bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vernalization of the Growing Easter Lily1
Authors: Hill Lome L. , Durkin Dominic J.
Published: September 2022

The major problem in greenhouse lily culture is the variable forcing performance of field grown bulbs. Generally, lilies will flower in approximately 120 days after bulb storage of six weeks at 33-50°F. A slower rate of growth is observed frequently enough in commercial greenhouses to suggest either that bulbs were insufficiently cooled or that some environmental condition in storage or transit had nullified part of the cold treatment.
Colchicine-Induced Tetraploid Azaleas
Authors: Pryor R. L. , Frazier L. C.
Published: September 2022

Colchicine treatment of several azalea cultivars induced polyploidy. The effect of colchiploidy varied between cultivars but there was a general increase in size and firmness of flowers. Some of the induced polyploids were complete, but many were chimeral.
Ageing, Senescence, and Abscission in Plants: Phytogerontology
Authors: Addicott Fredrick T.
Published: September 2022

Present interest in ageing, senescence and abscission stems partly from the recognition that these processes are highly suitable for investigation by modern research methods, and partly from the urgent need to control the processes in numerous horticultural and agricultural situations.
Quick Freezing to Remove Whole Corn Kernels from Immature Ears1
Authors: Maas E. F.
Published: September 2022

The use of a mechanical cutter is the usual practice (2, 3, 5) for removing kernels from ears of sweet corn at various stages of maturity to determine specific gravity, kernel weight, moisture and sugar content. On the basis of preliminary studies, Kientz et al (5) showed that the sugar content was higher when the ears were cut deep (whole kernel) than when cut shallow. Johnson and Bennett (4) expressed corn maturity in terms of a kernel development index obtained by dividing the fresh weight of kernels by the number of kernels. The reliability of this index depends upon the precision with which the depth of cut can be controlled. Accuracy can be increased by removing the entire kernels intact. To overcome variations due to cutting the kernels at different depths, methods to remove the kernels intact were investigated. A review of the literature, however, produced little relevant information. Personal correspondence also indicated that there was no generally accepted method in use by research workers. The use of a scalpel was found to be satisfactory but was too slow.
A Portable Economical Instrument for Measuring Light and Temperature Intensity-Time Integrals
Authors: Cain John C.
Published: September 2022

In horticultural research there is frequent need to consider light and temperature factors in relation to plant growth and fruiting over an extended time interval; several weeks or an entire season or more for perennial plants.
Highbush Blueberry Pollen Collection by Honeybees
Authors: Eaton G. W. , Stewart M. G.
Published: September 2022

Honeybees are considered to be important pollinators of the highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) (2). Shimanuki et al. (4) found one honeybee colony which consistently collected a larger proportion of cranberry pollen than did other colonies in the vicinity of a cranberry bog. Differences among colonies in collection of highbush blueberry pollen are reported here.
The Influence of N-dimethylamino Succinomic Acid Pretreatment on Chemically Induced Leaf Abscission of Certain Deciduous Woody Plants1
Authors: Larsen Fenton E.
Published: September 2022

The growth retarding effect of N-dimethylamino succinamic acid (Alar) on certain deciduous fruit trees in the orchard was first reported in 1964 (1). Its value for size control in the nursery where tree size is sometimes excessive was subsequently reported in 1967 (3). It was reported in 1954 (2) that certain growth regulators applied prior to the application of a nursery stock defoliant reduced the effectiveness of the defoliant.
Introduction to the Symposium
Authors: Sims William L.
Published: September 2022

During the past five years, mechanized growing and harvesting of certain fruit and vegetable crops made tremendous gains. Within the next five years several additional crops will probably be mechanized. The degree of mechanization varies with the area and with the crop. Factors such as climate, varieties, cultural practices, machine development, labor supply and whether the crop is grown for fresh market or processing, all have influenced the present status of mechanization.
Plant Analysis and Fertilizer Problems Volume IV
Authors: Bould C. , Prevot P. , Magness J. R.
Published: September 2022

This hardbacked, 430-page volume contains papers presented at the Fourth Colloquim on Plant Analysis and Fertilizer Problems held at Brussels, Belgium in September 1962 in connection with the 16th International Horticultural Congress.
Phosphorus Nutrition of Plants in Soils1
Authors: Black C. A.
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this paper is to present a theoretical account of the phosphorus nutrition of plants in soils, including some of the evidence and thinking related to it. Because these remarks are directed to the “nutrient-solution fraternity,” a comparison of nutrient solutions and soils in respect of certain aspects of phosphorus nutrition may be an appropriate introduction.
Nectar Studies of the Highbush Blueberry Vaccinium corymbosum L., cv. ‘Rubel’ and ‘Jersey’1
Authors: Brewer J. W. , Dobson R. C.
Published: September 2022

Sugar concentration in nectar from ‘Jersey’ variety blueberry blossoms was significantly higher than that from ‘Rubel’. Nectar volume was not significantly different for the 2 varieties. For both varieties sugar concentration increased as the day progressed and volume of nectar decreased. As the blossoms aged, nectar concentration and volume increased for both varieties. Paper chromatographic analysis of nectar from both varieties indicated no differences in component sugars.
Register of New Fruit and Nut Varieties List 241
Authors: Brooks Reid M. , Olmo H. P.
Published: September 2022

Blushing Golden.- - Plant pat. 2,835, Oct. 1, 1968, assigned to Stark Bros. Nurseries & Orchards Co., Louisiana, Missouri. Origin and description appeared in List 23.
Potting Depth Effects on Development and Low Temperature Survival of Naturally Cooled Easter Lilies1
Authors: Einert A. E. , Box C. O.
Published: September 2022

Naturally cooled lily plants from bulbs potted with their apices 1/2—inch deep or deeper, sustained no cold damage when exposed to temperatures as low as 23°F. Shallower bulb plantings and exposure of a portion of the bulb resulted in cold injury. The number of killed and damaged plants increased with increased bulb exposure. Planting of the bulb with its apex 1/2—inch deep or shallower reduced forcing time by four days as compared to bulbs placed on the drainage gravel at the bottom of the pots. Depths of 1/4 exposure or deeper had no effect on plant height nor any consistent effect on flower bud number.
A Technique for Soil Application of a Growth Retardant1
Authors: Holcomb Edmund Jay , White John W.
Published: September 2022

The effectiveness of applying a growth retardant gradually in the irrigation water over an extended portion of the crop cycle was investigated. Cycocel can be applied effectively in this manner and control of plant height is comparable to that produced by a single drench application.
The Effect of Pre-Harvest Applications of Ethrel on Concord Grapes1
Authors: Clore W. J. , Fay R. D.
Published: September 2022

Ethrel sprays were applied to Concord grape vines on September 4, 11, 19, and 26, 1968 in concentrations varying from 10 to 2000 ppm. At daytime temperatures averaging 69.7°F Ethrel promoted the abscission of berries in six days or less at 250 ppm and higher. Daytime temperatures of 63°F or higher prior to normal harvesting appeared necessary to activate berry abscission in six days or less. Concentrations of 250 ppm and higher induced leaf yellowing and accelerated leaf senescence. Berries removed easier when shaken off at 77°F than at 62°F. Grapes receiving a foliar application of 250 ppm of Ethrel 14 days before harvest removed easier than those receiving 500 ppm Ethrel applied six days before harvest when both were shaken off the same day. Ethrel resulted in no differences in fruit soluble solids, titratable acidity, pH and color determinations. There was no response from dipping only clusters in Ethrel. A minus 11°F on December 30 caused serious bud damage on vines sprayed on September 4 at 2000 ppm, compared to non-sprayed vines.
Storage of Bananas in Polyethylene Bags with an Ethylene Absorbent1
Authors: Liu Fu-Wen
Published: September 2022

Storage of preclimacteric bananas in sealed polyethylene showed promise. After a reasonable period of storage the bags must be opened to allow normal ripening. Endogenous ethylene was a source of potential ripening in these sealed poly bags. Hence, an ethylene absorbent was usually essential. A commercial product, ‘Purafil’ was capable of absorbing this ethylene and extending the storage life of preclimacteric fruits.
The Modern Fruit Breeder1
Authors: Bringhurst R. S.
Published: September 2022

For the most part, I direct my remarks to the role of public agency fruit breeders, since that is what most of us are. I feel justified in this role because first, I am convinced that we can provide the best possible varieties at the lowest cost and second, at times, we may be the only protection the grower has against the unscupulous.
Dimethyl Sulfoxide as an Adjuvant of Colchicine in the Treatment of Rubus Seeds and Shoot Apices1
Authors: Sanders Hosea , Hull J. W.
Published: September 2022

The addition of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) to a colchicine solution applied to germinating black raspberry seed increased the percentage of induced polyploids more than did colchicine alone. Concentrations of DMSO higher than 2% were phytotoxic to germinating seeds when combined with colchicine. DMSO had no discernible effect on penetration of colchicine to the apical dome in blackberry shoot apices. There was evidence of synergistic effect of the chemicals on phytotoxicity of apical tissue.
Vein Tracts, Not Sutures, in Cantaloupe1
Authors: Davis R. M.
Published: September 2022

The term “vein tract” is better than “suture” to denote the longitudinal indentations or unnetted strips which sometimes characterize the outward appearance of fruits of Cucumis melo L., reticulatus Naud. The term “suture” has a botanical ring in comparison to “grooves” or “stripes,” and I confess to having used it as much as anybody. Unfortunately, “suture” is here applied incorrectly; thus it is misleading to one who may be considering physiological explanations for unexplained variations in this surface feature.
Vegetable Flavor
Authors: Allen Stevens M.
Published: September 2022

The instrumentation required for objective evaluation of flavor has been available for only a decade and a half. Most information on the chemistry of flavor has accumulated within the past 5 years. There have been few studies on intercultivar variation of compounds important to flavor. Because an appreciation of the physiology of flavor and an understanding of flavor chemistry are basic to the genetics of flavor, it seems appropriate to discuss briefly these topics.
Natural and Synthetic Sweeteners1
Authors: Inglett G. E.
Published: September 2022

G. E. Inglett earned his PhD in biochemistry at the State University of Iowa in 1952. He has worked with biological toxins at the University of Illinois, 1952-1954, and in cancer research with the U. S. Public Health Service, 1954-1956. He has been a food chemist with the Corn Products Company, 1956-1960, Griffith Laboratories, 1960-1963, and International Minerals and Chemical Corporation, 1963-1966. Although Dr. Inglett is presently associated with the Cereal Properties Laboratory of the Northern Utilization Research and Development Division, Agricultural Research Service, U. S. Department of Agriculture at Peoria, Illinois, this paper is based on experience prior to joining the USDA.
New Vegetable Varieties List XVII1
Authors: Barnes W. C.
Published: September 2022

Sixteen prior lists of new vegetable varieties introduced since 1936 were published in Vols. 63, 65, 67, 69, 70, 75, 77, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, and 92 of Proceedings of the American Society for Horticultural Science, and Vol. 4 No. 1 of HortScience.
Post-Year Effects of N-Dimethylaminosuccinamic Acid on ‘Concord’ Grapes, Vitis labrusca L.12
Authors: Tukey Loren D. , Fleming Harold K.
Published: September 2022

The effects from the foliar aqueous sprays of DMAS applied between pre- and full-bloom to mature ‘Concord’ grape vines did not appear to be transmitted to the post-treatment year. The number of clusters per vine in the post-treatment year was not influenced either by the concentration or the time of application of DMAS. Yield of DMAS treated vines in the post-treatment year was highly correlated with the number of clusters per vine that year.
Dilution Technique for Calibration of Infrared Gas Analyzers for Use with Carbon Dioxide1
Authors: Tibbitts T. W. , Read M.
Published: September 2022

A simple dilution technique is described for the calibration of infrared gas analysers for use with carbon dioxide. The technique involves determining the exact volume of a closed loop system, which includes analyser, circulating pump and connecting tubing. Successive dilutions with either known volumes of nitrogen gas with no carbon dioxide or span gas with known concentrations of carbon dioxide, provide a range of calculable concentration points from which the calibration curve can be plotted.
Use of Soil Analysis in Osmocote Fertilizer Programs1
Authors: Matkin O. A.
Published: September 2022

A method of determining the reserve fertilizer content of soil containing encapsulated slow-release fertilizer was tested. The procedure involved dual analysis by extraction before and after rupturing fertilizer capsules using a cereal grinder.

Dry soil bulk density measurement permitted calculation of theoretical fertilizer concentration. Comparison of calculated versus concentrations found were very close for potassium and nitrogen. Phosphorus found by analysis was lower than theoretical.
Nutrient Removal by Papaya Fruits1
Authors: Awada M. , Suehisa R.
Published: September 2022

Nutrient analysis of harvested papaya fruits from trees grown at Waimanalo, Oahu, Hawaii and at Malama-Ki, Puna, Hawaii showed the following descending order of removal: K, N, Ca, Mg, P. Quantities of N and K removed by Malama-Ki fruits represented 38 and 56%, respectively, of the amounts applied as fertilizer.
Introduction to the Symposium
Authors: Ryder Edward J.
Published: September 2022

The papers of this symposium will effectively illustrate the 2 most serious characteristics of the relationship between pollution and horticulture: there are innumerable problems to solve and there is little knowledge available to help solve them. An obvious conclusion is that there is a need for a massive research effort in the horticultural world to attack these problems. The ad hoc Committee on Environmental Pollution was formed over a year ago to alert horticulturists to this need and to help provide ideas, motivation, and means to develop appropriate research programs.
The Effects of Horticultural Practices on Man and his Environment
Authors: Walker Kenneth C.
Published: September 2022

It is recognized that the practice of horticultural science is not necessarily synonymous with the general practice of agriculture. Webster’s New International Dictionary defines horticulture as “the cultivation of a garden or orchard, the science and art of growing fruits, vegetables, and flowers and ornamental plants; one of the main divisions of agriculture.” You may or may not agree with this definition or there may be a more accurate and up-to-date one. Nevertheless, the definition does establish certain limits or boundaries of your science. However, the impact of horticultural practices on man and his environment are not as well defined.
Air Pollution Monitoring
Authors: Hildebrandt P. W.
Published: September 2022

Air monitoring has become a complex, expensive, and difficult undertaking. Regardless of the problems involved, however, atmospheric pollutant measurement is essential to properly evaluate the air pollution cause and effect relationship.
Effects of Growth Retardants on Growth of Geranium Seedlings1 and Flowering
Authors: Semeniuk Pete , Taylor Robert
Published: September 2022

An inbred line of geranium seedlings was treated with CEPA and ABA sprays, CCC and CBBP drenches, and combinations of sprays and drenches. CEPA, CCC, and CBBP were physiologically active in altering the growth habits of geranium seedlings. ABA was relatively inactive. The earliest observable responses were dwarfing, stimulation of basal branching, and development of darker green leaves. CEPA alone or in combination with CCC or CBBP stimulated the greatest number of basal branches, but inhibited flower initiation for 70 days. Dwarfing effect was long-lasting in treatments with combinations of CEPA and CCC or CBBP. None of the growth retardant treatments had an effect on fruit development, seed germination, or seedling growth.
The Detection of Ethylene in the Internal Atmosphere of Bulbs1
Authors: Staby G. L. , De Hertogh A. A.
Published: September 2022

Ethylene was detected in the internal atmosphere of 5 bulb species. Some, if not all, of the determined ethylene concn are of physiological significance. Experiments using methyl l-(butylcarbamoyl)-2-benzimi-dazole carbamate, a protective fungicide, indicate that fungi normally associated with tulip bulbs are at least partially responsible for the gas.
Thiabendazole Control of Postharvest Apple Decay1
Authors: Blanpied G. D. , Purnasiri Apithai
Published: September 2022

2-(4-Thiazolyl) benzimidazole (thiabendazole or TBZ) applied as a postharvest treatment (1000-2000 ppm) significantly reduced decay of apples: intact (not skin punctured); skin punctured before or after TBZ treatment; mechanically harvested; waxed after TBZ treatment. TBZ was active against Penicillium expansum, Botrytis sp., but not Alternaria sp. New skin punctures were more susceptible to infection than old punctures.
Leaf Anatomy and Shoot Growth in a Compact Strain of ‘Delicious’ Apple Compared to a Normal Strain Treated with Succinic Acid 2,2-Dimethylhydrazide1
Authors: Eaton G.W. , Liu A.
Published: September 2022

Leaf anatomy and shoot growth of ‘Harrolds Red Delicious’ (‘HRD’) apple trees treated with succinic acid 2,2-dimethylhydrazide (Alar) were compared with those of an untreated compact mutant strain, ‘Starkrimson Delicious’ (‘SD’). Leaf anatomy of the untreated ‘HRD’ and ‘SD’ were not significantly different. Alar treatments of ‘HRD’ increased thickness of spongy parenchyma, palisade parenchyma, the length but not the no. of palisade cells and total leaf thickness. The site most affected by Alar was the palisade parenchyma. Alar also suppressed shoot growth rate and the treatment effect became noticeable 1 week after treatment. The shoot growth curves were quite similar for ‘SD’ and Alar-treated ‘HRD’.
Large Volume Generator of Stable Foam for Freeze Protection1
Authors: Bartholic J. F. , Heilman M. D. , Farris B. M.
Published: September 2022

A large volume generator with a foam-producing rate of 130 ft3/min is described. The generator is based on a simple principle and could be easily adapted to a variety of field foam application requirements. A combination of 3 materials has been found that will form an economical, stable, nontoxic foam for insulating crops during freezing conditions. Field tests showed that the foaming materials and foam generator have the necessary characteristics for covering large acreages of temperature-sensitive crops.
Twice-a-Year Harvesting of Asparagus1
Authors: _ _
Published: September 2022

Asparagus plantings in the Bajio area of Mexico were managed to provide 2 harvest periods, i.e., 2 vegetative periods and 1 dormant period per year. Cumulative yields for a 5-year period were substantially higher from the plots harvested twice annually than those from a conventional spring harvest schedule.
The Commercialisation of University Research Outputs: A Review of Literature
Authors: Tweheyo Gregory , Abaho Ernest , M Verma Anju
Published: September 2022

Universities are presently experiencing rapid transformation, shifting emphasis from pure teaching to equal their strength in teaching and research to increase their capacity to commercialise. The universities are not only accountable for teaching and research accomplishments but they are expected to commercialise their research outputs into marketable products and services. This paper identifies and ranks the factors that are influencing the commercialisation of university research outputs. A Systematic Review of Literature (SLR) was made on 59 articles that were published between 2000 and 2022. The findings indicate that the significant factors influencing the commercialisation of research outputs included; collaboration/networking, research funding, regulative factors both by government and university, entrepreneurial culture, availability of research infrastructure, the competence of researchers, motivation and attitude of researchers, transformational leadership culture, technology suitability for commercialisation, protection of Intellectual Property Rights, the effectiveness of Technology Transfer Office (TTO) and closeness to industry. Keywords: Commercialization, Factors, Research outputs, Systematic literature review.
Embarazo adolescente en Andes, Antioquia, 2017-2019
Authors: Vargas Gómez Verónica , Restrepo Upegui Sara , Soto Restrepo Daniela , Zea Ríos Daniela , Bareño Silva Jose
Published: September 2022

Objetivo: describir y asociar algunos factores sociales durante el embarazo adolescente en el municipio de Andes, entre los años 2017 y 2019. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional analítico de corte transversal, con 84 mujeres entre 12 a 19 años residentes del municipio de Andes, Antioquia, que habían estado en embarazo entre los años 2017 a 2019. Por medio de una encuesta realizada de manera presencial en el hospital local San Rafael, se recolectó información demográfica y de algunos los factores sociales. Se evaluó la asociación con el estado de embarazo en adolescentes utilizando la prueba Chi cuadrado y el test exacto de Fisher. Resultados: las edades más frecuentes en el embarazo adolescente fueron 17 y 19 años, la media de edad para la primera relación sexual fue 14,8 (DE: 1,7), y el número de parejas sexuales hasta la fecha fue 1,03 (DE: 1,2). El conocimiento de métodos anticonceptivos era adecuado en el 84,5% de los casos, sin embargo, solo un 36,9% utilizaba alguno. Un 66% desertó de su escuela y de estas 79,2% pertenecían a un estrato socioeconómico bajo. Se presentaron complicaciones gestacionales en un 34,5%. Se encontró asociación entre la edad de la adolescente embarazada con la edad del padre del recien nacido, con un OR=23,6, valor p <0,001 y con el estrato socioeconómico bajo con un OR= 36,7 con una p <0,001. Conclusiones: tener una pareja mayor de 18 años y pertenecer a un estrato socioeconómico bajo son dos de los factores sociales que demostraron asociación estadística, en la población de adolescentes embarazadas del municipio de Andes, Antioquia.
Reconstruction of ESA CCI soil moisture based on DCT-PLS and in situ soil moisture
Authors: Guo Xiaomeng , Fang Xiuqin , Cao Yu , Yang Lulu , Ren Liliang , Chen Yuehong , Zhang Xiaoxiang
Published: September 2022

Soil moisture (SM) is a vital variable controlling water and energy exchange between the atmosphere and land surface. Spatiotemporally continuous SM information is urgently needed for large-scale meteorological and hydrological applications. Considering the weakness of the penalized least square regression based on the discrete cosine transform (DCT-PLS) method when the missing data are not evenly distributed in the original data set, this study proposes an in situ observation-combined DCT-PLS (ODCT-PLS) to reconstruct missing values of daily surface SM from the Climate Change Initiative program of the European Space Agency (ESA CCI). The result of the reconstruction for ESA CCI SM data in the Xiliaohe River Basin from 2013 to 2020 showed that the SM reconstructed by ODCT-PLS was in better agreement with in situ soil moisture compared with that reconstructed by DCT-PLS, with the average correlation coefficient (CORR) increasing by 0.3636, the average root mean squared error (RMSE) decreasing by 0.0109 m3/m3 and the average BIAS decreasing by 0.0047 m3/m3. Compared with the original ESA CCI SM, DCT-PLS and ODCT-PLS can both restore the spatial variation of SM in the study area. The reconstruction method proposed in our study provides a valuable alternative to reconstruct the three-dimensional geophysical dataset with spatially or temporally continuous data gap.
Groundwater quality and its suitability for drinking and irrigational purpose in Bhojpur district: middle Gangetic plain of Bihar, India
Authors: Kumar Subodh , Kumar Anand , Prashant  , Jha V. N. , Sahoo Sunil Kumar , Ranjan Rajesh Kumar
Published: September 2022

A total of 138, samples have been collected in both pre and post monsoon season to understand the seasonal variability in groundwater quality and its suitability for drinking and domestic water supply. The samples were analysed for physical parameters, major ions along with fluoride and uranium. The results were integrated with GIS to represent both seasonal and spatial variations of groundwater quality parameters, drinking groundwater quality index (DGQI) and irrigation groundwater quality index (IGQI). Results show that groundwater is alkaline in nature and largely controlled by the silicate weathering, ion exchange and reverse ion exchange processes. However high nitrate concentration exceeding the WHO guideline suggests the influence of anthropogenic activities on groundwater quality. The average values of the major ions concentrations was found higher in pre monsoon season due to change in the recharge. The DGQI values of 6 samples in pre monsoon and 2 samples in post monsoon season falls under poor water quality. However, individual irrigation indices along with the combine IGQI indicate groundwater is suitable for irrigation in both the seasons. These results along with the seasonal and spatial variability map may help the decision makers in planning for better domestic and irrigation water supply.
Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) for SARS-CoV-2 – A review focussing on the significance of the sewer network using a Dublin city catchment case study
Authors: Mac Mahon Joanne , Criado Monleon Alejandro Javier , Gill Laurence W. , O'Sullivan John J. , Meijer Wim G.
Published: September 2022

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has been employed by many countries globally since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in order to assess the benefits of this surveillance tool in the context of informing public health measures. WBE has been successfully employed to detect SARS-CoV-2 at wastewater treatment plants for community-wide surveillance, as well as in smaller catchments and institutions for targeted surveillance of COVID-19. In addition, WBE has been successfully used to detect new variants, identify areas of high infection levels, as well as to detect new infection outbreaks. However, due to to the large number of inherent uncertainties in the WBE process, including the inherent intricacies of the sewer network, decay of the virus en route to a monitoring point, levels of recovery from sampling and quantification methods, levels of faecal shedding among the infected population, as well as population normalisation methods, the usefulness of wastewater samples as a means of accurately quantifying SARS-CoV-2 infection levels among a population remains less clear. The current WBE programmes in place globally will help to identify new areas of research aimed at reducing the levels of uncertainty in the WBE process, thus improving WBE as a public health monitoring tool for future pandemics. In the meantime, such programmes can provide valuable comparisons to clinical testing data and other public health metrics, as well being an effective early warning tool for new variants and new infection outbreaks. This review includes a case study of sampled wastewater from the sewer network in Dublin, Ireland, during a peak infection period of COVID-19 in the city, which evaluates the different uncertainties in the WBE process.
Presentation, diagnosis and treatment of giant cell arteritis
Authors: Šimac Daniel Victor , Keleva Dora , Novak Srđan
Published: September 2022

Objective: To present patients with giant cell arteritis (GCA) in our centre over a 10 year period in order to confirm current understanding of giant cell arteritis (GCA) and observe any possible specifities in our cohort. Patients and Methods: In this retrospective study all patients diagnosed with GCA in the Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka from 1 Jan 2011 to 31 Dec 2021 were included. Data were collected on disease presentation and diagnostic workup at the initial exam, and treatment. Results: A total of 51 patients were included in the study, of which 72.55% patients were female, and 72.55% were over 70. Of 50 patients with available data in medical documentation, 8 (16.00%) had systemic disease (S-GCA), while the rest had cranial disease (C-GCA). Headache, considered also a pathognomonic sign, was the most common initial symptom (88.00% in whole cohort, or 97.62% if S-GCA is excluded). Of 49 patients, all had increased erthyrocyte sedimentation rate. Temporal artery biopsy was positive in 12/16 patients with C-GCA, while temporal artery ultrasound was positive in 12/16 patients. Biopsy or ultrasound was not performed in 18 patients, of which 8 were patients with S-GCA, and data were not available for one patient. No patients had both a biopsy and ultrasound performed. All patients were treated with glucocorticoids, 9.80% were also treated with methotrexate, 7.84% with toclizumab, and one with both methotrexate and azathioprine. Conclusion: These results are comparable to other centres in Croatia and at least one centre abroad.
Prevalence of Antibiotic-Resistant Pathogenic Bacteria and Level of Antibiotic Residues in Hospital Effluents in Selangor, Malaysia: Protocol for a Cross-sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Bakon Sophia Karen , Mohamad Zuraifah Asrah , Jamilan Mohd Azerulazree , Hashim Hazimah , Kuman Mohamed Yazid , Shaharudin Rafiza , Ahmad Norazah , Muhamad Nor Asiah
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as a major global public health challenge due to the overuse and misuse of antibiotics for humans and animals. Hospitals are among the major users of antibiotics, thereby having a large contribution to AMR.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant pathogenic bacteria and the level of antibiotic residues in the hospital effluents in Selangor, Malaysia.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study will be performed in the state of Selangor, Malaysia. Tertiary hospitals will be identified based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The methods are divided into three phases: sample collection, microbiological analysis, and chemical analysis. Microbiological analyses will include the isolation of bacteria from hospital effluents by culturing on selective media. Antibiotic sensitivity testing will be performed on the isolated bacteria against ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, meropenem, vancomycin, colistin, and piperacillin/tazobactam. The identification of bacteria will be confirmed using 16S RNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and multiplex PCR will be performed to detect resistance genes (ermB, mecA, blaNDM-L, blaCTX-M, blaOXA-48, blaSHV, VanA, VanB, VanC1, mcr-1, mcr-2, mcr-3, Intl1, Intl2, and qnrA). Finally, the level of antibiotic residues will be measured using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

The expected outcomes will be the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter (ESKAPE) bacterial species from the hospital effluents, the occurrence of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) from the isolated ESKAPE bacteria, and the level of antibiotic residues that may be detected from the effluent. Sampling has been conducted in three hospitals. Data analysis from one hospital showed that as of July 2022, 80% (8/10) of E. faecium isolates were resistant to vancomycin and 10% (1/10) were resistant to ciprofloxacin. Further analysis will be conducted to determine if the isolates harbor any ARGs and effluent samples are being analyzed to detect antibiotic residues. Sampling activities will be resumed after being suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic and are scheduled to end by December 2022.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will provide the first baseline information to elucidate the current status of AMR of highly pathogenic bacteria present in hospital effluents in Malaysia.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/39022
Epidemiology of Traumatic Brain Injuries of Inpatients in the Fastest-Paced City in China: A retrospective study (Preprint)
Authors: Zou Junfeng , Fang Hailan , Zheng Jing , Ma Yuqiang , Wu Chuwei , Su Gaojian , Liu Xiansheng , Liu Jun , Gao Jie , Zhang Jiehua , Zhu Dongliang , Shi Xin , Huang Xianjian
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) seriously affects quality of human health and patient’s prognosis, but epidemiological characteristics of TBI may vary within population. Great changes have occurred in the epidemiological characteristics of inpatients with TBI in the fasted-paced city, Shenzhen China; however, little is known on this matter.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the changes in TBI epidemiology and help clinicians and policymakers improve medical treatment and formulate appropriate social regulations.

METHODS

In this retrospective cross-sectional analysis, we collected the following data of 4229 TBI inpatients from 20 hospitals in Shenzhen in 2017: age, sex, injury cause, severity, diagnoses, outcomes, and the time from injury to presenting at a department of neurosurgery. Data collection was performed by two neurosurgeons simultaneously. Our results were compared with those of another study performed in Shenzhen during 1994–2003 to elucidate the changes in the epidemiological characteristics of TBI.

RESULTS

Most respondents were male [2830 (66.9%)]. The mean age was 32.5 ± 21.4 years. 3,947 (93.3%) patients had a favorable outcome, 219 (5.2%) had an unfavorable outcome, and 63 (1.5%) died. The predominant external cause was falls (1,779 [42.1%]), which was the most common cause of TBI in children and older adults. Electric bicycles (423 [29.0%]) were the most vulnerable to traffic crash-related injuries. A time from injury to presenting at a department of neurosurgery greater than 50 hours had a significant effect on prognosis (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Epidemiological characteristics of TBI had changed significantly over the past twenty years, wherein falls, rather than traffic accidents, were the most common cause of TBI. Further research is needed to decrease falls incidence and improve the outcome of TBI.
Self-Regulation, Bedtime Procrastination and Sleep Quality among Adults: A Meditational Model (Preprint)
Authors: Ahmad Zafar , Safdar Tayyaba , Shahbal Sayed , Khan Amna
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

With the rapid advancements in technology, people are delaying their bedtime because the allure of readily available entertainment outweighs their self-control, as such the phenomenon of bedtime procrastination is slowly becoming of great relevance. Bedtime procrastination is a significant contributing element to sleep inadequacy that has been acknowledged as a genuine medical problem. Delayed sleep can have some very serious consequences for people, especially adults.

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to establish bedtime procrastination as a self-regulation problem which leads to poor sleep quality.

METHODS

A cross-sectional research design was adopted on a sample of 500 adults. The sample was divided into two categories: young adulthood (18-45) and middle adulthood (46-60). Data was collected employing three self-report measures: Bedtime Procrastination Scale (BPS), Brief Self-control Scale (BSCS) and Sleep Quality scale (SQS).

RESULTS

The findings suggested a significant correlation between the three variables i.e., when self-control is high, sleep quality is better with lower Bedtime Procrastination and when Bedtime Procrastination is high, sleep quality is lower, and self-control is worse. Secondarily females were found to be more likely to have slightly higher Bedtime Procrastination and much worse Sleep Quality when compared to males. Moreover, it was revealed that Bedtime procrastination partially mediated the relationship between Self-regulation and Sleep Quality.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion bedtime procrastination can be a significant variable which can lead to significant issues in sleep quality while can cause problems with self-control.
Association of uncontrolled hypertension or diabetes mellitus with major adverse cardiovascular events and mortality: a Korean population-based cohort study (Preprint)
Authors: Oh Sung-Hee , Kim Dohyang , Hwang Jinseub , Kang Jae-Heon , Kwon Yeongkeun , Kwon Jin-Won
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

Although individuals with hypertension (HT) or diabetes mellitus (DM) strive to change their lifestyle and take medications, target blood pressure and blood glucose levels may not be reached. Few studies have investigated the incidence and risk of cardiovascular disease or mortality in the uncontrolled HT or DM conditions.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to examine the association of HT or DM with incident cardiovascular disease or death.

METHODS

The Korean National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening Cohort aged 40–79 years (n = 440,249) that participated in national screening during 2002–2003 was used and was followed up to 2015. According to the HT or DM control status, incidence rates and hazard ratio (HR) for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and death were estimated. Extended Cox regression was employed using time-dependent variables such as blood pressure (BP), fasting blood glucose (FBG), medication prescription, and adherence.

RESULTS

More than 60% of patients with HT or DM taking medication did not achieve the target BP or FBG. The incidence of MACE was 10.8–15.5 and 9.6–13.3 per 1,000 person-years with increasing age in the uncontrolled DM and uncontrolled HT groups, respectively. In the uncontrolled HT & DM group, however, the incidence of MACE was high (15.2–17.5 per 1000 person-years) at a relatively early age and showed no age-related trend. The increased risk of MACE was 28% in the uncontrolled DM group (adjusted HR, 1.28; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.23–1.32), 32% in the uncontrolled HT group (1.32; 1.29–1.35), and 54% in the uncontrolled HT & DM group (1.54; 1.47–1.60).

CONCLUSIONS

Uncontrolled HT and uncontrolled DM were independent risk factors of MACE and all-cause death. An efficient system to continuously monitor BP and blood glucose is needed, particularly at an early age and in the uncontrolled group for both BP and FBG.
Remote Monitoring of Colorectal Cancer Survivors Using a Smartphone and IoT Based Device: A pilot study (Preprint)
Authors: Ayyoubzadeh Seyed Mohammad , Baniasadi Tayebeh , Shirkhoda Mohammad , R Niakan Kalhori Sharareh , Mohammadzadeh Niloofar , Roudini Kamran , Ghalehtaki Reza , Memari Fereidoon , Jalaeefar Amirmohsen
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

Surgery patients due to colorectal cancers face many postoperative problems. These problems include the risk of relapse, side effects, and long-term complications.

OBJECTIVE

This study sought to design and develop a remote monitoring system as a technological solution for post-discharge care of these patients.

METHODS

This research was conducted in three main steps: system features extraction, system design, and evaluation. After feature extraction from a systematic review, the necessary features were defined by 18 clinical experts in Iran. The architecture of the system was designed; then, the system models were drawn using the unified modeling language, and details of software system implementation were identified. To design the hardware, different modules were evaluated, and suitable modules were selected. Finally, it was evaluated through the system usability analysis after mobile-based system development.

RESULTS

Twenty-one mandatory features in five main categories were defined and validated. The software was developed by ASP.Net core backend, Microsoft SQL Server Database, and Ionic frontend for three main users, including physicians, patients, and the system manager. The most highlighted system function was Patient information registration, Periodic monitoring of health parameters, Education, Reminders, Patient evaluations. The system was implemented with up-to-date technologies using hardware design, Esp8266 as the IoT module. The temperature sensors and heart rate sensors were placed on the board. In evaluating the software system from the perspective of usability, the system received an average score of 3.8 out of 5 by four evaluators.

CONCLUSIONS

Sensor-based telemonitoring systems for cancer patients after surgery is a solution that can make the process easy, on time, and feasible both for patients and caregivers. More research about the developed system implementation in clinic settings and hospitals is required to understand the probable barriers and limitations.
How Do a Person's Bed Movements Relate to Fall Risk?: A Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Oh Sungho , Li Xian , Cho Hannah , Lee Insup , Weimer James , Demiris George
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

Patients with high fall risk tend to spend substantial time in bed due to reduced physical activity. Thus, accidental falls frequently occur during body position changes, including when a person rises from the bed to stand. This study examined the existing literature on a person’s activity while lying on the bed and accidental falls or fall risk estimation.

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a systematic review of the current literature to examine the relationship between a person’s in-bed physical activity/movements and accidental falls or fall risk estimation.

METHODS

We searched Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science for articles that mentioned in-bed movements and falls, published in English from January 2010 to June 2022. We included eligible articles for full review by a two-step screening process. The initial screening included the articles whose abstracts mentioned falls or fall risk and physical activity/movement on the bed, and then full article reviews were conducted to confirm the eligibility. Articles that did not meet these criteria were not considered in the review. During the full review, we extracted the information on the citations, research designs, participant descriptions, in-bed movements, and fall risk assessment. We also extracted the information on sensing technologies and measurement characteristics, if they were considered in the article. Finally, we synthesized the extracted information to report our findings.

RESULTS

A total of 40 studies were eligible for our review. Various methods were considered to assess fall risk, including scoring the fall risk, testing physical functions (e.g., functional ambulation profiles), a patient reporting a history of falls or describing the fear of falling, and detecting patient-related events increasing the fall risk. Examples of in-bed movements were unattended bed exit, difficulty (e.g., rocking motions) rising from the bed to sit or stand, and body position on the edge of the bed. Out of 9 interventional studies found, only three interventional studies reported an association between in-bed movements and fall risk. These studies aimed to evaluate sensor-based fall risk monitoring systems on the hospital floors and found that detecting unattended bed exits was associated with reduced fall rate, i.e., falls per patient-days, especially for those with increased fall probability.

CONCLUSIONS

The definitions of fall risk and in-bed movement varied widely across reviewed articles. Studies should report clear definitions of fall risk and in-bed movement. We found insufficient evidence of the relationships between in-bed movements and fall risk in the literature. Thus, we encourage future studies to identify and validate the types of in-bed movements specific to increased or increasing fall risks.
The effect of the first UK COVID-19 lockdown on users of the ‘Drink Less’ app: An interrupted time series analysis of socio-demographic characteristics, engagement and alcohol reduction (Preprint)
Authors: Oldham Melissa , Perski Olga , Loebenberg Gemma , Brown Jamie , Garnett Claire
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

The first UK COVID-19 lockdown had a polarising impact on drinking behaviour and may have impacted engagement with digital interventions to reduce alcohol consumption.

OBJECTIVE

We examined the effect of lockdown on engagement, alcohol reduction and the socio-demographic characteristics among users of the popular and widely available alcohol reduction app, Drink Less.

METHODS

A natural experiment. The study period spanned 468 days between 24/03/2019 and 03/07/2020, with the introduction of UK lockdown measures beginning on 24/03/2020. Users were 18+ years, based in the UK and interested in drinking less. Interrupted time series analyses using Generalised Additive Mixed Models were conducted for each outcome variable (i.e., socio-demographic characteristics, app downloads and engagement levels, alcohol consumption, and extent of alcohol reduction) for existing (downloaded the app pre-lockdown) and new (downloaded the app post-lockdown) users of the app.

RESULTS

Among existing users of the Drink Less app, there were increases in time spent on app (B=.01, P=.012), mean units of alcohol recorded per day (B>.00 P=.022) and mean heavy drinking (>6 units) days (B>.00 P=.019) post-lockdown. Previous declines in new app downloads plateaued post-lockdown (IRR=1.00, P=.182). Among new app users, there was an increase in the proportion of female users (B>.00, P=.037) and those at risk of alcohol dependence (B>.00, P=.006), and a decrease in the proportion of non-manual workers (B>-.00, P=.043). Among new app users, there were step increases in the mean number of alcohol units (B=20.12, P=.032), heavy drinking days (B=1.38, P=.010) and the number of days the app was used (B=2.05, P=.019), alongside a step decrease in the percentage of available screens viewed (B=-0.03, P=.035).

CONCLUSIONS

Following the first UK lockdown, there was evidence of increases in engagement and alcohol consumption among new and existing users of the Drink Less app.

CLINICALTRIAL

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