bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectral indicators as a tool to assess the moisture status of forest habitats
Authors: Młynarczyk Adam , Konatowska Monika , Królewicz Sławomir , Rutkowski Paweł , Piekarczyk Jan
Published: January 2022

Measurement of water content in forest habitats is considered essential in all ecological research on forests, climate change or forest management, but also in protection against floods, wildfires and soil erosion. In traditional forest habitat classification two systems of habitat conditions analysis are found: single factor or multifactor methods. Both labour-intensive and time-consuming, and therefore costly. Remote sensing methods provide a sound and low-cost alternative. The aim of the presented study was to find the relationship between the spectral indicators obtained from satellite images and the Forest Habitats Moisture Indexes used traditionally in the Polish forest habitats classification system, allowing their practical use in forest management and the protection of forest ecosystems, not only in Poland. The research area was Bory Tucholskie National Park, in which the results of habitat studies performed with the traditional approach were compared with the analysis of 191 spectral indicators calculated for Sentinel-2 image data. Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was considered to best reflect the moisture content in forest habitats, but also the trophic status, provided that spectral images from the full growing season, which in the study area cover the period from June to August, are taken into account. The results of the research also highlight the impact of water reservoirs on the humidity and trophicity of forest habitats, showing a decrease in the fertility of forest habitats with distance from the water reservoir.
Research trends in healthcare and hospital administration in Japan: Content analyses of article titles in the Journal of the Japan Society for Healthcare Administration
Authors: Moteki Yasutoshi
Published: January 2022

Background

To understand the characteristics and changes in research trends within various academic fields, research increasingly uses text mining, content analysis, or bibliometric methods. Such methods are widely used in medicine and medical policy to analyze trend changes over extended periods.
Methods

Using text-mining, this study quantitatively analyzed research trends in studies of healthcare administration in Japan, focusing on article titles over 28 years taken from the Journal of Japan Society for Healthcare Administration, known as Byon Kanri (Hospital Administration) from 1964 to 2007. Co-occurrence network and correspondence analysis were conducted to understand the changes in research interests during this period. To readily comprehend changing research trends over time in healthcare administration studies in Japan, a 10-year period division was set, resulting in three time periods. The correspondence analysis method analyzed the features and trends in research during each period.
Results

The configuration figures derived from the correspondence analysis revealed the first dimension revealed as an axis showing time transition and the second dimension as an axis showing policy/specific situations. The extracted words displayed in the configuration maps at the intersection of the two axes were the patient, survey, and evaluation. They had no distinctive features compared to the other words and were commonly used in the titles of articles in this journal, regardless of the period.
Conclusions

The text data analysis throughout the period shows the characteristics of and changes in the research trends in healthcare and hospital administration in Japan. Many points were clarified by this paper. First, the changes in the geriatric care system of public medical insurance and the related introduction of the long-term care insurance system in 2000 are also expressed in the characteristic extracted words expressed in the co-occurrence network analysis and correspondence analysis. Second, references to the role of doctors, nurses, and other health care professionals during the 14 years after the journal name change were frequent in studies, presenting extracted words such as doctors, staff, nurses, nursing, managers, roles, and relationships. The chi-square test focusing on these extracted words and the period classification confirmed a statistically significant relationship between them.
Community roots of COVID-19 infection rates between population composition and regional systems in Romania
Authors: Sandu Dumitru
Published: January 2022

This is an analysis of local and regional conditions favouring the COVID-19 infections in Romanian local communities, between February 2020 - April 2021. The general hypothesis that is tested here is that reported infections with the new coronavirus are higher in communities of higher direct social interactions with people from extra-local communities. These interactions are favoured by socio-human capital, the regional capital, migration abroad experience and modernity at the local level. Other factors are captured by the cultural areas as subregions of historical regions of the country. Nuclei of higher infections with COVID-19 are located in developed communities around large cities, high modernity areas, and communities of high emigration abroad. This is, to my knowledge, one of the first approaches to the topic at the local community level. Policy implications are specified in the conclusions.
Can Mood-Stabilizing Agents Increase the Activity of Complexes I and II of the Electron Transport Chain and the Level of Two Tricarboxylic Acid Cycle Enzymes in Euthymic Bipolar Patients during the Early and Late Stages of the Disease?
Authors: Cyrino Luiz Arthur Rangel , Lima Daniela Delwing-de , Rezin Gislaine Tezza , Ferreira Gabriela Kozuchovski , Ramos Silvia Aparecida , Magro Débora Delwing-Dal , Cavichioli Natalia , Ullmann Oliver Matheus , Mayer Yasmin , de Oliveira Mariana Pacheco , Silva Larissa Espindola da
Published: January 2022

Bipolar disorder (BD) is associated with changes in biomarkers and mood episodes, leading to neurological damage, which may reflect alterations in cognitive functions and functionality. We analyzed the effect of four biomarkers related to metabolic energy in leukocytes. Two enzymes are related to the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle (citrate synthase and succinate dehydrogenase), and two proteins are related to electron transport chain (ETC) (complexes I and II). We studied 50 euthymic patients divided into two subgroups with 25 patients (≤ 3 years and ≥ 10 years of diagnosis, from the first episode of mania) and 25 control patients. All the patients were using mood stabilizers. There were no changes in the levels of TCA cycle enzymes in the leukocytes in any subgroup. However, complex I activity showed a significant increase in patients ≤ 3 years (461.80±162.76) and ≥ 10 years (561.21±328.13) since disease onset compared to the control group (335.39±167.64) (p<0.01). Complex II activity was significantly increased in the ≥ 10 years (3.42±1.38) group compared to the ≤ 3 years (2.66±1.17) group and the control group (2.43±0.95) (p<0.01). These results suggest that stabilizing medications improve the activity of ETC complexes and stabilize TCA cycle enzymes.
Effects from oral administration of recombinant interferon-alpha on piglet daily care
Authors: Dai Fawen , Liu Yanting , Zhang Meimei , lin Tao , Chu Huashuo , Gong Ruixue , Zhao Baokai
Published: January 2022

The administration of interferon has improved the antiviral and immunomodulatory abilities of piglets, which is conductive to the prevention of potential diseases or delay the appearance of clinical symptoms. This study aimed to evaluate the effects from administration of recombinant interferon-alpha (IFN-α) on the daily care of piglets. The results were compared with compound Chinese herbal, which was proved to improve serum interferon level. Further, the administration routes were compared between oral administration and intramuscular injection. Forty (40) piglets with equal age and weight were randomly divided into four groups: Control group (Group C, without treatment), Group H (treated with compound Chinese herbal), Group K (administered orally with recombinant IFN-α, 1500 IU per day per piglet), and Group J (administered intramuscularly with IFN-α, 4× 106 IU per day per piglet). After the treatment of 15 days, both oral and intramuscular treatment of recombinant IFN-α significantly improved the secretion of IFN-gamma (IFN-γ) (P<0.05), and the effects of intramuscular pathway were faster. In addition, the expression levels of IFN-stimulated genes (MX1 and ISG15) were significantly enhanced (P<0.01), independently of IFN-α treatment time and serum IFN-γ level. Different from other studies, compound Chinese herbal showed weaker effects on interferon stimulation in piglets. The results indicated that oral administration of recombinant IFN-α improved interferon-induced response of piglets at both serum and molecular levels, which may be applied for improving autoimmunity of piglets.
Microstructural Evaluation of Thermal Stabilization of Marl Soils Considering Permeability Variations
Authors: Amiri Mohammad , Dehghani Masoud , Papi Maedeh
Published: January 2022

Heat alters the engineering behavior of soils. Marl soils are highly-erodible sedimentary deposits composed of clay minerals and calcium carbonate. Clay minerals and calcium carbonate in marl soils considerably influence the engineering behavior of such soils. Soils can be exposed to heat for a variety of reasons leading to changes in the physical, mechanical, and microstructural properties, in particular the engineering properties of marl soils. In the design of geo-environmental projects, the results of soil mechanics, especially the permeability coefficient, directly influence the design outcomes. Accordingly, this study aimed at evaluating the effect of heat treatment on the engineering behavior and permeability coefficient of marl soils from a microstructural perspective. To this end, the marl soil was heated to 25–900°C for 2 h. The changes in the engineering properties of marl soils at different temperatures were studied by macrostructural (gradation, Atterberg limits, loss-on-drying, Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) and permeability) and microstructural (XRD and SEM) investigations. The results were suggestive of the considerable effect of heat treatment on the engineering behavior of marl soils, as the compressive strength of marl soils increased by 100 folds, and the permeability coefficient reduced by about 6 times at 700°C.
Highly selective behaviour of colon adenoma after administration of EMR composition and its HCT116-based model.
Authors: Jakabčin Patrik , Kello Martin , Záň Jozef , Kolář Josef , Ulicny Jozef
Published: January 2022

When applying the improved composition of the solution used during endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), we observed unexpectedly large and quantitatively significant differences in adenoma response vs. healthy tissue of the surrounding GIT tract, namely, the selective reaction enhancing the adenoma volume and differentiated colour. The in vitro experiments on the model neoplasia cell line HCT116 suggest that the robust differences in the response of starving cells can be traced down principally to tetrastarch digestion and the enhanced metabolic rate of neoplastic cells. The neoplastic tissue grows into several intestine layers so that submucosal injection of iso-oncotic tetrastarch compound leads to degradation of starch and production of oncotic molecules in submucosa transported by facilitated transport into the neoplastic tissue. The colour distinction is due to concentration differences of the reporting dye between three separated compartments, further enhancing the utility of the contrasting mixture. The diffusion dynamics shall be tuneable by optimizing starch composition, improving desirable pharmacokinetics.
Utilization of Bitter orange seeds as a novel source for recovery of pectin: Compositional and rheological characterization
Authors: Khodaei Diako , Nejatian Mohammad , Gavlighi Hassan Ahmadi , Garavand Farhad , Cacciotti Ilaria
Published: January 2022

The seeds from bitter orange, a by-product from the juice making step, hold the potential to facilitate novel, easy yet high quality pectin extraction. To test this hypothesis, the pectin from orange seeds (OSP) were extracted by distilled water and its compositional parameters and rheological behavior then evaluated. Results showed that galacturonic acid was the major component of OSP (~ 425 mg/g) confirming the purity of extracted pectin, followed by glucose and some minor neutral sugars. Mw, Rn and, Rz for the OSP were 4511.8 (kDa), 61 (nm), and 61.1 (nm), respectively. Rheological measurements showed shear-thinning behavior for OSP that by increasing temperature from 5 to 45 oC, the viscosity of the gum decreased. Power law fitted as the best rheological model describing the flow behavior of OSP. Strain sweep dynamic rheological measurements confirmed an entangled network structure for OSP and the addition of NaCl to the gum dispersion, decreased the consistency coefficient from 35.6 to 23.18 Pa.sn, while the flow behavior index remained unchanged. These results demonstrate for the first time that the OSP can be used as a new source of pectin, with likely a wide range of applications in food industry.
Role of the habenulo-interpeduncular system in the neurodevelopmental basis of susceptibility and resilience to stress-induced anxiety
Authors: Rakotobe Malalaniaina , Fjerdingstad Niels , Ruiz-Reig Nuria , Lamonerie Thomas , D'Autréaux Fabien
Published: January 2022

Experiencing stress during sensitive periods of brain development has a major impact on how individuals cope with later stress. Although many become more prone to develop anxiety or depression, some appear resilient. The mechanisms underlying these differences are unknown. Key answers may lie in how genetic and environmental stressors interact to shape the circuits controlling emotions. Here we studied the role of the habenulo-interpeducuncular system (HIPS), a critical node of reward circuits, in early stress-induced anxiety. We found that a subcircuit of this system, characterized by Otx2 expression, is particularly responsive to chronic stress during puberty, which induces HIPS hypersensitivity to later stress and susceptibility to develop anxiety. We further show that Otx2 deletion restricted to the HIPS counteracts these effects of stress.
Together, these results demonstrate that Otx2 and stress interact, around puberty, to shape the HIPS stress-response, revealed here as a key modulator of susceptibility/resilience to develop anxiety.
Einstellungen und Bewertungen von Eltern an reformpädagogischen Schulen zur medienerzieherischen Praxis
Authors: Kernbach Julia , Bleckmann Paula , Streit Benjamin , Pemberger Brigitte
Published: January 2022

Bisher sind Eltern als zentrale Akteure gelingender Medienbildung nach ihrem medienerzieherischen Handeln in der Familie, aber kaum nach einer differenzierten Bewertung der schulischen Praxis befragt worden. Für die MünDig-Studie, eine bundesweit im Herbst 2019 durchgeführte Onlinebefragung von Eltern, älteren Schülerinnen und Schülern und Lehrkräften an reformpädagogischen Schulen, erwiesen sich gängige Befragungsinstrumente als ungeeignet. Daher wurde ein multidimensionales Befragungsinstrument entwickelt, das medienerzieherische Einstellungen und Aktivitäten differenziert nach verschiedenen Medien (mit und ohne Bildschirm), dem Alter des Kindes sowie Lern-/Bildungszielen (Medienkompetenzrahmen NRW plus 4 zusätzliche Bereiche) erfasst. Die in der MünDig-Studie befragten Montessori- und Waldorfeltern bewerten die schulische medienerzieherische Praxis mehrheitlich positiv, sehen jedoch in Teilbereichen Defizite. Zufriedenheit zeigt sich bezüglich des pädagogischen Ansatzes, der «ein selbständiges, kritisches Denken und Handeln unterstützt» (88 %) und der Förderung von Medienmündigkeit durch den Einsatz von Medien ohne Bildschirm (88 %). Für die oberen Klassen wird mehr Einsatz digitaler Bildschirmmedien gewünscht (Eltern-Zufriedenheit 70 % in den Klassen 1-3, 44 % in den Klassen 10-13), ebenso deutlich mehr pädagogische wie technische Unterstützung. Zufriedenheit besteht über Aktivitäten der Schule, die Kinder und Jugendliche im sozialen Miteinander (74 %) zum Schutz vor Digital-Risiken im realen Leben stärken. Erstmals ermöglichen die entwickelten innovativen Bewertungsdimensionen die Beschreibung einer interessanten medienerzieherischen Haltung, die jenseits einer angenommenen Dichotomie «bewahrpädagogische» wie auch «aktiv-handlungsorientierte» Ansätze zu vereinen scheint.
Innovative human resource management practices for the talent management implementation
Authors: Coculova Jana , Tomcikova Luba
Published: January 2022

The central topic of the paper is talent management. It is a highly topical subject matter in science and theory of business management, particularly human resource management. Attracting and retaining talented employees has become one of the key roles of modern human resource management. The paper aims to provide an analytical view of the use of selected innovative human resource management (HRM) practices through a comparison of companies that implemented talent management practices and companies that did not implement talent management practices. In addition to processing the theoretical basis of talent management, the paper presents the research results carried out on a sample of 187 Slovak companies. Primary data were collected in person and through a questionnaire from January to June 2021. The research aimed to determine the current state of implementation of talent management practices in the Slovak Republic and verify the existence of statistically significant differences in the rate of use of selected innovative HRM practices methods between companies that implemented talent management practices and companies that did not implement talent management practices. For the research purposes, HRM practices directly related to the acquisition, development, and retention of talented employees were selected, particularly training and development, evaluation of individual performance, and remuneration. In the case of HRM practices, the research focused on methods used in the implementation of individual practices. In contrast, the rate of use of each method was determined on a Likert scale 1-5, with a value of 1. It expresses a low rate of use of the method and a value of 5 a high rate of use. To meet the aim of the research, research hypotheses for individual HRM practices were tested, in particular the H1 (training and development), H2 (performance evaluation), H3 (remuneration). For each HRM practice, three partial hypotheses were tested. The Mann-Whitney U test at a significance level of 5% was used to test the hypotheses, i.e., to determine statistically significant differences between the companies that implemented talent management practices and companies that did not implement talent management practices. The research results confirmed statistically significant differences in the use of selected HRM practices between companies that implemented talent management practices and companies that did not implement talent management practices in the case of 8 variables. In the case of 1 variable, the hypothesis was not confirmed.
Innovative development of Oil & Gas industry: role of environmental taxation
Authors: Huseynov Arif , Huseynov Emil , Samusevych Yaryna
Published: January 2022

The article is devoted to studying the relationship between environmental taxes and the innovative development of the oil and gas industry. The bibliometric analysis of the directions of scientific research of the chain «innovative management - oil and gas industry - environmental taxes» testified to the central place of the issue of sustainable development in ensuring innovative transformations of the industry. It is determined that at the present stage, the application of environmental taxes aims not only to reduce environmental pollution but also to ensure structural transformations of the economy on the way to ensuring its sustainable development. It has been proven that innovations in the oil and gas industry are connected with implementing more efficient technologies and the search for prospects for its transformation under the green economy goals. It is determined that the application of environmental taxes to stimulate sustainable development progress requires the complexity of their application with other instruments of state support for environmental innovation. An empirical analysis of the relationship between environmental taxation and oil and gas production and consumption using statistics for OECD countries for 2010-2019. Correlation analysis results identified the inverse relationship between the dynamics of indicators of environmental tax intensity and the parameters of the oil and gas industry. Regression with Newey-West standard errors dependences of changes in oil and gas production and consumption under the influence of changes in environmental tax revenues confirmed the existence of an inverse relationship. It is determined that with the growth of tax revenues from environmental taxes, there are significant reductions in both production and consumption of oil and gas. Accordingly, it is confirmed that environmental taxes are one of the reasons for the innovative transformations of the oil and gas industry, associated with reducing its traditional operation and the transition to more advanced technologies for energy production. The obtained results create a basis for adjusting the state strategies for regulating the functioning of the oil and gas industry and ensuring its innovative development.
Evaluation of the impact of science and technology on the labour market
Authors: Jazdauskaite Jorune , Prívarova Magdalena , Baranskaite Edita , Juscius Vytautas , Kelemen-Henyel Nikoletta
Published: January 2022

Science and technology have led to economic growth for more than 250 years. Three industrial revolutions were observed during this period. New technologies are still rapidly developed every day. Robots, various algorithms, 3D printing, artificial intelligence, software help people perform various tasks. The dissemination of information is digitized. Science and technology are seen as a tool of economic progress. Science and technology are composed of research and experimental development, social innovation research, high technology, and human resources in science and technology. Each of these components is linked to economic impact. One of the affected areas is the labor market. The labor market as a macroeconomic factor is described through employment and unemployment. Science and technology affect it, but the direction of impact is widely questioned. On the one hand, disseminating and implementing science and technology requires constant updating of knowledge. It could lead to widespread technological unemployment, as many people may lose their jobs due to automated jobs. On the other hand, the latest technologies could also lead to new businesses or new sectors and new jobs or professions. With the implementation of scientific technologies, the nature of work is changing. There is a need for specialists with higher qualifications, new knowledge. Such discussion reveals the lack of research that evaluates the impact of science and technology on the labor market. For revealing the impact of science and technology on the labor market, the analysis of Lithuanian statistical data and economic indicators was performed in the data collection process. The study involved correlation and regression analyses to evaluate the results. Correlation and regression analyses revealed that science and technology positively affect the growth of the country's employment rate and monthly wages (gross) and the decrease in the unemployment rate.
Innovations in circular economy for sustainable urban development
Authors: Veckalne Regina , Tambovceva Tatjana
Published: January 2022

In the past three decades, the concept of sustainable development became the focus of attention in practically all developed and developing countries. This concept aims to balance various economic, ecological, and social aspects that form the key pillars of sustainability. Notwithstanding the growing literature on sustainability, it is still unclear what components impact it. This paper summarizes and systematizes contemporary theoretical and methodological approaches to sustainable development and reviews urban sustainability factors mentioned in the literature to identify which ones are the most common and considered to be the most important. The authors analyzed the theoretical and practical foundations of the circular economy as a relatively new trend in sustainable urban development. Through the literature analysis, this paper concluded that the factors mentioned the most are related to the traditional three pillars of the sustainability model. Overall, 14 factors have been identified and packed into 4 groups: social factors, environmental factors, economic factors, and awareness factors. The research made it clear that the circular economy concept keeps evolving. It could be useful for achieving higher levels of urban sustainability through impact on some of the key urban sustainability factors. The achievement of sustainable development goals is reached within the general modernization processes observed in the economy and society. The technological and managerial innovations currently being implemented take into account the social, economic, and ecological needs of different subjects to the economy. This research paper is limited by its reliance on other scholars' self-reporting results of their studies. The results of this study could be used for further research in this field and perform as a foundation of achieving sustainable development on different levels of management through circular business models, recycled raw materials market, and management of circular production and consumption.
Evaluation of Peat Blended with Pine Wood Components for Effects on Substrate Physical Properties, Nitrogen Immobilization, and Growth of Petunia (Petunia ×hybrida Vilm.-Andr.)
Authors: Dickson Ryan W. , Helms Kalyn M. , Jackson Brian E. , Machesney Leala M. , Lee Jung Ae
Published: January 2022

The first objective was to evaluate wood components for differences in nitrogen (N) immobilization and effects on substrate physical properties. The second objective was to evaluate peat substrates amended with pine wood components for effects on plant growth, shoot tissue N, and fertigation practices during production. Substrates consisted of a coarse sphagnum peat blended with four types of processed pine wood at rates of 15%, 30%, 45%, and 60% (by volume). For comparison, peat was also blended with an aged pine bark, perlite, and coconut coir. Nitrogen immobilization was measured for individual components, except perlite. Individual components and blended substrates were evaluated for particle size distribution, total air porosity, container capacity, and dry bulk density. In a greenhouse experiment, petunia (Petunia × hybrida Vilm.-Andr.) were grown in hanging basket containers with each substrate blend as well as 100% peat, which served as a nonblended control substrate, and fertilized at each irrigation with 200 mg·L−1 N. Blended component and blend percent interacted in effects on all measured substrate physical properties; however, physical properties of all substrate blends were considered adequate for horticultural purposes. In the laboratory, pine bark immobilized 9% of total N supplied, whereas the remaining pine wood components immobilized <5% of total N. In the greenhouse experiment, blend component influenced shoot growth and flowering, which were greatest for petunia grown in 100% peat. Increasing the blend percent of all components decreased shoot growth and flowering with all blended components. Blended substrates had minimal effects on number of fertigation events, and substrate treatments differed by a maximum of three fertigation events per container over a 56-d period. This study illustrates the challenges of measuring N immobilization because results from the laboratory were not consistent with plant performance in the greenhouse. Increasing blends of each substrate (including perlite) were also observed to interact with fertigation practices and therefore applied N, tissue N, shoot dry weight, and total N uptake. As a practical conclusion from this study, peat incorporated with 60% wood fiber increased the risk of reduced plant growth and N uptake, but this risk was lower as the blend percentage decreased. In addition, other analytical methods to test N immobilization, such as microbial respiration, should be further explored.
Impact of Verticutting on the Efficacy and Soil Activity of ALS-inhibiting Herbicides for Dallisgrass Control
Authors: Brown Austin , Brosnan James , Basinger Nicholas , Porter Wesley , Henry Gerald
Published: January 2022

Dallisgrass (Paspalum dilatatum Poir.) control with postemergence herbicides is inefficient and inconsistent from year to year. Control with acetolactate synthase (ALS)-inhibiting herbicides may be enhanced through root absorption, but herbicide movement through dense turfgrass canopies may be difficult. The objectives of this research were to evaluate the influence of verticutting on the postemergence control of dallisgrass and the presence of ALS-inhibiting herbicides within the soil profile. Long-term dallisgrass control [17 weeks after initial treatment (WAIT)] was enhanced in response to verticutting at one of two locations. This may be attributed to differences in turfgrass management (mowing height) before trial initiation that impacted dallisgrass carbohydrate content and herbicide absorption. However, dallisgrass control with certain herbicides was enhanced at the second location in response to verticutting at earlier rating dates. Thiencarbazone + foramsulfuron + halosulfuron (TFH) and trifloxysulfuron at 112 g·ha−1 a.i. and carrier volume of 1628 L·ha−1 (TRI High CV) following mowing + verticutting resulted in the greatest long-term control 17 WAIT at one of two trial locations, 86% and 85%, respectively. Greenhouse experiments confirmed that mowing + verticutting dallisgrass before treatment followed by irrigation led to an increase in herbicide presence within the soil profile, regardless of herbicide. Presence of TFH went from 6.4 to 8.2 mm, trifloxysulfuron at 28 g·ha−1 a.i. and carrier volume of 407 L·ha−1 went from 6.7 to 8.5 mm, and TRI High CV went from 8.6 to 11.8 mm.
QUEFTS Model-based Estimation of the Nutrient Requirements and Fertilizer Recommendation for Chinese Onion
Authors: Wei Jianlin , Li Shutian , He Ping , Xu Xinpeng , Tan Deshui , Li Yan , Li Guosheng , Guo Yuesheng , Cui Rongzong
Published: January 2022

Accurate estimation of the nutrient requirements of Chinese onion is essential to increase its nutrient utilization efficiency and yield. In this study, the yield and nutrient uptake data were collected from major Chinese onion growing regions during 2001 to 2018, and the relationship between Chinese onion yield and nutrient uptake was evaluated using the Quantitative Evaluation of the Fertility of Tropical Soils (QUEFTS) model. The QUEFTS model predicted the linear-parabolic platform curve of the balanced nutrient uptake of Chinese onion and estimated the demand of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) for the potential target yields ranging from 40 t/ha to 120 t/ha. The nutrients required for the target yield increased linearly before reaching 60% to 70% of the potential yield. Nutrient requirements for producing 1 t of Chinese onion were 1.91 kg N–0.28 kg P–1.71 kg K. The corresponding nutrient internal efficiency (IE, yield per unit nutrient uptake) was 524.6 kg/kg, 3585.7 kg/kg, and 584.3 kg/kg for N, P and K, respectively. Subsequently, a nutrition decision-making software, Nutrient Expert (NE), for the Chinese onion was developed based on the improved QUEFTS model. Field verification studies for NE fertilizer recommendation were conducted in multiple Chinese onion growing plots for 2 consecutive years. Results showed that the QUEFTS model can be used to accurately estimate the nutrient requirements for Chinese onion within a defined range of target yield.
Does Inducing Tetraploidy in Vaccinium ovatum Improve Fruit Traits and Plant Architecture?
Authors: Neill Kristin E. , Contreras Ryan N.
Published: January 2022

Vaccinium ovatum (evergreen huckleberry) is an evergreen shrub native to the Pacific Northwest. Evergreen huckleberry is diploid (2n = 2x = 24), but unreduced gametes have been reported that facilitated in interspecific tetraploids. To our knowledge, tetraploid forms of evergreen huckleberry have not previously been evaluated. There is interest in this species as a native, edible, evergreen landscape shrub, but it requires improvement of the fruit and plant qualities for an eventual cultivar release. To obtain variation in plant qualities, we induced polyploidy in a collection of plants in 2013. The purpose of this study was to assess the impacts of polyploidy on the fruit and plant qualities of V. ovatum. This fruit and plant quality study provides a contribution to the scientific knowledge base that is currently lacking for evergreen huckleberries. Plant qualities were determined by measuring plant height and width, obtained in Fall 2017. The fruit volume (mm3) and for soluble solids content (SSC, °Brix) were measured using a digital caliper and a digital refractometer, respectively. Measurements were taken on diploid, mixoploid, and tetraploid (2x, 2x + 4x, 4x) cytotypes, once in 2017, five times over 9 weeks in 2018, and three times over 9 weeks in 2019. Tetraploids had larger fruit than diploids in 2017 (P < 0.0001), suggesting there was a gigas effect from polyploidy in evergreen huckleberries. However, during 2018 and 2019, tetraploid fruit was smaller than that of diploid and mixoploid genotypes. Differences were observed in diploid fruit volume among all years (P < 0.0001) such that 2019 was largest and 2017 was smallest. It is unclear what led to this variation. In tetraploids, SSC was statistically significant among years (P = 0.0002) such that 2017 was highest and 2019 was lowest. Although our preliminary data suggested that induced polyploidy may result in larger fruit, this was not observed in subsequent years, and it does not appear that tetraploids necessarily will have larger or sweeter fruit. However, these tetraploids may facilitate crossing with other species at the tetraploid level as a means for improvement of various traits.
Comparison of mini-screw-assisted rapid maxillary expansion in adolescents with different body mass indices: a prospective clinical study
Authors: Buyuk Suleyman Kutalmış , Simsek Huseyin , Hatal Sedanur , Sarımehmetoglu Nilge , Odabası Didem
Published: January 2022

Objectives

The objective of the present study was to compare the dentoskeletal effects of mini-screw-assisted rapid maxillary expansion (RME) in children with different body mass index (BMI) percentiles.

Study design

The study was performed on 20 patients who were divided into two groups based on their BMI percentiles as normal-weight (n = 10) and overweight-obese (n = 10). The linear, angular and area analyses were performed on lateral and postero-anterior cephalometric radiographs and three-dimensional dental models before and after RME therapy.

Results

A statistically significant increase was observed in maxillary intermolar and intercanine distances and palatal area measurements in both groups (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the two groups when dental RME changes were measured on 3D models. A significant difference was observed in latero-nasal and maxillo-mandibular width as well as postero-anterior cephalometric parameters between the groups (P < 0.05). While a significant change was observed in the SN-GoMe, FMA, Z angle, Wits appraisal, total anterior facial height and lower anterior facial height parameters in the normal-weight group (P < 0.05), a statistically significant change was observed in the gonial and nasolabial angles in the overweight-obese group.

Conclusions

Mini-screw-assisted RME treatment significantly increased maxillary intermolar and intercanine width, and the palatal area in both groups; however, there was no significant difference between the BMI groups.
Model-independent determination of the cosmic growth factor
Authors: Haude Sophia , Salehi Shabnam , Vidal Sofía , Maturi Matteo , Bartelmann Matthias
Published: January 2022

The two most important functions describing the evolution of the
universe and its structures are the expansion function
E(a)E(a)
and the linear growth factor D_+(a)D+(a).
It is desirable to constrain them based on a minimum of assumptions in
order to avoid biases from assumed cosmological models. The expansion
function has been determined in previous papers in a model-independent
way using distance moduli to type-Ia supernovae and assuming only a
metric theory of gravity, spatial isotropy and homogeneity. Here, we
extend this analysis in three ways: (1) We enlarge the data sample by
combining measurements of type-Ia supernovae with measurements of
baryonic acoustic oscillations; (2) we substantially simplify and
generalise our method for reconstructing the expansion function; and (3)
we use the reconstructed expansion function to determine the linear
growth factor of cosmic structures, equally independent of specific
assumptions on an underlying cosmological model other than the usual
spatial symmetries. In this approach, the present-day matter-density
parameter \Omega_\mathrm{m0}Ωm0
is the only relevant parameter for an otherwise purely empirical and
accurate determination of the growth factor. We further show how our
method can be used to derive a possible time evolution of the dark
energy as well as the growth index directly from distance measurements.
Deviations from \LambdaΛCDM
that we see in some of our results may be due to possibly insufficient
flexibility of our method that could be cured by larger data samples, a
real departure from \LambdaΛCDM
at a\lesssim0.3a≲0.3,
or hidden systematics in the data. The latter could be a matter of
concern for all type-Ia supernovae analyses based on
\LambdaΛCDM
fitting approaches, especially in view of the current dispute on the
value of H_0H0.
These results illustrate the applicability of our approach as a
diagnostic tool.
Creating better tracking portfolios with quantiles
Authors: Aguilar Mike , Custovic Anessa , Chengan Ruyang , Huang Ziming
Published: January 2022

Tracking error is a ubiquitous tool among active and passive portfolio managers, widely used for fund selection, risk management, and manager compensation. This paper shows that traditional measures of the tracking error are incapable of detecting variations in skewness and kurtosis. As a solution, this paper introduces a new class of Quantile Tracking Errors (QuTE), which measures differences in the quantiles of return distributions between a tracking portfolio and its benchmark. Through an extensive simulation study, this paper shows that QuTE is six times more sensitive than traditional tracking measures to skewness and three times more sensitive to kurtosis. The QuTE statistic is robust to various calibrations and can easily be customized. By using the QuTE tracking measure during the Dot Com bubble and the Great Recession, this paper finds differences between the DIA and its benchmark, the DJIA, that otherwise would have gone undetected. Quantile based tracking provides a robust method for relative performance measurement and index portfolio construction.
Chemically soluble fluoride in toothpastes marketed in Colombia
Authors: Marin Lina Maria , Castiblanco Gina Alejandra , Usuga-Vacca Margarita Viviana , Cury Jaime Aparecido , Martignon Stefania
Published: January 2022

Introduction and objective: Toothpastes should contain chemically soluble fluoride to have anti-caries efficacy. This study aimed at determining how much of the total fluoride (TF) concentration in the five top-selling children/family Colombian-toothpaste brands corresponds to total chemically soluble fluoride (TSF). Materials and methods: a convenience sample of three tubes of each of the following five toothpaste brands were obtained from three different chain stores, one-per-store, in five Colombian cities (n=3/brand/city): Colgate-Smiles-6+, Kolynos-Super-Blanco, Fortident-Cuatriacción, Colgate-Triple-Acción, Fluocardent. TF (sum of all toothpaste’s fluoride) and TSF (toothpaste’s chemically soluble fluoride) concentrations were determined in each fresh toothpaste sample (before expiry date) using a standardized ion-specific electrode direct-technique protocol. TF concentration was compared with the manufacturers’ declared concentration. The difference between TF and TSF’s concentrations purchased in different cities was compared with a one-way ANOVA (5%). Results: Most toothpastes’ TF concentration complied with what was declared in the label. One toothpaste had a non-compatible fluoride/abrasive fluoride formulation and TSF < TF; however, it still complied with the minimum TSF requirement to exert a caries-preventive effect (>1000 ppm). Toothpastes’ TF and TSF concentrations did not differ between cities (p>0.05). Conclusion: Fresh samples of highly distributed toothpaste brands sold in five Colombian- cities contain chemically available fluoride concentrations with the potential to control and prevent dental caries.
Approach and conservative surgical treatment of jaw ameloblastoma: case report
Authors: Silva Weslay Rodrigues , Lima Cleiton Rone dos Santos , Silva Jailton Gomes Amancio , Martins Ana Caroline Brito , Melo Thayanara Silva , Silva Thyago Morais Vicente
Published: January 2022

Ameloblastoma is a benign neoplasm, originated from the odontogenic epithelium. It preferentially affects the mandible and due to its infiltrative growth pattern, it has a tendency to local recurrence. Treatment varies based on clinical, histological and radiographic characteristics. The aggressive treatment, such as marginal resection, has shown good results, however, it also has greater morbidity. Conservative treatments, such as decompression, enucleation and curettage, can also be used, with specific indications, and when carefully performed, it has a good prognosis. Thus, the objective of this work is to describe a case of mandibular ameloblastoma, treated in a more conservative way. Male patient, 53 years old, presented an increase in volume in the anterior region of the mandible. The clinical and radiographic characteristics suggested that it was a cystic lesion, so decompression and incisional biopsy were performed, the diagnosis of which was cystic ameloblastoma. The decompression device was maintained until bone neoformation was no longer observed, with conservative marginal resection being performed, followed by peripheral ostectomy.
Condiciones laborales y satisfacción de los graduados del programa de Ortodoncia, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia. Estudio Exploratorio
Authors: Betancur Herrera Hugo Armando , Franco Aguirre John Querubin , Sánchez Garzón Juliana , Ochoa Acosta Emilia María
Published: January 2022

Introducción y objetivo: la ortodoncia se considera una especialidad clínica ejercida tradicionalmente en el marco de la práctica liberal independiente, sin embargo, los cambios en las dinámicas del mundo laboral, ameritan realizar monitoreo permanente de condiciones laborales de graduados de especialidades odontológicas. Describir las condiciones laborales y la satisfacción con el ejercicio profesional de los graduados del programa de ortodoncia, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Sede Medellín. Materiales y métodos: estudio descriptivo transversal sobre el total de la población de graduados del programa. La información se recolectó a través de una encuesta. Se realizó análisis univariado para la descripción de la información y análisis bivariado para explorar asociaciones. Resultados: la frecuencia de respuesta fue del 65% y la totalidad de los participantes reportó un tiempo menor a 6 meses para su inserción laboral. Se estableció con mayor frecuencia contratación por prestación de servicios. En general, la satisfacción con el ejercicio profesional fue alta, sin embargo, un 39,4% reportó mediana o baja satisfacción con el tipo de contrato. El sexo se encontró asociado al número de horas laboradas semanalmente. Conclusiones: las condiciones de los graduados son favorables en ciertos aspectos, entre ellos, la inserción al mercado laboral en corto tiempo. Asimismo, los ingresos están en rango alto frente a los promedios del país, sin embargo, se requieren estudios que amplíen el análisis acerca de aspectos como el tipo de contratación, las horas laboradas y elementos de flexibilización laboral que pueden llevar a un deterioro progresivo del ejercicio profesional de los especialistas.
Contribution of dentistry in the diagnosis of systemic disorders related to erosive tooth wear
Authors: Yamamoto de Almeida Lana Kei , Girotto Bussaneli Diego , Jeremias Fabiano
Published: January 2022

Erosive tooth wear (ETW) is the irreversible loss of dental hard tissue resulting from the chemical-mechanical process. The aim of the present case report was to present two clinical cases of patients affected by ETW arising from different etiological factors. The patients, of the male gender, 9 and 10 years of age presented to the pediatric dental clinic, for routine evaluation. On clinical exam, both patients had no caries lesions, but some lesions suggestive of ETW, which had aspects such as a translucent halo around the occlusal surface of teeth, in addition to "cupping” lesions - mainly in the cusp region, and loss of tooth enamel (by volume). The lesions were restricted to enamel, and the patients showed no dental hypersensitivity. From the dental clinical exam and anamnesis, the two patients were found to have similar tooth structure loss, with diagnosis of ETW. However, in one patient the etiology was extrinsic due to diet, and in the other, it was intrinsic due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The latter patient was referred to a specialist for evaluation of the systemic condition, and GERD was diagnosed. It was concluded that dentists play an important role, as coadjuvant in the diagnosis of health problems related to ETW. Therefore, meticulous clinical exams must be performed to establish the correct diagnosis, because swift intervention in the clinical cases presented had a positive impact on halting the erosive process.
MOTOR IMAGERY ABILITY IN TURKISH-SPEAKING STROKE PATIENTS: STUDY ON RELIABILITY AND CONSTRUCT VALIDITY STUDY OF TWO IMAGERY QUESTIONNAIRES
Authors: DİLEK Burcu , ARSLAN Büşra , HANOĞLU Lütfü
Published: January 2022

Purpose: Motor imagery is considered as a complementary approach for functional recovery after stroke. Thus, applying reliable assessment tools to measure imagery ability in stroke is essential. The aims of this study were to apply Turkish versions of the Movement Imagery Questionnaire-3 (MIQ-3) and the Kinesthetic and Visual Imagery Questionnaire-20 (KVIQ-20) in individuals with stroke and investigate the validity and reliability of both questionnaires.

Methods: Stroke patients with mild functional impairments (n=31) and healthy volunteers who age- and

gender-matched were selected as a control group (n=29) were recruited to the study. The test-retest reliability was assessed using intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs). Spearman’s correlation analysis

was performed to assess concurrent validity of the KVIQ-20 with the MIQ-3. Furthermore, the internal

consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) and factorial structures of both questionnaires were investigated.

Results: Each sub-score of the MIQ-3 was found statistically different between stroke and control groups (p