bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid symptom control in neuroleptic malignant syndrome with electroconvulsive therapy: A case report
Authors: Katzell Lauren , Beydler Emily , dos Santos Amílcar Silva , Vijayvargiya Richa , Carr Brent R.
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), thought to arise through dopamine antagonism, is life-threatening. While prompt diagnosis of NMS is critical, it may be obscured by other diagnoses, such as malignant catatonia, with overlapping, life-threatening symptoms. Initiation of dopamine-blocking agents such as antipsychotics and abrupt cessation of dopaminergic medications such as amantadine can precipitate NMS. Once NMS is suspected, deft medical management should ensue. Multiple case reports detail electroconvulsive therapy’s (ECT’s) effectiveness in the treatment of NMS. While this relationship is well-documented, there is less literature regarding comparative efficacy of ECT in the acute treatment of NMS-like states precipitated by withdrawal of dopamine agonists, such as amantadine.

Case

We present a 52-year-old female with schizoaffective disorder bipolar type, with a history of a lorazepam-resistant catatonic episode the prior year that had responded to amantadine. She presented febrile with altered mental status, lead pipe rigidity, mutism, grasp reflex, stereotypy, autonomic instability, and a Bush-Francis Catatonia Rating Scale (BFCRS) of 24, suggesting malignant catatonia versus NMS. There was concern over a potentially abrupt cessation of her amantadine of which she had been prescribed for the past year.

Interventions

Organic etiologies were ruled out, and a presumptive diagnosis of NMS was made with central dopaminergic depletion from abrupt dopamine agonist (amantadine) withdrawal as the suspected underlying etiology. After intravenous lorazepam and reinduction of amantadine failed to alleviate her symptoms, urgent ECT was initiated. Our patient received an index series of ECT of seven treatments. After ECT #1 she was no longer obtunded, after treatment #2 her symptoms of mutism, rigidity, stereotypy, and agitation showed improvement, and by ECT #3, the NMS had rapidly dissipated as evidenced by stable vital signs, lack of rigidity, and coherent conversation.

Conclusion

Brisk identification of potentially life-threatening NMS and NMS-like states, including malignant catatonia, warrants a trial of ECT. ECT’s theoretical mechanisms of action coincide with the theoretical pathophysiology of the conditions. It is a viable and safe treatment option for reducing mortality. With prompt initiation of ECT, we obtained rapid control of a condition with a potentially high mortality.
Increased anxiety and stress-related visits to the Shanghai psychiatric emergency department during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 compared to 2018–2019
Authors: Zhang TianHong , Chen Zheng , Xiao XuDong , Zhou LinLin , Hu YeGang , Xu LiHua , Wei YanYan , Tang XiaoChen , Liu HaiChun , Chen Tao , Wu HaiSu , Wu XuMing , Wang JiJun
Published: March 2023

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had a significant and far-reaching impact on mental health. The psychiatric emergency department (PED) is pivotal in the management of acute and severe mental illnesses, especially anxiety-and stress-related disorders.

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate whether changes in the frequency or patients’ demographics of visiting the PED occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic among individuals with anxiety and stress-related disorders.

Methods

This cross-sectional study used data on PED visit counts from the largest psychiatric hospital in China between 2018 and 2020 (before and during the COVID-19 pandemic). Data from 2020, representing the COVID-19 pandemic period, were extracted from electronic medical records and compared using descriptive statistics for the same periods in 2018 and 2019.

Results

The number of PED visits related to anxiety and stress disorders per year increased from 83 in 2018 to 136 (63.9% increase) in 2019 and 239 (188.0% increase) in 2020. Compared to that in 2018 and 2019, the proportion of PED visits in 2020 among patients with anxiety and stress disorders increased significantly. Patients with anxiety-and stress-related disorders during PED visits in 2020 were younger than those in 2018 and 2019 (three-year groups: F = 9.124, df = 2, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Despite the epidemic-policy barriers against PED visits, PED care seeking has increased, thereby underscoring the need for crisis prevention services for patients with stress and anxiety disorders.
Association between depression and lung function in college students
Authors: Wang Cui , Chen Hongbo , Shang Shaomei
Published: March 2023

Background

Depression is positively associated with lung dysfunction in middle-aged and older adults, but the correlation between depression and lung dysfunction in healthy young adults has not been well researched.

Methods

This cross-sectional study used a spirometer to evaluate the lung function of 352 college students (mean age: 24.1 years). The spirometry measurements included the peak expiratory flow (PEF), predicted percentage of the peak expiratory flow (PEF pp), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), predicted percentage of the FEV1 (FEV1 pp), forced vital capacity (FVC), predicted percentage of the FVC (FVC pp), FEV1/FVC ratio and the predicted percentage of the FEV1/FVC ratio (FEV1/FVC pp). A validated Chinese version of the 20-item Zung Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) was used to assess the severity of depression among young adults, with scores of ≥40 and ≥ 45 points indicating mild and moderate-to-severe depression, respectively. The Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to analyze the continuous variables, to estimate differences in lung function among the different levels of depression. Chi-square tests or Fisher’s exact tests were used to analyze the categorical variables, to estimate differences in characteristics among the different levels of depression. Several multiple logistic regression models were used to examine the associations between participants’ level of depression and each of the variables measuring lung function.

Results

Mild and moderate-to-severe depression were observed in 9.9 and 7.4% of the students, respectively. In particular, mild depression was associated with reduced FEV1 in both unadjusted (OR = 1.498, p = 0.003) and adjusted models (OR = 1.290, p = 0.018; OR = 1.199, p = 0.044). On the other hand, moderate-to-severe depression was significantly but negatively related to FEV1 in both unadjusted (OR = 3.546, p = 0.005) and adjusted models (OR = 3.137, p = 0.020; OR = 2.980, p = 0.048). Furthermore, the unadjusted model indicated that mild depression was associated with a higher risk of a lower PEF (OR = 3.546, p = 0.008).

Conclusion

Severe depression is an independent predictor of decreased FEV1 among Chinese college students.
Humoral response after a fourth dose of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine in immunocompromised patients. Results of a systematic review
Authors: Martinelli Silvia , Pascucci Domenico , Laurenti Patrizia
Published: March 2023

Background and objective

The fourth dose the COVID-19 vaccine was first proposed to immunocompromised patients. The aim of the article is to systematically review the literature and report the humoral response and outcomes after the fourth dose administration in people with impaired immune system.

Methods

Published studies on the humoral response, efficacy and safety of the fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine were analyzed in various settings of immunocompromised patients. We conducted systematic searches of PubMed, Cochrane Library and WHO COVID-19 Research Database for series published through January 31, 2023, using the search terms “fourth dose” or “second booster” or “4th dose” and “Coronavirus” or “COVID-19” or “SARS-CoV-2.” All articles were selected according to the PRISMA guidelines.

Results

A total of 24 articles including 2,838 patients were comprised in the systematic review. All the studies involved immunocompromised patients, including solid organ transplant recipients, patients with autoimmune rheumatic disease, patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and patients with blood cancers or diseases. Almost all patients received BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273 as fourth dose. All the studies demonstrated the increase of antibody titers after the fourth dose, both in patients who had a serological strong response and in those who had a weak response after the third dose. No serious adverse events after the 4th dose have been reported by 13 studies. COVID-19 infection after the fourth dose ranged from 0 to 21%.

Conclusion

The present review highlights the importance of the fourth dose of covid-19 vaccines for immunocompromised patients. Across the included studies, a fourth dose was associated with improved seroconversion and antibody titer levels. In particular, a fourth dose was associated with increasing immunogenicity in organ transplant recipients and patients with hematological cancers, with a very low rate of serious side effects.
Digital cities and the spread of COVID-19: Characterizing the impact of non-pharmaceutical interventions in five cities in Spain
Authors: Rodríguez Jorge P. , Aleta Alberto , Moreno Yamir
Published: March 2023

Mathematical modeling has been fundamental to achieving near real-time accurate forecasts of the spread of COVID-19. Similarly, the design of non-pharmaceutical interventions has played a key role in the application of policies to contain the spread. However, there is less work done regarding quantitative approaches to characterize the impact of each intervention, which can greatly vary depending on the culture, region, and specific circumstances of the population under consideration. In this work, we develop a high-resolution, data-driven agent-based model of the spread of COVID-19 among the population in five Spanish cities. These populations synthesize multiple data sources that summarize the main interaction environments leading to potential contacts. We simulate the spreading of COVID-19 in these cities and study the effect of several non-pharmaceutical interventions. We illustrate the potential of our approach through a case study and derive the impact of the most relevant interventions through scenarios where they are suppressed. Our framework constitutes a first tool to simulate different intervention scenarios for decision-making.
A moderated mediation analysis of depression and age on the relationship between resilience and frailty among HIV-positive adults
Authors: Meng Lijun , Chen Dan , Hu Peiwu , Yao Meng , Zhou Cui , Li Xingli
Published: March 2023

Background

Given the continuing challenges frailty poses among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (PLHIV), accumulating evidence suggests that frailty is linked to psychological factors. However, the mutual influences of resilience, depression, and frailty have not yet been clarified. This study aimed to identify the potential mechanistic pathway through which psychological factors mitigate frailty.

Methods

Data were collected from June to August 2019 by trained investigators through face-to-face interviews with 375 HIV-positive Chinese adults. Each participant completed structured questionnaires to collect data in respect of their socio-demographic characteristics, and levels of frailty, depression, and resilience. These assessment measures included a self-designed questionnaire, the Tilburg Frailty Indicator (TFI), the 10-item Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D-10), and the 10-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10). SPSS PROCESS macro was used to analyze the mediation and moderated mediation models.

Results

The overall prevalence of frailty was 26.4%, and the prevalence of frailty among older and younger adults living with HIV was 22 and 31.4%, respectively. Mediation analysis showed that an association between resilience and frailty was mediated by depression, whereas resilience did not mediate the relationship between depression and frailty. Compared to physical frailty, depression was a stronger mediator of resilience to psychological frailty. We further found that age moderated the indirect effect of resilience on psychological frailty, with resilience being a stronger negative predictor of depression and depression being a stronger positive predictor of psychological frailty for older PLHIV than for younger PLHIV.

Conclusion

Lower levels of resilience and greater levels of depression may be significant risk factors for frailty among PLHIV. Levels of resilience influenced frailty directly and frailty was indirectly affected by depression. Therefore, it is recommended that PLHIV, especially older patients, should be encouraged to establish positive psychological coping strategies to slow the progression of frailty.
Socio-ecological determinants of older people’s mental health and well-being during COVID-19: A qualitative analysis within the Irish context
Authors: Guzman Viveka , Doyle Frank , Foley Ronan , Craven Peter , Crowe Noelene , Wilson Penny , Smith Ailbhe , Hegarty Gerry , Pertl Maria M.
Published: March 2023

Background

Evidence indicates that older people with biological and social vulnerabilities are at high risk of short- and long-term consequences related to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, studies have also highlighted that the crisis may present opportunities for personal growth if older individuals are met with appropriate resources and support.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of older people regarding how individual, social, and environmental factors have supported or hindered their well-being and health during COVID-19.

Methods

We analyzed data collected between April–May and October–November 2021 from the Well-being, Interventions and Support during Epidemics (WISE) study, a qualitative investigation of community-dwellers based in Ireland and aged 65 years or over. Participants (n = 57) completed written submissions, narrative interviews and/or go-along interviews detailing their experiences during the pandemic. Framework analysis was carried out in NVivo 12 to identify determinants, linkages, and explanations within Bronfenbrenner’s socio-ecological model.

Results

The mean age of participants was 74.9 years, 53% were female, 45% lived alone, and 86% lived in areas with high urban influence. Our findings highlight the heterogeneous effect of COVID-19 across diverse older individuals who held distinct concerns, capabilities, and roles in society before and during the pandemic. Multi-scalar contextual characteristics such as individual’s living arrangements, neighborhood social and built environments, as well as social expectations about aging and help seeking, had an influential role in participants’ well-being and available supports. We identified mixed views regarding public health restrictions, but a consensus emerged questioning the suitability of one-size-fits-all approaches based on chronological age.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that some negative pandemic consequences could have been avoided by increasing collaboration with older people and with the provision of clearer communications. The interdependencies identified between individual characteristics and socio-ecological factors that influenced participants’ availability of supports and development of adaptive strategies represent areas of opportunity for the development of age-friendly interventions during and beyond public health crises.
Comparison of antibiotic resistance genes in swine manure storage pits of Iowa, USA
Authors: Neher Timothy P. , Soupir Michelle L. , Andersen Daniel S. , O’Neill Maggie L. , Howe Adina
Published: March 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) can develop in deep-pit swine manure storage when bacteria are selectively pressured by unmetabolized antibiotics. Subsequent manure application on row crops is then a source of AMR into soil and downstream runoff water. Therefore, understanding the patterns of diverse antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in manure among different farms is important for both interpreting the results of the detection of these genes from previous studies and for the use of these genes as bioindicators of manure borne antibiotic resistance in the environment. Previous studies of manure-associated ARGs are based on limited samples of manures. To better understand the distribution of ARGs between manures, we characterized manures from 48 geographically independent swine farms across Iowa. The objectives of this study were to characterize the distribution of ARGs among these manures and to evaluate what factors in manure management may influence the presence of ARGs in manures. Our analysis included quantification of two commonly found ARGs in swine manure, ermB and tetM. Additionally, we characterized a broader suite of 31 ARGs which allowed for simultaneous assays of the presence or absence of multiple genes. We found the company integrator had a significant effect on both ermB (P=0.0007) and tetM gene concentrations (P=0.0425). Our broad analysis on ARG profiles found that the tet(36) gene was broadly present in swine manures, followed by the detection of tetT, tetM, erm(35), ermF, ermB, str, aadD, and intl3 in samples from 14 farms. Finally, we provide a comparison of methods to detect ARGs in manures, specifically comparing conventional and high-throughput qPCR and discuss their role in ARG environmental monitoring efforts. Results of this study provide insight into commonalities of ARG presence in manure holding pits and provide supporting evidence that company integrator decisions may impact ARG concentrations.
An argumentation semantics for rational human evaluation of arguments
Authors: Cramer Marcos , van der Torre Leendert
Published: March 2023

In abstract argumentation theory, many argumentation semantics have been proposed for evaluating argumentation frameworks. This article is based on the following research question: Which semantics corresponds well to what humans consider a rational judgment on the acceptability of arguments? There are two systematic ways to approach this research question: A normative perspective is provided by the principle-based approach, in which semantics are evaluated based on their satisfaction of various normatively desirable principles. A descriptive perspective is provided by the empirical approach, in which cognitive studies are conducted to determine which semantics best predicts human judgments about arguments. In this article, we combine both approaches to motivate a new argumentation semantics called SCF2. For this purpose, we introduce and motivate two new principles and show that no semantics from the literature satisfies both of them. We define SCF2 and prove that it satisfies both new principles. Furthermore, we discuss findings of a recent empirical cognitive study that provide additional support to SCF2.
Synthetic cell research: Is technical progress leaving theoretical and epistemological investigations one step behind?
Authors: Stano Pasquale , Damiano Luisa
Published: March 2023

Advancements in the research on so-called “synthetic (artificial) cells” have been mainly characterized by an important acceleration in all sorts of experimental approaches, providing a growing amount of knowledge and techniques that will shape future successful developments. Synthetic cell technology, indeed, shows potential in driving a revolution in science and technology. On the other hand, theoretical and epistemological investigations related to what synthetic cells “are,” how they behave, and what their role is in generating knowledge have not received sufficient attention. Open questions about these less explored subjects range from the analysis of the organizational theories applied to synthetic cells to the study of the “relevance” of synthetic cells as scientific tools to investigate life and cognition; and from the recognition and the cultural reappraisal of cybernetic inheritance in synthetic biology to the need for developing concepts on synthetic cells and to the exploration, in a novel perspective, of information theories, complexity, and artificial intelligence applied in this novel field. In these contributions, we will briefly sketch some crucial aspects related to the aforementioned issues, based on our ongoing studies. An important take-home message will result: together with their impactful experimental results and potential applications, synthetic cells can play a major role in the exploration of theoretical questions as well.
Inculcating entrepreneurial values in creating business sustainability through business independence in batik craftsmen
Authors: Rahayu Wening Patmi , Hapsari Novia Tri , Wibowo Agus , Qodri Lutfi Asnan , Rusmana Dede , Narmaditya Bagus Shandy
Published: March 2023

This research aimed to determine the effect of inculcating entrepreneurial values on business independence and sustainability among 216 batik craftsmen. It also aimed to examine the effect of business independence on business sustainability. Additionally, it intended to determine the impact of entrepreneurial values on business sustainability through business independence. The education of entrepreneurial values that are integrated into business independence is theoretically possible to be one of the strengthening factors for business continuity. Sixty-eight samples were selected from the population of batik craft entrepreneurs. The sampling technique uses proportional random sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed with Path Analysis. Entrepreneurial values positively and significantly affect business independence and sustainability. Business independence positively and significantly affects business sustainability. Similarly, entrepreneurial values positively and significantly affect business sustainability through business independence. This research shows that the inculcation of entrepreneurial values has a positive and significant effect both directly and through the mediating variables of business independence. It is proven that the inculcation of entrepreneurial values through business independence has a more significant influence than a direct relationship with business continuity. This research offers insight into the importance of inculcating entrepreneurial values on business sustainability directly and through business independence.
Students' perception of energy poverty—A comparative analysis between local and exchange university students from Montevideo, Lisbon, and Padua
Authors: Castro Carolina Cruz , Gouveia João Pedro
Published: March 2023

Energy Poverty (EP) is a growing concern in EU and national policies. Limited research has been conducted on students' perception of EP and vulnerability to EP, especially on how this may be modified if the student is a local or an exchange university student and how this interacts with the season (i.e., summer and winter). Therefore, the present research aims to deepen this understanding by analyzing and comparing students' perceptions of EP and exploring their vulnerability to EP, considering their background and the city they live in, using Montevideo in Uruguay, Lisbon in Portugal, and Padua in Italy, as case studies. To achieve these aims, two populations of university students in each city were surveyed: one of Local Students (LS) and another of Exchange Students (ES). Responses from 295 students to an online survey with 44 questions covering several aspects of EP and energy awareness, such as energy consumption habits, vulnerability drivers, energy equipment, and lived experience in maintaining comfortable internal temperatures, were collected in 2022. Differences between the perception of LS and ES in each city were analyzed, as well as differences in students' perceptions among cities. Although it is difficult to generalize, comfort levels seem to vary according to location, type of students, and season, but according to the results, there seems to be an interaction between these three factors. According to this research, most students did not identify themselves as living in EP, but several populations perceived discomfort in both winter and summer, showing their vulnerability to EP.
Space physics guide to STRIDE: Strategies and tactics for recruiting to improve diversity and excellence
Authors: Liemohn Michael W. , Linderman Jennifer J. , Settles Isis H.
Published: March 2023

The space physics research community is not diverse. This is especially true at the senior experience levels, but is even true for our student populations, which are also not matching the demographics of the general public. Striving towards a demographic shift to match the general population promotes equity and inclusion. In addition, diversity increases research productivity. Unfortunately, bias exists, including within the space physics research community, and this negatively impacts hiring practices and perpetuates the demographic mismatch. Yet there are many strategies and tactics that can be adopted to counter this problem. A number of these methods are presented and discussed, specifically those regarding the search process for hiring new research group members. The key methods for achieving an equitable search process are as follows: develop a holistic rubric early, even before the job ad is posted; slow down the downselect from the full applicant pool to the short list of finalists so that the rubric can be carefully applied to each candidate; make the interview process as equitable as possible by considering the ways in which it could be biased; and conduct a fair decision-making process that focuses on the job-relevant criteria and avoids global rankings until the final vote.
Glucocorticoids and physical performance: A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Riiser Amund , Stensrud Trine , Andersen Lars Bo
Published: March 2023

Introduction

This systematic review with meta-analysis investigates the effect of glucocorticoids on maximal and submaximal performance in healthy subjects.

Methods

We searched for randomised controlled trials investigating the effect of glucocorticoids on physical performance in Web of Science, Scopus, Medline, Embase and SportDiscus in March 2021. Risk of bias was assessed with the revised Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool (RoB2). Data from random effect models are presented as standardized difference in mean (SDM) with 95% confidence interval. We included 15 studies comprising 175 subjects.

Results

Two studies had high risk of bias. Glucocorticoids had a small positive effect on maximal physical performance compared to placebo (SDM 0.300, 95% CI 0.080 to 0.520) and the SDM for the 13 included comparisons was not heterogeneous (I2 = 35%, p = 0.099). Meta regression found no difference in the effect of acute treatment vs. prolonged treatment or oral ingestion vs. inhalation (p > 0.124). In stratified analysis prolonged treatment (SDM 0.428, 95% CI 0.148 to 0.709) and oral ingestion (SDM 0.361, 95% CI 0.124 to 0.598) improved physical performance. Glucocorticoids improved aerobic performance (SDM 0.371, 95% CI 0.173 to 0.569) but not anaerobic performance (p = 0.135). Glucocorticoids did not change energy expenditure during submaximal performance (SDM 0.0.225 95% CI −0.771 to 0.112).

Discussion

This study indicates that glucocorticoids improves maximal performance and aerobic performance. Glucocorticoids did not affect the energy expenditure during submaximal performance. The conclusions are based on relatively few subjects leading to limited statistical power and uncertain estimates. Still, these results are consistent and should be of interest to WADA and anyone concerned about fair play.

Systematic Review Registration

Open Science Framework 2021-04-29 (https://osf.io/fc29t/).
Uptake of agroforestry-based crop management in the semi-arid Sahel – Analysis of joint decisions and adoption determinants
Authors: Grovermann Christian , Rees Charles , Beye Assane , Wossen Tesfamicheal , Abdoulaye Tahirou , Cicek Harun
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Agroforestry plays a vital role in maintaining and developing the resilience and productivity of farms and landscapes. Scientific evidence from the Sahel region suggests that integration of trees and shrubs has the potential to improve temperature and moisture levels whilst providing bio-based fertilizer that contributes to increased yields of annual crops. However, little is known about the factors that influence the diffusion of agroforestry. This study examines joint decisions on the use of agroforestry alongside other complementary agricultural practices and disentangles agroforestry awareness from adoption and disadoption decisions.

Methods

Our analysis is based on a comprehensive farm-level dataset covering almost 3,000 farm households in Mali and Senegal. A large number of adoption determinants are utilized, with a special focus on information access, information flows and social groups.

Results

The findings suggest that extension access and training participation boost awareness of agroforestry-based soil fertility management, while information provided by public extension, NGOs and community members is strongly associated with higher adoption intensity. In the analysis of disadoption, farmer-to-farmers exchange in the community was found to be a key factor in the decision to maintain agroforestry use. Membership in cooperatives and youth groups appear to have a favorable effect on awareness and adoption in Mali, but less so in the Senegalese case. Similarly, only results from Mali show that adoption of agroforestry is accompanied by the adoption of other sustainable intensification practices and lower use of synthetic pesticides.

Discussion

We conclude that in order to support the transition to more widespread agroforestry-based soil fertility management, it is essential to strengthen public and NGO-based advisory systems that fully engage with local knowledge networks.
Rice residue recirculation enhances mobilization and plant acquisition of soil inorganic phosphorus by increasing silicon availability in a semi-arid Inceptisol
Authors: Ghosh Avijit , Biswas Dipak Ranjan , Bhattacharyya Ranjan , Das Shrila , Das Tapas K. , Lal K. , Saha Supradip , Alam Khurshid , Casini Ryan , Elansary Hosam O. , Manjangouda S. S.
Published: March 2023

Massive amounts of rice straw (RS) provide a significant problem for in situ and instant management at a low cost. On the other hand, mobilizing soil phosphorus (P) from inorganically fixed pools may increase its effectiveness over time. To address both of these issues at once as well as to decide the optimum rate of RS for P mobilization, this study was carried out to determine whether the use of RS + P solubilizing microbes (PSMs) could solubilize a sizable portion of the soil's fixed P and affect P transformation, silicon (Si) concentration, organic acid (OA) concentration, and enzyme activity to increase wheat yield. Depending on the soil temperature, the application of RS (at 12 Mg ha−1) + PSM could solubilize 3.40–3.66% of the inorganic P. Over control, it minimized the hysteresis impact by 6–8%. The soils of wheat included the acids oxalic acid, citric acid, formic acid, malic acid, and tartaric acid. At maturity stage of wheat, application of RS (at 12 Mg ha−1) + PSM + 75%P raised the activity of dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase activity, cellulase, and peroxidase by 1.77, 1.65, 1.87, and 1.82 times above control in soil, respectively. It also boosted Si concentration in the soil increased by 58% over control. Wheat grain yield was 40 and 18% higher under RS (at 12 Mg ha−1) + PSM + 75%P application than under control and 100% P application. Additionally, it increased root volume, length, and P uptake by 2.38, 1.74, and 1.62 times above control, respectively. According to path analysis, P solubilisation by Si and OAs considerably increased P availability in the wheat root zone. Therefore, cultivators could be advised to use RS (at 12 Mg ha−1) + PSM + 75% P of mineral P fertilizer to save 25% P fertilizer without reducing yield.
Does fairness matter? Consumers' perception of fairness in the agro-food chain
Authors: Del Prete Margherita , Samoggia Antonella
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Defining ‘fairness’ in the agro-food sector is a challenging task. There is no single definition of fairness and the literature does not provide a complete conceptualization from the consumer's point of view. The current research seeks to explore the consumers' interest in fairness and ethics in the agro-food chain by exploring (i) a comprehensive theoretical framework to conceptualize fairness from a consumer perspective, and (ii) the consumers' perceived importance of different food attributes as fairness-related aspects.

Method

Literature review and focus groups allowed for the creation of the final survey to be submitted to consumers. 529 valid responses from a predominantly Italian female sample were collected. Data were elaborated with Exploratory Factor Analysis and ANOVA test.

Results

The research identified five dimensions of fairness: Fair price, environment, networking, short chain, and working condition. Also, it emerged that age influences consumers' perceived importance of products with fair attributes.

Discussion

This research contributes to the development of a fairer and more sustainable food system by identifying perceptions of agro-food chain fairness and establishing a link with food shopping intentions. The research provides companies with suggestions on how to expand sales by reaching a greater number of consumers.
Building the resilience of agri-food systems to compounding shocks and stresses: A case study from Melbourne, Australia
Authors: Murphy Maureen , Carey Rachel , Alexandra Leila
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The war in Ukraine is causing significant disruption to global agri-food systems, which are still recovering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. In Australia, these global shocks followed a series of localized climate-induced crises from forest fires, floods and drought. There is a pressing need to increase our understanding of ways to strengthen the resilience of agri-food systems to multiple shocks and stresses that co-occur or follow on each other. The aims of this study in Melbourne, Australia, were to investigate how forest fire and pandemic shocks affected the agri-food system, to identify vulnerabilities in the system, and to explore opportunities to build resilience to future shocks and stresses.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted during 2020-21 with 41 key stakeholders from government, industry and civil society organizations.

Results and discussion

Vulnerabilities identified in agri-food supply chains included geographic and corporate concentration, complex “just in time” supply chains, critical infrastructure and logistics, and workforce availability. Strategies identified to build the resilience of agri-food systems include increasing the diversity of supply chains, decentralization, collaboration throughout agri-food supply chains, and ensuring sustainable livelihoods.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the cascading effects of multiple shocks and stresses on agri-food systems, and the need for greater policy focus on transformative actions that build the resilience of agri-food systems to any future shock, and that counter the cumulative effects of underlying environmental stresses.
Uterine torsion in twin pregnancy with complete bicorporeal uterus, double cervix, longitudinal non-obstructing vaginal septum - a case report
Authors: Gao Qianqian , Xiong Jinqiu , Zhu Yuchun
Published: March 2023

Even though uterine torsion is a rare obstetric complication in humans, it has been linked to severe complications like placental abruption, uterine rupture, foetal bradycardia, or even death. Here, we present a rare case of maternal shortening and prolonged foetal bradycardia. The patient suffered from congenital malformations of the female genital tract, which were classified as a complete bicorporeal uterus, a double “normal” cervix, and a longitudinal non-obstructing vaginal septum (U3b/C2/V1). The patient had an emergency caesarean section due to suspected placental abruption. Uterine torsion was found during the surgery, and the postoperative recovery was good. Obstetricians should be aware of the possibility of uterine torsion as a complication of pregnancy to avoid a delayed diagnosis of uterine torsion, especially in patients with genital malformations. During the surgery, there could be serious damage to blood vessels and tissues around the uterus due to an unclear surgical field, and difficulties in exposing the uterine body should be considered.
Paravertebral block vs. epidural block for percutaneous nephrolithotomy: A prospective, randomized study
Authors: Zhu Pengcheng , Meng Qianqian , Miao YuanYuan , Zhou Le , Wang Chun , Yang Haitao
Published: March 2023

Background

Percutaneous nephrolithotripsy (PCNL) is the main method for urinary calculi. An anesthesia method with little effect on the blood circulation and which does not affect the postoperative activity of a patient is lacking.

Objective

To compare the effects of paravertebral nerve block (PNB) and epidural block (EPB) on quadriceps femoris muscle (QFM) strength in patients after PCNL.

Methods

163 patients were separated into two groups: EPB (81) and PNB (82). Primary outcome parameters were QFM strength and range of motion (RoM) of the knee 1 h, 2 h, 3 h, and 24 h after anesthesia induction (AI). Secondary outcome parameters were: time from AI beginning to first ambulation; time of sensory-plane recovery; amount of additional analgesics given during and after surgery; prevalence of nausea and vomiting; duration of hospital stay (DoHS); mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and oxygen saturation (SpO2) before, 0.5 h, and 1 h after AI; visual analog scale (VAS) score 0.5 h, 1 h, 2 h, 3 h and 24 h after AI.

Results

There was no significant difference in QFM strength or knee RoM before or 24 h after AI between the two groups (P > 0.05). The time from AI to first ambulation was shorter (P < 0.05) and the sensory plane took longer to recover (P < 0.05) in the PNB group than in the EPB group. The amount of additional analgesics during surgery was more in the PNB group than in the EPB group (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference after surgery (P > 0.05). VAS scores were higher in the PNB group than in the EPB group 0.5 after AI (P < 0.05). MAP 1 h after AI was higher in the PNB group than in the EPB group (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the prevalence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, DoHS, HR, or SpO2 at 0.5 h and 1 h after AI between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

For patients undergoing PCNL, PNB can meet the need for surgical analgesia while having little effect on QFM strength.

Trial registration

http://www.chictr.org.cn/, identifier ChiCTR2200060606.
Robotic resection of a single adenoid cystic tumor liver metastasis using ICG fluorescence. A case report and literature review
Authors: Pasquale Alessio , Marinelli Laura , Ciarleglio Francesco Antonio , Campora Michela , Salimian Nick , Viel Giovanni , Brolese Alberto
Published: March 2023

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (AdCC) is a rare tumor that typically develops in the salivary glands and less frequently in other sites of the head and neck region. Only a few cases of resected metachronous liver metastases have been reported. Minimally invasive surgery is currently the gold standard of care for liver resections; furthermore, the use of Indocyanine Green (ICG) is continuously increasing in surgical practice, especially in cases of primary liver tumors and colorectal liver metastases, due to its capacity to enhance liver nodules. We report the case of a 54-year-old male with a single liver metastasis of AdCC, located in SIII, who presented in our center 9 months after resection of a primary tumor of the laryngotracheal junction and adjuvant proton therapy. A 25-mg injection of ICG (0.3 mg/kg) was administered 48 h before surgery in order to highlight the tumor and perform an ICG-guided resection. The lesion was clearly visible during surgery, and, given its position and the proximity to the main lobar vessels of the left lobe, we opted for a left lateral sectionectomy. The outcome was unremarkable, with no major postoperative complications. The administration of ICG 48 h before surgery seems to be a valid tool even in cases of AdCC liver metastases, providing surgeons with better visualization of the lesion and improving the precision of the resection.
Toxoplasma gondii in sheep: Serological occurrence at slaughterhouse level in Italy and environmental risk factors
Authors: Condoleo Roberto , Rombolà Pasquale , Palumbo Roberta , Santori Davide , Serra Salvatore , Tonon Sara , Bosco Antonio , Sezzi Erminia
Published: March 2023

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease affecting a wide range of species, including humans, and can be responsible for important clinical manifestations such as abortion and neurological signs. Sheep show a remarkable susceptibility to its causative agent, Toxoplasma gondii, and zoonotic transmission may occur in case of consumption of undercooked meat obtained from infected animals. Toxoplasma gondii seroprevalence in sheep can significantly vary on a geographical basis, as shown by numerous surveys conducted worldwide. To investigate environmental and climate conditions that may affect the likelihood of ovine infection, 405 serum samples from selected sheep raised in 91 farms were collected from two abattoirs, with each abattoir receiving animals from two regions (1/Tuscany-Latium and 2/Campania-Basilicata). The seroprevalence of infection in all examined animals was 53.8%. Young animals (n = 165) had a lower likelihood of being T. gondii positive compared to the adults (OR = 0.21), and the seropositive rate of animals slaughtered in abattoir 2 was significantly higher than that of animals slaughtered in abattoir 1 (60.5 vs. 43.2%, p < 0.01). The significant bioclimatic variables (p < 0.05) associated with the presence of T. gondii antibodies were related to areas with a lower range of temperature and higher precipitation. In conclusion, this study expands on the interpretation of serological data, with the inclusion of environmental and climatic variables, as possible risk factors in the spread of toxoplasmosis in the study area. These findings provide novel insights to support public health measures, such as risk-based control plan, and contribute to a “One Health” approach, taking into account the environmental and climatic perspectives.
Aflatoxin contamination of animal feeds and its predictors among dairy farms in Northwest Ethiopia: One Health approach implications
Authors: Tadele Fitalew , Demissie Biruk , Amsalu Alebachew , Demelash Habtamu , Mengist Zelalem , Ambelu Argaw , Yenew Chalachew
Published: March 2023

Background

In dairy farming, animal feed is the first line of food safety. Animal feed can become contaminated and spoiled on farms or in storage facilities due to the diverse microorganisms that are naturally present around or on various animal feeds. This study aims to assess the level of aflatoxin and predictors in animal feeds among dairy farms in the South Gondar Zone of Ethiopia.

Methods

A total of 100 samples of each animal feed ingredient (atella, hay, commercial concentrates, and cut and carry pasture) were obtained. A total of 400 animal feed ingredient samples were tested separately among 100 randomly chosen dairy farmers for aflatoxin analysis. Simultaneously, swabs from cow udders and water samples were also collected. Using a structured and pretested questionnaire, the knowledge and practices of animal feed administrators responsible for managing animal feed were also evaluated. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression models were used to identify determinants.

Results

From the total animal feed analyzed, 96% was positive for aflatoxins. Feed storage facilities, feed storage duration, education of animal feed administrators, mixed concentrates, and previous training were found to be associated with aflatoxin contamination levels in animal feeds.

Conclusions

The levels of aflatoxin contamination in animal feeds were found to be higher than the recommended limit; these findings suggest the spread of aflatoxin contamination between humans and animals. Furthermore, the occurrence of aflatoxins in the environment results from milk becoming contaminated with aflatoxins. A One Health strategy should therefore receive special consideration to tackle such problems and safeguard consumer safety.
Effects of carnosine on the embryonic development and TiO2 nanoparticles-induced oxidative stress on Zebrafish
Authors: Caruso Giuseppe , Scalisi Elena Maria , Pecoraro Roberta , Cardaci Vincenzo , Privitera Anna , Truglio Emanuela , Capparucci Fabiano , Jarosova Romana , Salvaggio Antonio , Caraci Filippo , Brundo Maria Violetta
Published: March 2023

Oxidative stress is due to an unbalance between pro-oxidants, such as reactive oxygen (ROS) and nitrogen (RNS) species, and antioxidants/antioxidant system. Under physiological conditions these species are involved in different cellular processes such as cellular homeostasis and immune response, while an excessive production of ROS/RNS has been linked to the development of various diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease. In this context, the naturally occurring dipeptide carnosine has shown the ability to scavenge ROS, counteract lipid peroxidation, and inhibit proteins oxidation. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs) have been widely used to produce cosmetics, in wastewater treatment, in food industry, and in healthcare product. As consequence, these NPs are often released into aquatic environments. The Danio rerio (commonly called zebrafish) embryos exposure to TiO2-NPs did not affect the hatching rate, but induced oxidative stress. According to this scenario, in the present study, we first investigated the effects of carnosine exposure and of a sub-toxic administration of TiO2-NPs on the development and survival of zebrafish embryos/larvae measured through the acute embryo toxicity test (FET-Test). Zebrafish larvae represent a useful model to study oxidative stress-linked disorders and to test antioxidant molecules, while carnosine was selected based on its well-known multimodal mechanism of action that includes a strong antioxidant activity. Once the basal effects of carnosine were assessed, we then evaluated its effects on TiO2-NPs-induced oxidative stress in zebrafish larvae, measured in terms of total ROS production (measured with 2,7-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate probe) and protein expression by immunohistochemistry of two cellular stress markers, 70 kDa-heat shock protein (Hsp70) and metallothioneins (MTs). We demonstrated that carnosine did not alter the phenotypes of both embryos and larvae of zebrafish at different hours post fertilization. Carnosine was instead able to significantly decrease the enhancement of ROS levels in zebrafish larvae exposed to TiO2-NPs and its antioxidant effect was paralleled by the rescue of the protein expression levels of Hsp70 and MTs. Our results suggest a therapeutic potential of carnosine as a new pharmacological tool in the context of pathologies characterized by oxidative stress such as neurodegenerative disorders.