bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Bacillus subtilis A-5 and its fermented γ-polyglutamic acid on the rhizosphere bacterial community of Chinese cabbage
Authors: Bai Naling , Zhang Hanlin , He Yu , Zhang Juanqin , Zheng Xianqing , Zhang Haiyun , Zhang Yue , Lv Weiguang , Li Shuangxi
Published: August 2022

Chemical fertilizer reduction combined with novel and green agricultural inputs has become an important practice to improve microecological health in agricultural production. Given the close linkages between rhizosphere processes and plant nutrition and productivity, understanding how fertilization impacts this critical zone is highly important for optimizing plant–soil interactions and crop fitness for agricultural sustainability. Here, by using a pot experimental system, we demonstrated that nitrogen fertilizer reduction and microbial agent application promoted plant fitness and altered the microbial community structure in the rhizosphere soil with the following treatments: no fertilization, CK; conventional chemical fertilizer, CF; 30% reduced nitrogen fertilizer, N; 30% reduced nitrogen fertilizer with pure γ-PGA, PGA; 30% reduced nitrogen fertilizer with Bacillus subtilis A-5, A5; 30% reduced nitrogen fertilizer with γ-PGA fermentation broth, FJY. The PGA, A5, and FJY treatments all significantly promoted crop growth, and the FJY treatment showed the strongest positive effect on Chinese cabbage yield (26,385.09 kg/hm2) (P < 0.05). Microbial agents affected the α diversity of the rhizosphere bacterial community; the addition of B. subtilis A-5 (A5 and FJY treatments) significantly affected rhizospheric bacterial community structure. Urease activity and soil pH were the key factors affecting bacterial community structure and composition. The FJY treatment seemed to influence the relative abundances of important bacterial taxa related to metabolite degradation, predation, and nitrogen cycling. This discovery provides insight into the mechanism underlying the effects of microbial agent inputs on rhizosphere microbial community assembly and highlights a promising direction for the manipulation of the rhizosphere microbiome to yield beneficial outcomes.
Statins and cognition: Modifying factors and possible underlying mechanisms
Authors: Jamshidnejad-Tosaramandani Tahereh , Kashanian Soheila , Al-Sabri Mohamed H. , Kročianová Daniela , Clemensson Laura E. , Gentreau Mélissa , Schiöth Helgi B.
Published: August 2022

Statins are a class of widely prescribed drugs used to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and important to prevent cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Most statin users are older adults with CVD, who are also at high risk of cognitive decline. It has been suggested that statins can alter cognitive performance, although their positive or negative effects are still debated. With more than 200 million people on statin therapy worldwide, it is crucial to understand the reasons behind discrepancies in the results of these studies. Here, we review the effects of statins on cognitive function and their association with different etiologies of dementia, and particularly, Alzheimer’s disease (AD). First, we summarized the main individual and statin-related factors that could modify the cognitive effects of statins. Second, we proposed the underlying mechanisms for the protective and adverse effects of statins on cognitive performance. Finally, we discussed potential causes of discrepancies between studies and suggested approaches to improve future studies assessing the impact of statins on dementia risk and cognitive function.
Lutein nanodisks protect human retinal pigment epithelial cells from UV light-induced damage
Authors: Moschetti Anthony , Fox Colin A. , McGowen Samuel , Ryan Robert O.
Published: August 2022

The hydrophobic carotenoid, lutein, was conferred with aqueous solubility upon formulation into reconstituted discoidal high density lipoprotein particles, termed lutein nanodisks (ND). When formulated with phosphatidylcholine (PC), apolipoprotein (apo) A-I and lutein (formulation ratio = 5 mg PC/2 mg apoA-I/1 mg lutein), lutein solubilization efficiency in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) was ∼90%. The UV/Vis absorbance maxima for lutein ND in PBS were red shifted by 6–13 nm versus the corresponding lutein absorbance maxima in ethanol. FPLC gel filtration chromatography gave rise to a single major absorbance peak in the size range of ND. Incubation of cultured ARPE-19 cells with lutein ND resulted in lutein uptake, as determined by HPLC analysis of cell extracts. Compared to control incubations, ARPE-19 cells incubated with lutein ND were protected from UV light-induced loss of cell viability. Consistent with this, reactive oxygen species generation, induced by exposure to UV irradiation, was lower in lutein-enriched cells than in control cells. Thus, uptake of ND-associated lutein protects ARPE-19 cells from UV light-induced damage. Taken together, the data indicate ND provide an aqueous lutein delivery vehicle for biotechnological or therapeutic applications.
Characterization of volatile constituents and odorous compounds in peach (Prunus persica L) fruits of different varieties by gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and relative odor activity value
Authors: Sun Ping , Xu Bing , Wang Yi , Lin Xianrui , Chen Chenfei , Zhu Jianxi , Jia Huijuan , Wang Xinwei , Shen Jiansheng , Feng Tao
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study is to acquire information for future breeding efforts aimed at improving fruit quality via effects on aroma by comparing the diversity of Chinese local peach cultivars across 10 samples of three varieties (honey peach, yellow peach, and flat peach). The volatile components of peach fruits were analyzed and identified by gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and the main flavor components of peach fruit were determined by relative odor activity value (ROAV) and principal component analysis (PCA). A total number of 57 volatile components were detected by GC-IMS, including eight aldehydes, nine alcohols, eight ketones, 22 esters, two acids, two phenols, two pyrazines, one thiophene, one benzene, and two furans. The proportion of esters was up to 38.6%. A total of 88 volatile components were detected by GC-MS, among which 40 were key aroma compounds, with an ROAV ≥ 1. The analysis results showed that alcohols, ketones, esters, and aldehydes contributed the most to the aroma of peach fruit. PCA demonstrated that (E,E)-2, 6-non-adienal, γ-decalactone, β-ionone, and hexyl hexanoate were the key contributors to the fruit aroma. A reference for future directional cultivation and breeding could be provided by this study through evaluating the aroma quality of the peach at the cultivar level. The possible reasonable application of these peach fruits pulp will be guided through these research.
Detection of glutathione in dairy products based on surface-enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy of silver nanoparticles
Authors: Qi Wenliang , Tian Yanlong , Lu Daoli , Chen Bin
Published: August 2022

In this paper, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were prepared as enhanced substrates for the detection of glutathione in dairy products by polyol reduction of silver nitrate. The infrared spectra were collected and analyzed by surface-enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy (SEIRA) method of transmission mode using a cell of calcium fluoride window sheet immobilization solution for the study. The disappearance of the thiol (–SH) absorption peak in the infrared spectrum, and the shift of its characteristic absorption peak when glutathione was bound to AgNPs solvate indicated the Ag–S bond interaction and the aggregation of AgNPS. AgNPs accumulate to form “hot spots”, resulting in enhanced electromagnetic fields and thus enhanced infrared signals of glutathione. The intensity of the characteristic absorption peak at 1,654 cm−1 (carbonyl C=O bond stretching) was used for the quantitative analysis of glutathione. After optimizing the conditions, glutathione content in pretreated pure milk and pure ewe's milk was determined using AgNPs in combination with SEIRA. Good linearity was obtained in the range of 0.02–0.12 mg/mL with correlation coefficients (R2) of 0.9879 and 0.9833, respectively, and LOD of 0.02 mg/mL with average spiked recoveries of 101.3 and 92.5%, respectively. The results show that the method can be used for accurate determination of glutathione content in common dairy products.
Case Report: Adaptive radiotherapy in the radiation salvage of prostate cancer
Authors: Montalvo Steven K. , Meng Boyu , Lin Mu-Han , Park Chunjoo , Desai Neil B. , Hannan Raquibul , Garant Aurelie
Published: August 2022

Adaptive radiotherapy has the potential to reduce margins, improve target coverage, and decrease toxicity to organs at risk (OARs) by optimizing radiation delivery to daily anatomic changes. Salvage for locally recurrent prostate cancer after definitive radiation remains a challenging clinical scenario given the risks to normal tissue in a setting of re-irradiation. Here, we present a case series of five patients with locally recurrent prostate cancer treated with an adaptive online linear accelerator or a 3-T MR-based linear accelerator to demonstrate excellent target coverage. All patients completed the planned treatment course with acceptable acute toxicities but a short follow-up time does not inform subacute/late toxicities.
Anemia tolerance versus blood transfusion on long-term outcomes after colorectal cancer surgery: A retrospective propensity-score-matched analysis
Authors: Weng Meilin , Guo Miaomiao , Li Ting , Zhou Changming , Sun Caihong , Yue Ying , Liao Qingwu , Cai Sanjun , Lu Xihua , Zhou Di , Miao Changhong
Published: August 2022

Background

Perioperative anemia and transfusion are intertwined with each other, and both have adverse impacts on the survival of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. But the treatment of anemia still relies on transfusion in several countries, which leads us to question the effects of anemia tolerance and transfusion on the long-term outcomes of CRC patients. We investigated the combined effect of preoperative anemia and postoperative anemia and of preoperative anemia and blood transfusion, which imposes a greater risk to survival, to compare the effects of anemia tolerance and transfusion on overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) in patients undergoing CRC surgery.

Methods

A retrospective propensity-score-matched analysis included patients with CRC undergoing elective surgery between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2014. After propensity-score matching, Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to study the prognostic factors for survivals. In univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis, two novel models were built.

Results

Of the 8,121 patients with CRC, 1,975 (24.3%) and 6,146 (75.7%) patients presented with and without preoperative anemia, respectively. After matching, 1,690 patients remained in each group. In the preoperative anemia and postoperative anemia model, preoperative anemia and postoperative anemia was independent risk factor for OS (HR, 1.202; 95% CI, 1.043–1.385; P=0.011) and DFS (HR, 1.210; 95% CI, 1.050–1.395; P=0.008). In the preoperative anemia and transfusion model, preoperative anemia and transfused was the most dangerous independent prognostic factor for OS (HR, 1.791; 95% CI, 1.339–2.397; P<0.001) and DFS (HR, 1.857; 95% CI, 1.389–2.483; P<0.001). In patients with preoperative anemia, the OS and DFS of patients with transfusion were worse than those of patients without transfusion (P=0.026 in OS; P=0.037 in DFS).

Conclusions

Preoperative anemia and blood transfusion imposed a greater risk to OS and DFS in patients undergoing CRC surgery, indicating that the harm associated with blood transfusion was greater than that associated with postoperative anemia. These findings should encourage clinicians to be vigilant for the timely prevention and treatment of anemia, by appropriately promoting toleration of anemia and restricting the use of blood transfusion in patients with CRC.
Intravenous branched-chain amino-acid-free solution for the treatment of metabolic decompensation episodes in Spanish pediatric patients with maple syrup urine disease
Authors: Sánchez-Pintos Paula , Meavilla Silvia , López-Ramos María Goretti , García-Cazorla Ángeles , Couce Maria L.
Published: August 2022

Background

Metabolic decompensation episodes (DEs) in Maple Syrup urine disease (MSUD) result in brain accumulation of toxic branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and their respective branched-chain α-keto acids that could induce neuroinflammation, disturb brain bioenergetics, and alter glutamate and glutamine synthesis. These episodes require immediate intervention to prevent irreversible neurological damage. Intravenous (IV) administration of BCAA-free solution could represent a powerful alternative for emergency treatment of decompensations.

Methods

This pediatric series discusses the management of DEs in MSUD patients with IV BCAA-free solution, as an emergency treatment for DEs or as a prophylactic in cases requiring surgery. Clinical evolution, amino acid profile and adverse effects were evaluated.

Results

We evaluated the use of BCAA-free solution in 5 DEs in 5 MSUD pediatric patients, all with significantly elevated plasma leucine levels at admission (699–3296 μmol/L) and in 1 episode of risk of DE due to surgery. Leucine normalization was achieved in all cases with resolution or improvement of clinical symptoms following IV BCAA-free solution. The duration of administration ranged from 3–20 days. Administration of IV BCAA-free solution at the beginning of a DE could reverse depletion of the amino acids that compete with BCAAs for the LAT1 transporter, and the observed depletion of alanine, despite IV alanine supplementation. No related adverse events were observed.

Conclusions

Administration of standardized IV BCAA-free solution in emergency settings constitutes an important and safe alternative for the treatment of DEs in MSUD, especially in pediatric patients for whom oral or enteral treatment is not viable.
New insights into natural products that target the gut microbiota: Effects on the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer
Authors: Lu Lu , Dong Jiahuan , Liu Yujing , Qian Yufan , Zhang Guangtao , Zhou Wenjun , Zhao Aiguang , Ji Guang , Xu Hanchen
Published: August 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant carcinomas. CRC is characterized by asymptomatic onset, and most patients are already in the middle and advanced stages of disease when they are diagnosed. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and the inflammatory-cancer transformation of advanced colorectal adenoma are the main causes of CRC. There is an urgent need for effective prevention and intervention strategies for CRC. In recent years, rapid research progress has increased our understanding of gut microbiota. Meanwhile, with the deepening of research on the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer, gut microbiota has been confirmed to play a direct role in the occurrence and treatment of colorectal cancer. Strategies to regulate the gut microbiota have potential value for application in the prevention and treatment of CRC. Regulation of gut microbiota is one of the important ways for natural products to exert pharmacological effects, especially in the treatment of metabolic diseases and tumours. This review summarizes the role of gut microbiota in colorectal tumorigenesis and the mechanism by which natural products reduce tumorigenesis and improve therapeutic response. We point out that the regulation of gut microbiota by natural products may serve as a potential means of treatment and prevention of CRC.
Cold Water Immersion Improves the Recovery of Both Central and Peripheral Fatigue Following Simulated Soccer Match-Play
Authors: Bouchiba Mustapha , Bragazzi Nicola Luigi , Zarzissi Slim , Turki Mouna , Zghal Firas , Grati Mohamed Amine , Daab Wael , Ayadi Fatma , Rebai Haithem , Ibn Hadj Amor Hassen , Hureau Thomas J. , Bouzid Mohamed Amine
Published: August 2022

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of cold water immersion (CWI) on the recovery of neuromuscular fatigue following simulated soccer match-play. In a randomized design, twelve soccer players completed a 90-min simulated soccer match followed by either CWI or thermoneutral water immersion (TWI, sham condition). Before and after match (immediately after CWI/TWI through 72 h recovery), neuromuscular and performance assessments were performed. Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and twitch responses, delivered through electrical femoral nerve stimulation, were used to assess peripheral fatigue (quadriceps resting twitch force, Qtw,pot) and central fatigue (voluntary activation, VA). Performance was assessed via squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), and 20 m sprint tests. Biomarkers of muscle damages (creatine kinase, CK; Lactate dehydrogenase, LDH) were also collected. Smaller reductions in CWI than TWI were found in MVC (-9.9 ± 3%vs-23.7 ± 14.7%), VA (-3.7 ± 4.9%vs-15.4 ± 5.6%) and Qtw,pot (-15.7 ± 5.9% vs. -24.8 ± 9.5%) following post-match intervention (p < 0.05). On the other hand, smaller reductions in CWI than TWI were found only in Qtw,pot (-0.2 ± 7.7% vs. -8.8 ± 9.6%) at 72 h post-match. Afterwards, these parameters remained lower compared to baseline up to 48–72 h in TWI while they all recovered within 24 h in CWI. The 20 m sprint performance was less impaired in CWI than TWI (+11.1 ± 3.2% vs. +18 ± 3.6%, p < 0.05) while SJ and CMJ were not affected by the recovery strategy. Plasma LDH, yet no CK, were less increased during recovery in CWI compared to TWI. This study showed that CWI reduced both central and peripheral components of fatigue, which in turn led to earlier full recovery of the neuromuscular function and performance indices. Therefore, CWI might be an interesting recovery strategy for soccer players.
A preliminary mapping of QTL qsg5.1 controlling seed germination in melon (Cucumis melo L.)
Authors: Wang Ling , Li Junfeng , Yang Fen , Dai Dongyang , Li Xiang , Sheng Yunyan
Published: August 2022

Melon (Cucumis melo L.) seed germination significantly affects its economic value. Cultivation of melon varieties with high germination ability and seedling vigor is beneficial in large-scale melon propagation. In this study, two melon genotypes differing in their germination ability, P5 with low and P10 with high germination ability, were used to identify the optimal seed germination conditions by evaluating different water immersion times and germination temperatures. The germination rate of the P5 and P10 parental genotypes and their segregating population, consisting of 358 F2:3 families, were evaluated for 2 years to identify their genetic basis. QTL analysis was performed on a high-density genetic map constructed using specific-locus amplified fragment sequencing (SLAF-seq). The germination rate of F1 and F2 populations treated with water immersion for 8 h at 28°C and measured at 48 h showed a normal distribution Genetic mapping carried out using the high-density genetic map revealed eight QTLs in chromosomes 2, 4, 5, 6, and 8 that control melon seed germination, of which 2020/2021-qsg5.1 was consistently significant in both years of experimentation. qsg5.1 explained 15.13% of the phenotypic variance with a LOD of 4.1. To fine map the candidate region of qsg5.1, eight cleaved amplified polymorphism sequence (CAPS) markers were used to construct a genetic map with another 421 F2 individual fruits. The major QTL qsg5.1 was located between SNP53 and SNP54 within a 55.96 Kb interval containing four genes. qRT-PCR gene expression analysis of the candidate genes showed that MELO3C031219.2 (Phosphorus transporter PHO-5) exhibited a significant difference in gene expression between the parental lines at 24, 32, and 48 h after germination, potentially being the underlying gene controlling melon seed germination. These results provide a theoretical basis for the molecular mechanisms controlling melon seed germination and can practically contribute to further improving germination to increase the propagation efficiency of commercial melon cultivars.
Sensory stimulation program improves developments of preterm infants in Southwest China: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zheng Wenjing , Chotipanvithayakul Rassamee , Ingviya Thammasin , Xia Xiaoling , Xie Lu , Gao Jin
Published: August 2022

Preterm infants are prone to growth and developmental delay, especially social-emotional development. Sensory stimulation may benefit developmental outcomes for these vulnerable infants. This study aims to determine whether 5-integrated sensory stimulation (5-ISS) improves preterm infant social-emotional development. A randomized, parallel trial was conducted from November 2018 to January 2020 at three tertiary hospitals in Kunming, China. Preterm infants were eligible if gestational ages were from 28 to 36 weeks based on ultrasound results when discharged from neonatal wards. Two hundred preterm infants (male n = 110, female n = 90) were randomly allocated to the 5-ISS intervention group (n = 98) and the standard care group (n = 102). Social-emotional development was assessed with the Ages and Stages Questionnaires: Social-Emotional (ASQ:SE). Temperament was assessed with the Infant Behavior Questionnaire-Revised. Anthropometry, which included weight, length, and head circumference, was measured at corrected ages of 1, 3, and 6 months. Demographic and clinical characteristics were similar between the intervention and the standard care groups. At 1- and 3-month corrected age, no significant differences between the two groups were observed in terms of infant development and temperament. At 6 months, significant disparities were found in the social-emotional development scale (mean difference −0.29, 95% CI: −0.58, < -0.001, p = 0.01), infant length (mean difference 0.70, 95% CI: < 0.001, 1.4, p = 0.03), distress to limitation (p = 0.04), and sadness (p = 0.03). A mixed model revealed that the 5-ISS intervention positively affected social-emotional development, length, distress to limitation, and sadness for preterm infants. Integrated sensory stimulation has benefits on social-emotional development, temperament, and length for preterm infants. This program provides a feasible method to promote social-emotional development for preterm infants.
Burnout and Psychological Wellbeing Among Psychotherapists: A Systematic Review
Authors: Van Hoy Angelika , Rzeszutek Marcin
Published: August 2022

Objectives

The general aim of this systematic review is to synthesize, analyze, and critically review existing studies concerning the relationship between sociodemographic, intrapersonal, and work-related factors and burnout, as well as psychological wellbeing among psychotherapists.

Methodology

We performed a structured literature search utilizing the PRISMA framework in the following databases: Web of Science, Scopus, MedLine, PsyARTICLES, ProQuest, and Google Scholar. The most relevant inclusion criteria were quantitative and peer-reviewed articles published in English.

Results

After the selection process, we accepted 52 articles for further systematic review. Thirty-eight studies examined burnout among psychotherapists, while the other 14 studies focused on psychological wellbeing in this sample.

Conclusions

Burnout and wellbeing among psychotherapists are related to numerous sociodemographic (e.g., age, gender), intrapersonal (e.g., coping, personality), and work-related characteristics, including work settings and professional support in this profession (e.g., supervision or personal therapy). However, the high heterogeneity observed between studies in terms of burnout and wellbeing operationalization and measurement warrants more consistent and advanced methodological models of these theoretical constructs in the future in this specific sample.
The moderation effect of entrepreneurial resilience on the relationship between financial literacy and sustainable performance
Authors: Alshebami Ali Saleh , Murad Majid
Published: August 2022

The study intends to examine the role of financial literacy in sustainable performance of SME’s in Saudi Arabia, with the moderating effect of entrepreneurial resilience. The data for this study were gathered from 203 different SME’s sector entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia using a convenience sampling technique. The hypothesis was tested through Smart-PLS software 3.3.9 version and structural equation modeling technique was used to verify the hypothesis relationships. The findings show that financial literacy has a significant and positive impact on sustainable performance. Moreover, results indicate that entrepreneurial resilience has a significant and positive effect on sustainable performance. Furthermore, the findings show that entrepreneurial resilience moderates the relationship between financial literacy and sustainable performance in Saudi Arabia. Lastly, this research article addressed the discussion and practical implications of the study.
Mental skills in Serbian handball players: In relation to the position and gender of players
Authors: Jakšić Damjan , Trbojević Jocić Jovana , Maričić Stefan , Miçooğullari Bülent O. , Sekulić Damir , Foretić Nikola , Bianco Antonino , Drid Patrik
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Despite the potential link between mental skills and athletic performance, little is done to examine handball players’ present level of mental skills concerning their performance. To begin with, the study has three folded aims; the first one is to examine the factor structure of Bull’s Mental Skills Questionnaire, which was developed in the United Kingdom to measure selected mental skill, of Serbian athlete population. The second aim is to determine gender differences in those mental skills, and the third aim is to determine differences between the playing positions in the mental skills of handball players to create a mental profile of Serbian handball players.

Materials and methods

The sample consisted of 170 handball players, aged 14 to 39, who have played handball at the semi-elite, competitive-elite, and successful-elite level. The modified exploratory factor analysis was used to determine the latent dimensions of the Bull’s Mental Skills Questionnaire. For examining gender differences in the manifestation of mental skills Mann–Whitney U test was used.

Results

Compared to the original structure of the questionnaire, which singles out seven factors of mental skills (imagery ability, mental preparation, self-confidence, anxiety and worry management, concentration ability, relaxation ability, and motivation), five factors were singled out in the sample of Serbian male and female handball players (anxiety and concentration management—α = 0.74; self-confidence—α = 0.75; relaxation ability—α = 0.66; mental preparation—α = 0.68, and imagery ability—α = 0.66). With these five subscales as dependent variables, results of the Mann–Whitney U test show that there are significant gender differences in variable anxiety and concentration management (U = 2893.5, p = 0.049) and relaxation ability (U = 2833.0, p = 0.031). Female handball players score higher on anxiety and concentration management and lower on relaxation ability. When playing positions are in question, results of Kruskal–Wallis‘s one-way analysis of variance, i.e., Mann–Whitney’s post hoc analysis, suggest that statistically significant differences were observed between wings and center backs and wings and goalkeepers in the imagery ability.

Conclusion

The Bull’s Mental Skills Questionnaire in Serbian sample of handball players show satisfactory psychometric characteristics but has singled out five factors of mental skills compared to the original questionnaire.
Intention to use and acceptability of home-based sexual health care among men who have sex with men who previously attended clinic-based sexual health care
Authors: Goense Cornelia J. D. , Evers Ymke J. , Hoebe Christian J. P. A. , Crutzen Rik , Dukers-Muijrers Nicole H. T. M.
Published: August 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has temporarily disrupted access to clinic-based sexual health care for men who have sex with men (MSM) in the Netherlands. The importance of home-based sexual health care has been underpinned as an extension of clinic-based care. This paper aims to assess intention to use, and acceptability of home-based sexual health care among MSM who previously attended clinic-based sexual health care. In November 2020, 424 MSM who had attended an STI clinic pre-pandemic were invited to participate in an online survey; 154 MSM completed the survey (response 36%). Intention to use self-sampling STI/HIV tests was assessed (median; scale 0–100) and compared across sociodemographic and sexual behavior characteristics by Kruskal-Wallis H tests. Descriptive analyses provided insights in acceptability of home-based sexual health care. Of participants (median age 47), 60.4% (93/154) tested for STI/HIV in the past 6 months, most of them attended a clinic. The median score on intention to use self-sampling tests was 86.5 (SD = 33.4) and did not differ by sociodemographic or sexual behavioral characteristics (all p-values > 0.1). Participants were positive toward online sexual health counseling (median attitude = 75.0, SD = 29.6) and their main preferred topics were PrEP use and STI/HIV testing. MSM who attended clinic-based care expressed intention to use self-sampling tests and a positive attitude toward online sexual health counseling. Home-based sexual health care elements are not currently integrated within Dutch clinic-based sexual health care and should be considered an addition for continued provision of care and extended reach of MSM.
Factors controlling the spatial distribution of soil organic carbon in the Chinese medicine producing area of NW China1
Authors: He Mingzhu , Tang Liang , Li Chengyi , Ren Jianxin
Published: August 2022

Soil organic carbon is an important factor for the cultivation and production of traditional Chinese medicine. This study aimed to reveal the spatial distribution of the soil organic carbon density (SOCD) and the effects of the climatic and topographic factors in Longxi County (Gansu Province, China). The soil organic carbon (SOC) from 200 sampling points were collected and analyzed in 2018. Results showed that the total SOCD was 26.7 ± 10.2 Mg ha-1, while the SOCDs at a soil depth of 0–10, 10–30, and 30–50 cm were 6.3 ± 1.7, 11.0 ± 3.8, and 9.3 ± 4.8 Mg ha-1, respectively. The temperature, precipitation, elevation, and stream power index showed significant correlations with the SOCD at each soil layer. With an increasing soil depth, the correlation between the slope, relief amplitude, surface roughness, and SOCD gradually decreased. From the central plains to the mountainous areas, the SOCD increased with rising elevation, while the valley plain that formed by the river basin showed low levels of SOCD. Therefore, the scientific management of soil fertility and the development of precision agriculture, combined in a soil testing fertilization formula, will guarantee the healthy development of the Chinese herbal medicine planting.
Endografts for the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms with a hostile neck anatomy: A systematic review
Authors: Pitros Christos , Mansi Pietro , Kakkos Stavros
Published: August 2022

Background

Endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) has emerged as a better alternative to conventional open surgery for AAAs. The purpose of the review is to define the improvement in the clinical management of the patient with hostile neck AAAs due to the introduction of new endografts while giving a thorough description of their instructions for use (IFUs), main characteristics and part sizing, reporting their outcomes from clinical studies and categorizing their usability.

Methods

A MEDLINE search was conducted using keyword-specific combinations. Clinical studies were searched via the clinicaltrials.gov website. Relevant articles' references were also hand-searched.

Results

We retrieved 640 records describing Alto, Ovation iX, Treovance, Aorfix, Anaconda, Conformable, and Endurant II/IIs endografts. Aortic necks >60° can be managed with Anaconda, Aorfix, and Conformable, which can treat up to 90° necks requiring ≥15 mm (Anaconda ≥20 mm), and Treovance, which is eligible for necks ≤75° with ≥15 mm length. Ovation's innovation of combining polymer-filled O-rings with integral anchors can treat conical necked AAAs giving Ovation iX and Alto an advantage. Short-necked AAAs can be treated with Alto, eligible for necks as short as 7 mm, and Endurant II, which can treat ≥10 mm necks or 4 mm if used in conjunction with the EndoAnchors system, respectively. Alto and Conformable report a 100% technical success rate, absence of AAA-related death, migration, ruptures, and limb occlusion during follow-up. Endurant II and Ovation iX report >99% technical success rate and are almost free from the AAA mortality rate, ruptures, migration, and limb occlusion, while Ovation iX has a high rate of sac dilation (15.5%) in a 5-year follow-up. Anaconda is slightly better than Aorfix and Treovance, which are related to the lowest technical success rates, 98.3%, 96.3%, and 96%, respectively. Aorfix has the highest AAA mortality rate, 4% in a 60 month follow-up.

Conclusion

Most new generation endografts described have comparable results. They broaden the eligibility of patients for EVAR due to their unique technical characteristics described. There is a lack of comparative studies for newer endografts and postmarket clinical studies with long-term results concerning the most recently approved devices described, Alto and Conformable.
Public Engagement Practices in EC-Funded RRI Projects: Fostering Socio-Scientific Collaborations
Authors: Michali Maria , Eleftherakis George
Published: August 2022

The ‘ambiguity’ of Research and Innovation (R&I) within the present contemporary society triggers increasing manifestations of public concerns concerning science. Apart from some implications it has, this mistrust also functions as a stimuli towards integrating the public view and public (social) needs into the development and implementation of R&I policies. With reference to European communities, the European Commission (EC) has provided funding to various projects aiming to capitalise on the concept of Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) and the RRI ‘key’ of Public Engagement (PE) in order to engage the public in R&I, enhance a human-centric and inclusive R&I approach, and ultimately foster a mutually responsible relation between science and society. This study aims to examine how PE practices are implemented within the context of EC-funded projects addressing RRI-driven public engagement. Seventeen PE practices that have been implemented during the lifespan of five EC projects were qualitatively and thematically analysed. The identified themes indicate the implementation patterns of PE and contribute to reaching a set of conclusions towards realising a participatory, human-centric and inclusive R&I, fostering in its own turn future socio-scientific collaborations. Policy-makers, researchers, practitioners and stakeholders interested in public engagement in R&I can capitalise on the study’s conclusions and contribute to manifestations of responsible innovation.
A Novel Data-Driven-Based Component Map Generation Method for Transient Aero-Engine Performance Adaptation
Authors: Zhou Wenxiang , Lu Sangwei , Huang Jinquan , Pan Muxuan , Chen Zhongguang
Published: August 2022

Accurate component maps, which can significantly affect the efficiency, reliability and availability of aero-engines, play a critical role in aero-engine performance simulation. Unfortunately, the information of component maps is insufficient, leading to substantial limitations in practical application, wherein compressors are of particular interest. Here, a data-driven-based compressor map generation approach for transient aero-engine performance adaptation is investigated. A multi-layer perceptron neural network is utilized in simulating the compressor map instead of conventional interpolation schemes, and an adaptive variable learning rate backpropagation (ADVLBP) algorithm is employed to accelerate the convergence and improve the stability in the training process. Aside from that, two different adaptation strategies designed for steady state and transient conditions are implemented to adaptively retrain the compressor network according to measurement deviations until the accuracy requirements are satisfied. The proposed method is integrated into a turbofan component-level model, and simulations reveal that the ADVLBP algorithm has the capability of more rapid convergence compared with conventional training algorithms. In addition, the maximum absolute measurement deviation decreased from 6.35% to 0.44% after steady state adaptation, and excellent agreement between the predictions and benchmark data was obtained after transient adaptation. The results demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed component map generation method.
No-Till Mitigates SOC Losses after Grassland Renovation and Conversion to Silage Maize
Authors: De Los Rios Josue , Poyda Arne , Taube Friedhelm , Kluß Christof , Loges Ralf , Reinsch Thorsten
Published: August 2022

Many studies recommend no-till (NT) to increase soil organic carbon (SOC) in the topsoil (<30 cm) of arable land to counterbalance greenhouse gas emissions. Its potential use to mitigate SOC losses during conversion and renovation of grassland ecosystems in the top meter soil is yet to be determined. The SOC dynamics of a 10-year-old grassland converted to silage maize (CM) and renovated and seeded (GR) using either conventional tillage (CT) or NT were compared to an undisturbed grassland control (GC) for 7 years, across three fixed soil depth increments (0–30, 30–60, 60–90 cm). The annual C inputs (Cinput) from crop residues were further analyzed. The systems were either non-fertilized (N0) or fertilized with mineral N (N1) according to a demand of 180 and 380 kg N ha−1 year−1 in the silage maize and grassland systems, respectively. For the 7-year period, the renovated grassland using NT ensured maintenance of the initial SOC in the topsoil, while a conversion toward arable cropping resulted in SOC losses, regardless of the tillage method. The use of NT during conversion significantly reduced these losses from 2.5 Mg ha−1 year−1 to 1.8 Mg ha−1 year−1, for a 28% reduction compared to CT. In the subsoil (30–90 cm), SOC remained stable and was not affected by the cropping systems nor by the tillage method. Reduced annual Cinput was found as the main factor affecting SOC losses after grassland removal, regardless of the tillage method. Our findings highlight the potential of NT to mitigate annual SOC losses after grassland conversion if annual Cinput remains high.
Do Farming Scale and Mechanization Affect Moral Hazard in Rice Harvest Outsourcing Service in China?
Authors: Qu Xue , Kojima Daizo , Wu Laping , Ando Mitsuyoshi
Published: August 2022

The purchase of agricultural machinery outsourcing services creates a principal–agent relationship between farmers and service providers, where farmers are principals, and service providers are agents. Inconsistent goals and information asymmetry between two parties may induce moral hazard on the part of the agent. Based on survey data from 1106 rice farmers in China, this study uses Logit models to estimate the effect of agricultural machinery outsourcing services on harvesting operators’ work attitudes. The results are as follows. In general, work attitudes of outsourcing service operators are not as serious as those of farmers. After controlling for other factors, we find that purchasing harvest outsourcing services negatively affects the operators’ work attitudes. The results of the grouping estimation indicate that for large-scale farms, using combine harvesters increases the probability of agents displaying serious work attitudes. Propensity score matching analysis also proves the robustness of service providers’ less serious work attitudes. This study provides empirical evidence that moral hazard exists in agricultural machinery outsourcing services. Policies such as standardization of the outsourcing service market, scale management, and use of combine harvesters should be adopted to mitigate moral hazard.
Comparing Reference Evapotranspiration Calculated in ETo Calculator (Ukraine) Mobile App with the Estimated by Standard FAO-Based Approach
Authors: Lykhovyd Pavlo
Published: August 2022

Reference evapotranspiration (ETo) is a key agrometeorological index for rational irrigation management. The standard method for ETo estimation, proposed by the FAO, is based on a complicated Penman–Monteith equation and requires many meteorological inputs, making it difficult for practical use by farmers. At present, there are many alternative simplified approaches for ETo estimation; most of them are directed at cutting the number of required meteorological inputs for calculation. Among them, special attention should be paid to the various temperature-based methods of ETo assessment. One of the temperature-based models for ETo computation was realized in the free mobile app ETo Calculator (Ukraine). The app gives Ukrainian farmers an opportunity to assess ETo values on a daily or monthly scale using mean air temperature, obtained through free online meteorological forecasts and archive services, as the only input. The objective of the study was to test the app’s accuracy compared to FAO-based calculations in five key regions of Ukraine, each representing a particular climatic zone of the country. It was established that the app provides relatively good accuracy of ETo estimation even in raw (not adjusted to wind speed and relative air humidity) runs. The results of the statistical comparison with the FAO-calculated values on the daily scale are as follows: R2 within 0.82–0.87, RMSE within 0.74–0.81 mm, MAE within 0.60–0.70 mm, MAPE within 18.07–25.50%, depending on the region. The results of the statistical comparison with the FAO-calculated values on the monthly scale are: R2 within 0.88–0.95, RMSE within 0.50–0.72 mm, MAE within 0.33–0.59 mm, MAPE within 8.96–24.08% depending on the region. The ETo Calculator (Ukraine) is a good alternative to the complicated Penman–Monteith method and could be recommended for Ukrainian farmers to be used for irrigation management.
Anterior Mandibular Displacement in Growing Rats—A Systematic Review
Authors: Ferdianakis Efstratios , Lyros Ioannis , Tsolakis Ioannis A. , Alexiou Antigoni , Alexiou Konstantina , Tsolakis Apostolos I.
Published: August 2022

Skeletal Class II malocclusion is the most common skeletal anomaly in orthodontics. Growth in the body of the deficient mandible is induced by periosteal apposition and endochondral ossification in the condyle. Functional appliances have been used in the correction of Class II malocclusions by inducing mandibular growth. Despite their utilization though, their effect still remains controversial. The aim of the present study is to review the existing literature regarding the effects of mandibular protrusion in mandibular growth of growing rats. A protocol was followed according to the guidelines of the Cohrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews. Databases were searched using a specific algorithm. From the ten studies finally analyzed, we conclude that the use of a functional appliance in growing rats induces cell proliferation and bone formation in their condyles, resulting in mandibular growth.
Serological Investigation of Bovine Toxoplasmosis Using Commercial and Indigenous ELISA Kits While Validating Cattle Toxo IgG ELISA Kit
Authors: Sarfraz-ur-Rahman  , Akbar Haroon , Shabbir Muhammad Zubair , Ullah Ubaid , Rashid Muhammad Imran
Published: August 2022

Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that causes toxoplasmosis in warm-blooded vertebrates, globally. The main aims of this study were to assess the seropositivity to toxoplasmosis of an exotic breed of cattle (n = 400) from different farms using the Latex Agglutination Test and validate Cattle Toxo IgG ELISA kit. Of a total of 400 cattle sera that were evaluated by LAT, 143 (35.75%) were found positive. Based on these data, 90 samples (n = 60 seronegative by LAT; n = 30 seropositive by LAT) were elected for screening through a commercially available ELISA kit. The same 90 samples were screened through a Cattle Toxo IgG ELISA kit for validation purposes. Of 90 samples, 40 were seropositive in the Cattle Toxo IgG ELISA kit (100% sensitivity), and 38 were seropositive in a commercially available ELISA kit. All 50 samples in the Cattle Toxo IgG ELISA kit (96.15% specificity) were also seronegative in the commercially available ELISA kit. Hence, the sensitivity and specificity of the Cattle Toxo IgG ELISA kit came out to be 100% and 96.15%, and in LAT, it was found as 26.31% and 61.53%, respectively. Therefore, the Cattle Toxo IgG ELISA kit is a highly reliable serodiagnostic tool to diagnose bovine toxoplasmosis.
Beraprost Sodium for Pulmonary Hypertension in Dogs: Effect on Hemodynamics and Cardiac Function
Authors: Suzuki Ryohei , Yuchi Yunosuke , Saito Takahiro , Yasumura Yuyo , Teshima Takahiro , Matsumoto Hirotaka , Koyama Hidekazu
Published: August 2022

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a fatal condition that affects many dogs. In humans, PH is often treated with beraprost sodium (BPS). However, the effectiveness of BPS for canine PH has not been established. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and cardiovascular response of BPS in canine patients with PH of various causes. Sixteen dogs with PH (post-capillary PH, n = 8; pre-capillary PH, n = 8) were included. BPS was continuously administered twice daily at 15 µg/kg. All dogs underwent echocardiography, including speckle-tracking analysis and blood pressure measurement, before and after BPS administration. Continuous BPS administration (range: 13.2–22.0 µg/kg) significantly decreased the pulmonary and systemic vascular impedance and increased left and right ventricular myocardial strain. In dogs with post-capillary PH, BPS administration caused no significant worsening of the left atrial pressure indicators. No side effects of BPS were observed in any dog. BPS also improved cardiac function and pulmonary circulation through pulmonary vasodilation, suggesting that BPS may be an additional treatment option for canine PH of various causes. Particularly, BPS increased left ventricular function and systemic circulation without worsening the left heart loading condition in dogs with post-capillary PH.