
Authors: Guo Lili , Zhao Shuang , Song Yuting , Tang Mengqian , Li Houjian
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to understand green finance’s impact on fertilizer use and agricultural carbon emissions. We selected the macro panel data of 30 provinces (cities) in China from 2000 to 2019. The main research methods are standardized test framework (cross-sectional dependence, unit root and cointegration test), the latest causal test, impulse response, and variance decomposition analysis. Examined the long-term equilibrium relationship between green finance, fertilizer use, and agricultural carbon emissions. The results show: fertilizer consumption and agricultural carbon emissions have a positive correlation. However, green finance can significantly reduce agricultural carbon emissions. The causal test confirmed the bidirectional causal relationship between agricultural carbon emissions and fertilizer use. At the same time, verified one-way causality from green finance to both of them. Interpret the results of impulse response and variance decomposition analysis: among the changes in agricultural carbon emissions, chemical fertilizers contributed 2.45%, green finance contributed 4.34%. In addition, the contribution rate of green finance to chemical fertilizer changes reached 11.37%. Green finance will make a huge contribution to reducing fertilizer use and agricultural carbon emissions within a decade. The research conclusions provide an important scientific basis for China’s provinces (cities) to formulate carbon emission reduction policies. China has initially formed a policy system and market environment to support the development of green finance, in 2020, the “dual carbon” goal was formally proposed. In 2021, the national “14th Five-Year Plan” and the 2035 Vision Goals emphasized the importance of green finance. It plays an important supporting role in carbon emission reduction goals, and green finance has become an important pillar of national strategic goals.
Manure Maturation with Biochar: Effects on Plant Biomass, Manure Quality and Soil Microbiological Characteristics
Authors: Hammerschmiedt Tereza , Holatko Jiri , Kucerik Jiri , Mustafa Adnan , Radziemska Maja , Kintl Antonin , Malicek Ondrej , Baltazar Tivadar , Latal Oldrich , Brtnicky Martin
Published: February 2022

Application of biochar and composts prepared from organic wastes as soil amendments has been recognized as a beneficial strategy to enhance soil fertility and crop production. However, the modification of manures with applied organic amendments such as biochar has not been well explained. Therefore, the preliminary study was designed to evaluate the impact of two doses of biochar (low 0.4 kg + 10 kg of manure and high 4 kg + 10 kg of manure) on the modification of resulting co-composted manure properties, and subsequently to evaluate the effect of matured manure amendment on the soil chemical and biological properties and plant yield in the pot experiment with barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). The following variants were tested: control, manure (M), manure + low biochar dose (M + LB), manure + high biochar dose (M + HB). Results revealed that, the M + HB significantly improved the co-composted manure properties as compared to control and M + LB, respectively. The most pronounced effects of M + HB treatment were observed on pH, NH4-N and humic acid to fulvic acid ratio (used as an index for manure maturity) relative to other treatments. Similarly, significant variations were observed between AOB (ammonium oxidizing bacteria) and nirs genes under M + HB which lowered the AOB and increased the nirs abundance as compared to other treatments. Moreover, when applied to soil, M + HB increased the observed soil chemical parameters with the exception of TN contents as compared to M and M + LB treatments. Similarly, plant biomass was significantly enhanced under the applied M + HB treatment. However, statistically insignificant differences were observed regarding soil enzyme activities and soil respiration values under the applied amendments. Thus, it was concluded that the co-composted manure with high biochar dose can have the potential to enhance the manure properties, soil fertilization value and plant biomass. However, its effects on soil microbiological and enzyme activities were intended be explored under long-term field experiments.
A Comparison of Native Grass and Triticale Pastures during Late Winter for Growing Cattle in Semiarid, Subtropical Regions
Authors: Lauriault Leonard M. , Schmitz Leah H. , Cox Shad H. , Duff Glenn C. , Scholljegerdes Eric J.
Published: February 2022

Forage-based beef production is one of the most productive agricultural systems, especially in semiarid, subtropical environments, yet it is temporally variable due to climatic factors. Dormant native perennial warm-season grasses are available for grazing from autumn through spring; however, their protein concentration is inadequate to support growing cattle. Winter cereal forages, such as triticale [×Triticosecale Wittm. ex A. Camus (Secale × Triticum)], can fill fall through spring forage gaps with sufficient protein concentration. Triticale productivity was evaluated, and beef stocker performance on triticale was compared with supplemented native grassland for late winter pasture in each of three years at New Mexico State University’s Rex E. Kirksey Agricultural Science Center in Tucumcari, NM USA. Study results indicated that triticale pasture forage mass varied over the three years due to precipitation and different triticale planting dates each year, influencing the length of grazing period. Triticale provided late winter average daily gain approximately twice that of cattle grazing dormant native grass with protein supplementation (0.70 vs. 0.36 kg hd−1 d−1, p < 0.0001). Therefore, triticale can be utilized to provide adequate growth of young calves without the added costs of supplementation.
Long-Term Sustainability Implications of Diverse Commercial Pollinator Mixtures for the Conservation Reserve Program
Authors: Ashworth Amanda J. , Adams Taylor , Jacobs Alayna
Published: February 2022

The persistence of Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) seed mixtures following planting is crucial for the long-term support of pollinator habitat; however, the role of disturbance regimes and their interactions in supporting this ecosystem service are largely unknown. This study set out to evaluate how ecological disturbances (prescribed burn, light disking, or fallow control) and commercially available diverse species mixtures (‘Hamilton’, ‘Bamert’, and ‘Holland’) affect pollinator habitat and the flowering period of commonly used CRP species mixtures. Specifically, three pollinator species mixtures were assessed for plant stand dynamics (plant density, yield, and dual-use pollinator-lignocellulosic feedstock potential); the resulting soil properties; and the total bloom count during the growing season. Following 5 years after their establishment, the proportions of flowering pollinator species varied by disturbance regime × seed mixture (p < 0.05), with the burned Hamilton and disked Holland plots having the greatest pollinator species percentages. Overall, if the long-term stability of pollinator blooms is a key consideration for management, the Hamilton mixture should be disturbed via prescribed burning, while the Holland mixture should be disked, owing to a species-specific disturbance regime preference. However, post-senescence yield and soil health properties did not vary (p > 0.05) across pollinator mixtures or disturbance regimes. Pollinator mixtures could also be harvested as a lignocellulosic feedstock without damaging pollinator habitat and providing comparable biomass for regional feedstocks; however, seeding mixtures and disturbance regimes should be considered based on desired residue usage for long-term sustainable CRP pollinator habitat.
Morphological and Biochemical Variation in Carrot Genetic Resources Grown under Open Field Conditions: The Selection of Functional Genotypes for a Breeding Program
Authors: Bhandari Shiva Ram , Rhee Juhee , Choi Chang Sun , Jo Jung Su , Shin Yu Kyeong , Song Jae Woo , Kim Seong-Hoon , Lee Jun Gu
Published: February 2022

Carrot (Daucus carota), one of the most economically important root vegetables, shows a wide range of morphological and biochemical diversity. However, there is a lack of simultaneous systematic study regarding the biochemical composition and morphological characteristics in carrot genetic resources, which is crucial for crop improvement. For this reason, the morphological characteristics, carotenoids, and free sugar content of 180 carrot genetic resources grown in open field conditions from March to June 2020 were accessed to select the lines for a potential breeding program. Altogether, 15 qualitative and 4 quantitative agronomical characteristics were evaluated and grouped into four categories based on root color (orange, yellow, white, and purple). Three carotenoids (lutein, α-carotene, and β-carotene) and three free sugars (fructose, glucose, and sucrose) were also analyzed. The results revealed wide genetic variation in both qualitative and quantitative traits. Most of the genetic resources were orange (n = 142), followed by white (n = 16), yellow (n = 14), and purple (n = 8). Carotenoid profile and content were highly dependent on root color and showed wide genetic variability, while sugar content and profile were independent of the root color. Alpha- and β- carotene were the major carotenoids in orange carrots representing 43.3 and 41.0% of total carotenoids. In contrast, lutein was most dominant in other colored carrots (79.7–98.6% of total carotenoids). In most of the genetic resources, sucrose was the most dominant free sugar, followed by glucose and fructose. The results of this study showed that some genetic resources elevated carotenoid and sugar content. The morphological and biochemical diversity observed in this study might be useful for improving the agronomic traits and biochemical content of carrot lines for breeding programs.
CgbZIP1: A bZIP Transcription Factor from Chrysanthemum Grandiflora Confers Plant Tolerance to Salinity and Drought Stress
Authors: Liu Yu , Wang Lin , Liu Chenxu , Yin Hang , Liu He , Luo Hong , He Miao , Zhou Yunwei
Published: February 2022

Abiotic stresses, such as salt and drought, significantly affect plant development and are the major limiting factors for crop quality and productivity. The manipulation of genes involved in plant stress response facilitates plant mitigation of adverse environments. In this study, we characterized CgbZIP1, a differentially expressed gene under normal and salinity conditions in Chrysanthemum grandiflora. CgbZIP1 was significantly upregulated by salt stress and also strongly responsive to drought stress and ABA treatments. Bioinformatics and subcellular localization analyses revealed that CgbZIP1 is a bZIP transcription factor and localized to the nucleus. Transgenic tobacco plants overexpressing CgbZIP1 exhibited significantly enhanced salt and drought stress tolerance associated with characteristic morphological and physiological indexes. The results demonstrate the important role CgbZIP1 plays in plant stress response and suggest its potential use in other crops for improved stress resistance.
Distinguishing Clinical Enterococcus faecium Strains and Resistance to Vancomycin Using a Simple In-House Screening Test
Authors: Saenhom Natkamon , Boueroy Parichart , Chopjitt Peechanika , Hatrongjit Rujirat , Kerdsin Anusak
Published: February 2022

Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) are a major concern as microorganisms with antimicrobial resistance and as a public health threat contributing significantly to morbidity, mortality, and socio-economic costs. Among VREs, vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VREfm) is frequently isolated and is resistant to many antibiotics used to treat patients with hospital-acquired infection. Accurate and rapid detection of VREfm results in effective antimicrobial therapy, immediate patient isolation, dissemination control, and appropriate disinfection measures. An in-house VREfm screening broth was developed and compared to the broth microdilution method and multiplex polymerase chain reaction for the detection of 105 enterococci, including 81 VRE isolates (61 E. faecium, 5 E. faecalis, 10 E. gallinarum, and 5 E. casseliflavus). Verification of this screening broth on 61 VREfm, 20 other VRE, and 24 non-VRE revealed greater validity for VREfm detection. The accuracy of this broth was 100% in distinguishing E. faecium from other enterococcal species. Our test revealed 93.3% accuracy, 97.5% sensitivity, and 79.2% specificity compared with broth microdilution and PCR detecting van genes. The kappa statistic to test interrater reliability was 0.8, revealing substantial agreement for this screening test to the broth microdilution method. In addition, the in-house VREfm screening broth produced rapid positivity after at least 8 h of incubation. Application of this assay to screen VREfm should be useful in clinical laboratories and hospital infection control units.
In Vitro Screening of a 1280 FDA-Approved Drugs Library against Multidrug-Resistant and Extensively Drug-Resistant Bacteria
Authors: Peyclit Lucie , Baron Sophie Alexandra , Hadjadj Linda , Rolain Jean-Marc
Published: February 2022

Alternative strategies against multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections are suggested to clinicians, such as drug repurposing, which uses rapidly available and marketed drugs. We gathered a collection of MDR bacteria from our hospital and performed a phenotypic high-throughput screening with a 1280 FDA-approved drug library. We used two Gram positive (Enterococcus faecium P5014 and Staphylococcus aureus P1943) and six Gram negative (Acinetobacter baumannii P1887, Klebsiella pneumoniae P9495, Pseudomonas aeruginosa P6540, Burkholderia multivorans P6539, Pandoraea nosoerga P8103, and Escherichia coli DSM105182 as the reference and control strain). The selected MDR strain panel carried resistance genes or displayed phenotypic resistance to last-line therapies such as carbapenems, vancomycin, or colistin. A total of 107 compounds from nine therapeutic classes inhibited >90% of the growth of the selected Gram negative and Gram positive bacteria at a drug concentration set at 10 µmol/L, and 7.5% were anticancer drugs. The common hit was the antiseptic chlorhexidine. The activity of niclosamide, carmofur, and auranofin was found against the selected methicillin-resistant S. aureus. Zidovudine was effective against colistin-resistant E. coli and carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae. Trifluridine, an antiviral, was effective against E. faecium. Deferoxamine mesylate inhibited the growth of XDR P. nosoerga. Drug repurposing by an in vitro screening of a drug library is a promising approach to identify effective drugs for specific bacteria.
In Vitro Efficacy of Antibiotic Combinations with Carbapenems and Other Agents against Anaerobic Bacteria
Authors: Umemura Takumi , Hagihara Mao , Mori Takeshi , Mikamo Hiroshige
Published: February 2022

We investigated the in vitro efficacy of combinations of carbapenems with clindamycin (CLDM) and minocycline (MINO) against Bacteroides fragilis and Peptostreptococcus species. We selected the carbapenems imipenem, meropenem, panipenem, doripenem, and biapenem. To evaluate the antibiotic efficacy of these combination regimens, the fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) was calculated against clinical isolates. Consequently, combination regimens of each carbapenem with CLDM or MINO showed synergistic or additive effects against 83.3–100.0% and no antagonistic effects against P. anaerobius isolates. However, against the B. fragilis group (B. fragilis, B. thetaiotaomicron, and Parabacteroides distasonis), although the combination with other carbapenems and CLDM or MINO did not show remarkable synergistic effects, the combination regimen of IPM with CLDM or MINO indicated mainly additive antibiotic efficacies (FICIs: >0.5 to ≤1.0) to B. fragilis groups. Then, antagonistic effects were admitted in only 5.6% of B. fragilis groups. The effectiveness of antibiotic combination therapy against pathogenic anaerobes has remained unclear. Then, our results can provide new insights to explore the effective combination regimens against multidrug-resistant anaerobic bacteria as empirical and definitive therapies, while this study used only carbapenem susceptible isolates. Hence, further studies are needed to use highly antibiotic-resistant anaerobic isolates to carbapenems.
The Risk of Clostridioides difficile Recurrence after Initial Treatment with Vancomycin or Fidaxomicin Utilizing Cerner Health Facts
Authors: Hall Ronald G. , Cole Travis J. , Shaw Chip , Alvarez Carlos A.
Published: February 2022

(1) Background: Fidaxomicin has been shown to significantly reduce Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) recurrences rates in randomized, controlled trials. However, national data from the Veterans Affairs has called the real-world applicability of these findings into question. Therefore, we conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients receiving fidaxomicin or vancomycin as initial therapy for an index case of CDI in the hospital to evaluate the relative rates CDI recurrence within 90 days of an index case. (2) Methods: We retrieved patients 18 years and older who were admitted between July 2011 through June 2018 and diagnosed and treated for CDI with vancomycin or fidaxomicin. The first occurrence of CDI with treatment was designated as the index case. Patients with CDI within 1 year prior to index case were excluded. From the remaining index cases (vancomycin = 14,785; fidaxomicin = 889) the primary outcome (a recurrence of CDI within 90 days of the index case) was determined. The CDI recurrence rates for fidaxomicin and vancomyicn were evaluated using a Cox Proportional Hazards model on a propensity score matched cohort. (3) Results: A statistically significantly lower risk of CDI recurrence was observed with fidaxomicin use in the matched cohort (889 patients per treatment) using a Cox Proportional Hazards model (HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.50–0.90). (4) Conclusions: Fidaxomicin was independently associated with a decreased CDI recurrence, as defined by readmission for CDI within 90 days.
Determination of the Relationships between the Chemical Structure and Antimicrobial Activity of a GAPDH-Related Fish Antimicrobial Peptide and Analogs Thereof
Authors: Cashman-Kadri Samuel , Lagüe Patrick , Fliss Ismail , Beaulieu Lucie
Published: February 2022

The structure–activity relationships and mode of action of synthesized glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH)-related antimicrobial peptides were investigated. Including the native skipjack tuna GAPDH-related peptide (SJGAP) of 32 amino acid residues (model for the study), 8 different peptide analogs were designed and synthesized to study the impact of net charge, hydrophobicity, amphipathicity, and secondary structure on both antibacterial and antifungal activities. A net positive charge increase, by the substitution of anionic residues or C-terminal amidation, improved the antimicrobial activity of the SJGAP analogs (minimal inhibitory concentrations of 16–64 μg/mL), whereas the alpha helix content, as determined by circular dichroism, did not have a very definite impact. The hydrophobicity of the peptides was also found to be important, especially for the improvement of antifungal activity. Membrane permeabilization assays showed that the active peptides induced significant cytoplasmic membrane permeabilization in the bacteria and yeast tested, but that this permeabilization did not cause leakage of 260 nm-absorbing intracellular material. This points to a mixed mode of action involving both membrane pore formation and targeting of intracellular components. This study is the first to highlight the links between the physicochemical properties, secondary structure, antimicrobial activity, and mechanism of action of antimicrobial peptides from scombrids or homologous to GAPDH.
Olanzapine-Induced Therapeutic Hypothermia Attenuates Renal Injury in Rats after Asphyxial Cardiac Arrest and Resuscitation
Authors: Tungalag Tsendsuren , Yoo Yeo-Jin , Tae Hyun-Jin , Yang Dong Kwon
Published: February 2022

Return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) through cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) after cardiac arrest (CA) causes post-cardiac arrest syndrome (PCAS) due to dysfunction in various organs, which provokes acute kidney injury because of renal ischemia-reperfusion injury. Therapeutic hypothermia (TH) can reduce PCAS after CA and ROSC. However, it needs to be more sophisticated and effective. Hence, we aimed to elucidate the protective effects of olanzapine-induced TH against renal injury in asphyxial CA-induced rats. Every rat’s body temperature was maintained at 33 °C for 6 h after administering olanzapine post-CA and ROSC. Olanzapine-induced TH dramatically increased the survival rate of the rats and ameliorated renal tissue damage. Moreover, it suppressed oxidative stress responses through preservation of mitochondrial function and endoplasmic reticulum stress as the main contributor of oxidative stress. Notably, these actions of olanzapine-induced TH were mediated through the Sirt3-related signaling pathway, including the maintenance of Sirt3 and FOXO3a protein expression and the activation of AMPKα and superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD2, a mitochondrial antioxidant). This study is the first to disclose the protective effects of olanzapine-induced TH against renal injury after CA and ROSC, suggesting that olanzapine-induced TH could be utilized for treating CA followed by ROSC.
CFD Analysis of Low-Cost Solutions to Minimize Gas and Dust Emissions during the Emergency Opening of Blast Furnace Bleeders
Authors: Boscolo Marco , Padoano Elio , Parussini Lucia , Petronelli Nicola , Dimastromatteo Vincenzo , Nazzarri Silvia
Published: February 2022

The article presents the solution adopted in an existing blast furnace with only two safety valves to minimize the dust and gas emissions to the atmosphere, in case of emergency relief due to abnormal overpressure during operating issues in the blast furnace process. Before the implementation of the system, several openings of the emergency bleeder valves were observed: These led to sensitive pollutant emissions, also in terms of acoustic and visive events, with high impact on the surrounding environment. The new relief system, in addition to the existing bleeder valves, has been engineered with a Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) analysis using Ansys Fluent to find out the most effective solution and to minimize modifications on the plant. Few plant modifications, while guaranteeing the achievement of the target of reducing the bleeder openings, allow to reduce the plant shutdown costs for the modifications themselves and the maintenance costs during plant operation and to simplify the operating logic of the blast furnace overpressure control systems. The new installation increased the safety operation of the blast furnace, and it drastically reduced the bleeder valves openings—4% of the pre-intervention total opening time per year—and the associated emissions in spite of the rise of the pig iron production, as recorded by the monitoring and supervision system.
Novel Insights into the Immunomodulatory Effects of Caryophyllane Sesquiterpenes: A Systematic Review of Preclinical Studies
Authors: Gullì Marco , Percaccio Ester , Di Giacomo Silvia , Di Sotto Antonella
Published: February 2022

Immunomodulation is a key factor in the homeostasis of organisms, both for physiological and inflammatory conditions. In this context, great attention has been devoted to immunomodulant agents, which can boost or modulate the immune system, thus favoring disease relief. The present systematic review is focused on the immunomodulatory properties of plant-based caryophyllane sesquiterpenes, which are unique natural compounds widely studied due to their multiple and pleiotropic bioactivities. Despite lacking clinical evidence, the selected studies highlighted the ability of these substances, especially β-caryophyllene and α-humulene, to modulate the immune system of both in vitro and in vivo models of disease, such as neurodegenerative and inflammatory-based diseases, cancer, and allergies; moreover, some mechanistic hypotheses have been made too. The present overview suggests a further interest in immunomodulation by caryophyllane sesquiterpenes as a possible novel strategy for immune-based diseases or as an adjuvant treatment and encourages further high-quality studies, using high-purity compounds, to better clarify the mechanisms accounting for these properties and to support a further pharmaceutical development.
Chinese Geomagnetic Reference Field 2020 by the Revised Surface Spline Method
Authors: Chen Bin , Yuan Jiehao , Ni Zhe , Wang Can
Published: February 2022

We improved the surface spline method to make the centers of the base functions fixed. This improvement makes it meaningful to analyze the time series of coefficients. Based on the revised surface spline (RSS) method and 2382 geomagnetic data measured in mainland China, we built Chinese Geomagnetic Reference Field 2020 (CGRF2020) to describe the spatial distribution of the geomagnetic field in most of China and surrounding areas. The root mean square residual is 0.1318 degrees for D, 0.0857 degrees for I, 93.70 nT for F, 73.94 nT for X, 65.02 nT for Y, and 97.82 nT for Z. The values of F, X, Y, and Z are about 20 nT less than those by the SCH method and IGRF13. We also preliminarily analyzed the correlation between geomagnetic anomalies and geological structures.
Secure Healthcare Record Sharing Mechanism with Blockchain
Authors: Butt Ghulam Qadar , Sayed Toqeer Ali , Riaz Rabia , Rizvi Sanam Shahla , Paul Anand
Published: February 2022

The transfer of information is a demanding issue, particularly due to the presence of a large number of eavesdroppers on communication channels. Sharing medical service records between different clinical jobs is a basic and testing research topic. The particular characteristics of blockchains have attracted a large amount of attention and resulted in revolutionary changes to various business applications, including medical care. A blockchain is based on a distributed ledger, which tends to improve cyber security. A number of proposals have been made with respect to the sharing of basic medical records using a blockchain without needing earlier information or the trust of patients. Specialist service providers and insurance agencies are not secure against data breaches. The safe sharing of clinical records between different countries, to ensure an incorporated and universal medical service, is also a significant issue for patients who travel. The medical data of patients normally reside on different healthcare units around the world, thus raising many concerns. Firstly, a patient’s history of treatment by different physicians is not accessible to the doctor in a single location. Secondly, it is very difficult to secure widespread data residing in different locations. This study proposed record sharing in a chain-like structure, in which every record is globally connected to the others, based on a blockchain under the suggestions and recommendations of the HL7 standards. This study focused on making medical data available, especially of patients who travel in different countries, for a specific period of time after validating the required authentication. Authorization and authentication are performed on the Shibboleth identity management system with the involvement of patient in the sanction process, thereby revealing the patient data for the specific period of time. The proposed approach improves the performance with respect to other record sharing systems, e.g., it reduces the time to read, write, delete, and revoke a record by a noticeable margin. The proposed system takes around three seconds to upload and 7.5 s to download 250 Mb of data, which can contain up to sixteen documents, over a stable network connection. The system has a latency of 413.76 ms when retrieving 100 records, compared to 447.9 and 459.3 ms in previous systems. Thus, the proposed system improved the performance and ensured seclusion by using a blockchain.
Benefits of Fuzzy Logic on MPPT and PI Controllers in the Chain of Photovoltaic Control Systems
Authors: Giurgi Gavril-Ionel , Szolga Lorant Andras , Giurgi Danut-Vasile
Published: February 2022

This paper presents a comparative study between two maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms, the incremental conductance algorithm (InC) and the fuzzy logic controller (FLC). The two algorithms were applied to a low photovoltaic power conversion system, and they both use different PI controllers and grid synchronization techniques. Moreover, both InC and FLC methods have Clarke and Park Transformation. To some extent, the incremental conductance and fuzzy logic controller approaches are similar, but their control loops are different. Therefore, the InC has classic Proportional Integrative (PI) controllers with simple phase-locked loops (PLL). At the same time, the FLC works with fuzzy logic PI controllers linked with the Second Order Generalized Integrator (SOGI). The proposed techniques examine the solar energy conversion performance of the photovoltaic (PV) system under possible irradiance changes and constant temperature conditions. Finally, a performance comparison has been made between InC and FLC, which demonstrates the effectiveness of the fuzzy controller over the incremental conductance algorithm. FLC turns to convert photovoltaic power easily, decreasing fluctuations, and it offers a quick response to the variation of solar irradiance (shading effect). The simulation results show a superior performance of the controller with fuzzy logic, which helps the inverter convert over 99% of the power generated by the photovoltaic panels. In comparison, the incremental conductance algorithm converts around 80%.
Seismological and Ground Deformation Study of the Ionian Islands (W. Greece) during 2014–2018, a Period of Intense Seismic Activity
Authors: Sakkas Vassilis , Kapetanidis Vasilis , Kaviris George , Spingos Ioannis , Mavroulis Spyridon , Diakakis Michalis , Alexopoulos John D. , Kazantzidou-Firtinidou Danai , Kassaras Ioannis , Dilalos Spyridon , Vassilakis Emmanuel , Kotsi Evelina , Tselentis Gerasimos , Lekkas Efthymis , Voulgaris Nicholas
Published: February 2022

Seismicity in the Ionian Sea (W. Greece) is mainly generated along the Cephalonia–Lefkada Transform Fault Zone (CLTFZ) in the central Ionian, and on the northwestern termination of the Hellenic subduction margin in the south. Joint pre-, co- and post-seismic ground deformation and seismological analysis is performed at the broad Ionian area, aiming to homogeneously study the spatiotemporal evolution of the activity prior to and after the occurrence of strong (M > 6) earthquakes during the period of 2014–2018. The 2014 Cephalonia earthquakes (Mw6.1 and Mw5.9) were generated on a faulting system adjacent to CLTFZ, causing local ground deformation. The post-seismic sequence is coupled in space and time with the 2015 Lefkada earthquake (Mw6.4), which occurred on the Lefkada segment of the CLTFZ. Co-seismic displacement was recorded in the broader area. Seismicity was concentrated along the CLTFZ, while its temporal evolution lasted for several months. The 2018 Zakynthos earthquake (Mw6.7) caused regional deformation and alterations on the near-velocity field, with the seismicity rate remaining above background levels until the end of 2021. In the northern Ionian, convergence between the Apulian platform and the Hellenic foreland occurs, exhibiting low seismicity. Seismic hazard assessment revealed high PGA and PGV expected values in the central Ionian.
Dilatant Nature of Sand Shear Strength
Authors: Szypcio Zenon , Dołżyk-Szypcio Katarzyna , Mierczyński Jacek
Published: February 2022

Many shear strength criteria have been proposed for soils. The Mohr–Coulomb, Matsuoka–Nakai, and Lade–Duncan criteria are more frequently used for sands. For sands sheared in drained conditions, the general stress–dilatancy relationship is obtained from the frictional state concept. It is shown that, in failure states, the dilatancy for triaxial compression, the plane strain condition (biaxial compression), triaxial extension, and general states can be expressed by the ratio of the volumetric and axial strain increments for triaxial compression. By using the frictional state concept, the shear strength of sand for general states can be expressed by the critical state angle and the dilatancy for drained triaxial compression. It is shown that the calculated shear strength of the sand is similar to that obtained by using the Mohr–Coulomb, Matsuoka–Nakai, and Lade–Duncan criteria for the non-dilative, moderate-dilative, and high-dilative behaviors of sand, respectively. Therefore, the shear strength of sand has a purely dilative nature for deformations without breakage effects.