bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic analyses of milk production among members and non-members offarmer collectives in Saurashtra
Authors: Chaudhary Udita , Malhotra Ravinder
Published: October 2022

Primary data collected for 2019-â€˜20 from 416 members and non-members of dairy farmer collectives (where farmers come together to market their milk collectively â€“ this study considers a co-operative union and a milk producer company â€“ both prominent forms of farmer collectives) in Saurashtra region of Gujarat are used to work-out the cost and returns in milk production from local cow and buffalo, and across dairy farmer categories. The analyses reveal that farmer collective organizations like co-operatives and producer companies are profitable in case of both local cow and buffalo milk production, and also for the small (1-3) and medium (3-6) herd-size category (in Standard Animal Units or SAU) of farmers. Both the overall average feed cost and Total Variable cost (TVC) per animal per day incurred by members is 12 per cent and 11 per cent less than that of non-members, respectively. Members of the co-operative receive annual bonus and members of the producer company receive annual dividends and cash incentives; with this additional benefit received by the members, their total return per litre is 25 per cent more than that of non-members. The overall average annual net returns from dairy per household for members are higher at Rs. 11,641/- compared to the returns of non-members at Rs. 3955/-. Expanding the reach of farmer collective organizations would benefit more dairy farmers by making dairy a more profitable enterprise for them.
Optimization studies on mixing of curd and ingredients during Lassi (StirredCurd) manufacturing
Authors: Datir Rupesh Prabhudas , Ravindra Menon Rekha , Manjunatha M , Sharma Monika , Tellabati Rajasekhar
Published: October 2022

Consumption of the fermented milk is on the rise due to its therapeutic benefits to human health. Several processes and technologies evolved to further enrich the fermented foods. In the present study, an Indian fermented milk product Lassi (sweet stirred curd) was selected for the experimental trials and optimized for the different process conditions. Lassi was prepared by adding sugar and water in curd and mixing them in the prefabricated mixing vessel. Three different impellers were tested in the preparation of Lassi. Two independent factors, namely off-bottom clearance (OBC) and impeller speed (IS) were selected to optimize the process conditions to yield a uniform good quality product. The quality of the finished product was assessed by sensorial and rheological attributes. Performance of the impeller was estimated by evaluating the mixing time, mixing index and power consumption. Three levels of OBC (3, 6, 9 cm) and IS (300, 400, 500 rpm) respectively were selected. Experiments were designed as per response surface methodology and accordingly trials were conducted. Constraints were optimized by setting up the goal for each of them. Based upon the solutions provided by the software, the product was prepared keeping the impeller positioned at 4.8 cm OBC and rotational speed of 389 rpm. The prepared product was validated against the experimental values and found no significant difference between theoretical and experimental values. Results indicated that the multivane churn impeller was found to be suitable for the preparation of good quality lassi. Mixing time and power consumption were optimized at 160Â±17.32 and 34.21Â±0.70, respectively. Overall acceptability of the product was 8.16Â±0.153 on 9-point hedonic scale. It can be concluded that the developed unit and impeller was able to deliver a uniform quality product with minimum mixing time and power consumption.
Studies on the organoleptic perception of different flavours and consumeracceptance of desiccated Chhana-murki
Authors: Arora Shalini , Patel Ashok A , Sindhu Ritu , Yadav Upasana , Singh Tarun Pal , Chaudhary Gaurav
Published: October 2022

Chhana-murki is a traditional Indian nutritious dairy product manufactured by heat desiccation of paneer cubes in sugar syrup. The flavor of milk product is a key aspect that promotes its marketability. An attempt was made to add different flavors viz., Rose, pineapple, butterscotch and elaichi at different levels to enhance the likability of the formulated product. It was observed that scores for different flavors and their levels (rose and pineapple) differ significantly with rose flavored rated the maximum flavor score (8.00). The physico-chemical parameters of desiccated chhana-murki were nearer to the most favoured market sample, the values for moisture content, fat, protein, lactose, sucrose and ash content were 15.77, 15.10, 14.12, 1.41, 52.42 and 1.10 %, respectively. Further, consumer acceptance study was conducted with 180 randomly selected probable respondents and 50% consumer rated the product excellent and 51.1% consumers were willing to purchase even at a cost higher than the market price. This evidently specifies the excellent marketing potential of the developed flavored chhana-murki and the standardized technology may possibly be utilized for its upgradation at industrial scale.
Economic analysis of different milk products manufacture at farms in PunjabState
Authors: Kaur Harpreet , Kaur Inderpreet , Singhand Varinder Pal , Wakchaure Nitin S.
Published: October 2022

Value addition has particular importance for dairy producers in especially where the producers have limited access to the raw milk market or where the value of milk is economically less than the value of value-added milk and milk products. Keeping in view the benefits of the value addition of milk, the present study was designed to assess the economic feasibility of the value addition of milk at farm level which could be considered as the best alternative in order to sustain and increase the income level of the dairy farmers. Out of total 50 farm households, 19 small farmers, 16 medium farmers and 15 large farmers selected from 8 districts of Punjab in 2018-19. Out of total 50 farm households, the maximum number i.e. 15 (30 per cent) farm households engaged in manufacturing dahi, followed by lassi and ghee (30 per cent). Each 22 per cent of the sample households were involved in manufacturing paneer and khoya. Season-wise most of the medium farmers in the summer season and large farmers in the winter season utilized liquid milk for the preparation of value-added milk products. The value addition of milk could be generated about 62 per cent more income as against the sale of liquid milk on small farmers, while medium and large producers earned 68.67 and 58.88 per cent more income from the value addition of milk as against the sale of liquid milk. The value addition of milk has been generating higher income than that of the sale of liquid milk and therefore, the study strongly recommends the value addition of milk at the farm level for earning sustaining income from dairy farming in the Punjab state.
Thermal and electrical energy analysis of scraped surface heat exchangerduring Kheer making
Authors: Jain Sapna , Kartikeyan S , Purohit P , Bhadania AG , Agrawal AK , Sahu C
Published: October 2022

Kheer is a cereal based sweetened and concentrated milk confection, very well-liked in India. The present investigation was undertaken to study the energy consumption of the developed batch type scraped surface heat exchanger (SSHE) for kheer making. The kheer was prepared by using SSHE at different levels of steam pressure (1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 kg/cm2), scraper speed (10, 20 and 30 rpm) and batch size (10, 15 and 20 kg). The thermal and electrical energy consumptions were determined. The rate of evaporation increased with increase in operating variables. The average rate of evaporation ranged from 11.84 to 25.65 kg water evaporated/h. The specific steam consumption by the SSHE during kheer making ranged between 1.568 and 1.702 kg steam/kg of water evaporated under different operating conditions of the machine. The total heat losses during manufacture of kheer in SSHE ranged from 12.9 to 18.9 %.Â The electrical power consumption of the machine during manufacturing of kheer varied from 230.1 to 260.5 W.
Effect of parity on back fat thickness, body condition score and milk yield in Jerseycrossbred cows of lower Gangetic region
Authors: Paul Abhishek , Bhakat Champak , Mondal Santu , Mandal Ajoy
Published: October 2022

The present experiment was carried out to know the effect of parities on body score, back fat thickness and milk yield of Jersey crossbred cows. A total of 43 crossbred jersey cattle were examined for 120 days postpartum and divided into four groups, based on their parity number. Correlation and relationship study has revealed significant effect of parity on various parameters. The overall correlation coefficient between BCS and BFT were found to be 54%, 92%, 94% and 90% for P1, P2, P3 and P4 respectively. However, positive to negative significant correlation between BFT and milk yield by parity 1,2,3,4 were 46%, 26%, -10% and -12% respectively. Increased BCS at calving was associated with greater MY in first and second parity cows, and reduced MY in cows of third parity or greater. Furthermore, the correlation coefficient between BFT and BW were found to be low in P1 (r=0.58) and high in P4 (r=0.78). The changes in body fat thickness (BFT) and body weight (BW) by parity difference were most distinct in younger cows i.e. -47.92 percent and -12.05 percent respectively. Relationship (RÂ²) between BFT and BCS in different parity group were 0.29, 0.87, 0.85 and 0.83 respectively (p<0.001). Finally, in case of primiparous cow BFT is valid for estimation of subcutaneous fat and second parity onwards BCS can be adopted to predict the body fat reserve of crossbred animals.
Moisture sorption characteristics of Mohanthal, a chickpea flour (besan) basedtraditional dairy product
Authors: Chaudhary MB , Jayaraj Rao K , Ashok Asha
Published: October 2022

Moisture sorption characteristics of Mohanthal, a traditional dairy product from Gujarat were investigated at temperature of 5â€“45 Â°C and water activities (aw) of 0.11â€“0.97. The sorption isotherms obtained were sigmoid in nature. Nine different mathematical models were found to effectively describe the moisture sorption data on the basis of regression analyses and goodness of fit. Each model was statistically evaluated by means of percent root mean square and coefficient of determination. The GAB model gave the best fit in the entire range of aw. Temperature dependence of the GAB constants and good fit were determined. Using Caurieâ€™s model, the properties of sorbed water such as monolayer moisture content, number of adsorbed monolayers, density of sorbed water, bound water content and surface area of adsorption which decreased with an increase in temperature, were calculated. The monolayer moisture content ranged from 1.82 to 6.25 g/100 g solids in Mohanthal.
Non genetic factors affecting udder type traits in Sahiwal cattle
Authors: Oshin Ms. , Deb S M , Kadyan Sagar , Nandhini PB , Kumar Sushil
Published: October 2022

The present study was planned to find out the magnitude of environmental factors affecting udder type traits in Sahiwal cattle. Fourteen type of udder traits were measured for each of randomly selected 100 lactating cattle maintained at Livestock Research farm, NDRI, Karnal, India. The data were analysed by least squares methods using the general linear model procedures including parity, stage of lactation and season of calving at classification as fixed effects. Traits viz. Udder balance, Rear Udder Height, Teat Diameter, Teat Length, Central Ligament, Udder Circumference, Udder Width and Teat Circumference were significantly (p<0.05) affected by parity. Stage of lactation was significant (P<0.05) source of variation for Shortest distance from teat ends to floor, Rear Udder Height, Central ligament and Udder Circumference while season of calving significantly (p<0.05) affected Rear Udder Height, Teat Length and Rear Udder Width. It is, therefore, suggested that in breeding value estimation for udder conformation, these environmental factors should be considered which would justify focusing genetic improvement in Sahiwal cattle.
Non - genetic factors affecting milk composition traits and association of milkquality parameters with udder and teat type traits of Sahiwal and Karan Friescows
Authors: Sharma Nisha , D Revanasiddu , Kumar Sushil , Sinha Beena , Kumari Ragini , Sinha Rebeka , Gupta ID , Verma Archana
Published: October 2022

The study was carried out to determine the effect of season of calving, stage of lactation and parity on 207 cattle compromising of Sahiwal (107) and Karan Fries cattle (100) of different parities and lactation stages.In Karan Fries cows, Season had significant effect on all milk composition traits viz., average test day milk yield (ATDMY), average test day fat yield (ATDFY), average test day solid not fat yield (ATDSNFY), average test day protein percentage (ATDP%) and average test day lactose yield (ATDLY). In Sahiwal cows, parity had non-significant effect on all milk composition traits whereas, in Karan Fries cows, parity had significant effect on milk composition traits viz., ATDMY, ATDFY, ATDSNFY, ATDP%, ATDLY and average test day protein yield (ATDPY). In Sahiwal cows, Season had non-significant effect on all milk composition traits whereas, in Karan Fries cows (KF) had significant effect on milk composition traits viz., ATDMY, ATDFY, ATDSNFY, ATDP% and ATDLY in Karan Fries cows. In Sahiwal cows, parity had non-significant effect on all milk composition traits whereas in Karan Fries cows, parity had significant effect on milk composition traits viz., ATDMY, ATDFY, ATDSNFY, ATDP%, ATDLY and ATDPY. The phenotypic correlation between udder and teat type traits and composition were low in magnitude. It can be concluded that changing patterns of milk composition with different seasons and parities provide scientific evidence to improve the nutrition management.
Biomechanical evaluation of lumbar spondylolysis repair with various fixation options: A finite element analysis
Authors: Ye Yuchen , Jin Shichang , Zou Yang , Fang Yuekun , Xu Panpan , Zhang Zhili , Wu Nan , Zhang Changchun
Published: October 2022

Objective: This study was designed to compare the biomechanical properties of lumbar spondylolysis repairs using different fixation methods by using three-dimensional finite element analysis.

Methods: Five finite element models (A, B, C, D, and E) of L4-S1 vertebral body were reconstructed by CT images of a male patient (A: intact model; B: spondylolysis model; C: spondylolysis model with intrasegmental direct fixation by Buck screw; D: spondylolysis model with intersegmental indirect fixation by pedicle screw system; E: spondylolysis model with hybrid internal fixation). L5-S1 level was defined as the operative level. After the intact model was verified, six physiological motion states were simulated by applying 500 N concentrated force and 10 Nm torque on the upper surface of L4. The biomechanical properties of the three different internal fixation methods were evaluated by comparing the range of motion (ROM), maximum stress, and maximum displacement.

Results: Compared with Model B, the ROM and maximum displacement of Model C, D, and E decreased. The maximum stress on L5/S1 disc in models A, B, and C was much higher than that in Model D and E under extension and lateral bending conditions. Under axial rotation and lateral bending conditions, the maximum stress of interarticular muscle and internal fixation system in Model B and Model C was significantly higher than that in Model D and Model E. In contrast to Model D, the stress in Model E was distributed in two internal fixation systems.

Conclusion: In several mechanical comparisons, hybrid fixation had better biomechanical properties than other fixation methods. The experimental results show that hybrid fixation can stabilize the isthmus and reduce intervertebral disc stress, which making it the preferred treatment for lumbar spondylolysis.
Construction and osteogenic effects of 3D-printed porous titanium alloy loaded with VEGF/BMP-2 shell-core microspheres in a sustained-release system
Authors: Liu Zheng , Xu Zhenchao , Wang Xiyang , Zhang Yilu , Wu Yunqi , Jiang Dingyu , Jia Runze
Published: October 2022

The repair and reconstruction of bone defects remain a challenge in orthopedics. The present study offers a solution to this problem by developing a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) shell-core microspheres loaded on 3D-printed porous titanium alloy via gelatin coating to prepare a titanium-alloy microsphere scaffold release system. The composite scaffold was characterized via scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy disperse spectroscopy (EDS), and the effect of the composite scaffold on the adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation of osteoblasts were determined in vitro. Furthermore, a rabbit femoral defect model was established to verify the effect of the composite scaffold on osteogenesis and bone formation in vivo. The results demonstrated that the composite scaffold could release VEGF and BMP-2 sequentially. Meanwhile, the composite scaffold significantly promoted osteoblast adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation (p < 0.05) compared to pure titanium alloy scaffolds in vitro. Furthermore, the composite scaffold can exhibit significant osteogenic differentiation (p < 0.05) than gelatin-coated titanium alloy scaffolds. The in vivo X-rays demonstrated that the implanted scaffolds were in a good position, without inflammation and infection. Micro-CT and quantitative results of new bone growth illustrated that the amount of new bone in the composite scaffold is significantly higher than that of the gelatin-coated and pure titanium alloy scaffolds (p < 0.05). Similarly, the fluorescence labeling and V-G staining of hard tissue sections indicated that the bone integration capacity of the composite scaffold was significantly higher than the other two groups (p < 0.05). This research suggests that VEGF/BMP-2 shell-core microspheres loaded on 3D-printed titanium alloy porous scaffold through gelatin hydrogel coating achieved the sequential release of VEGF and BMP-2. Most importantly, the in vitro and in vivo study findings have proven that the system could effectively promote osteogenic differentiation and osseointegration.
Lignocellulosic xylitol production from corncob using engineered Kluyveromycesmarxianus
Authors: Zhang Jia , Xu Teng , Wang Xiaohang , Jing Xiaoyan , Zhang Jia , Hong Jiong , Xu Jian , Wang Jichao
Published: October 2022

Xylitol production from lignocellulose hydrolysate is a sustainable and environment-friendly process. In this study, a systematic process of converting corncob waste into xylitol is described. First, the corncobs are hydrolyzed with acid to a hydrolysate. Second, Kluyveromyces marxianus YZJQ016 derived from K. marxianus YZJ074, constructed by overexpressing ScGAL2-N376F from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, CtXYL1 from Candida tropicalis, and KmZWF1 from K. marxianus, produces xylitol from the hydrolysate. A total of ten xylose reductase genes were evaluated, and CtXYL1 proved best by showing the highest catalytic activity under the control of the KmGAPDH promoter. A 5 L fermenter at 42°C produced 105.22 g/L xylitol using K. marxianus YZJQ016—the highest production reported to date from corncob hydrolysate. Finally, for crystallization of the xylitol, the best conditions were 50% (v/v) methanol as an antisolvent, at 25°C, with purity and yield of 99%–100% and 74%, respectively—the highest yield reported to date.
Application of photo-responsive metal-organic framework in cancer therapy and bioimaging
Authors: Zhao Yujie , Jiang Xian , Liu Xu , Liu Xinyu , Liu Zhihui , Liu Xiaowei
Published: October 2022

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are a class of hybrid porous crystalline materials that are assembled with metal ions/clusters and organic linkers. The fungibility of organic ligands and metal centers endow MOFs that are easy to design and synthesize. Based on their unique structure, multifarious MOFs with diverse functionalities have recently been widely applied in various research areas. Particularly striking is the application of photo-responsive MOFs in biological sensing and imaging. Notably, the photoelectronic properties make photo-responsive MOFs an ideal platform for cancer phototherapy. Moreover, ultrahigh porosities and tunable pore sizes allow MOFs to load anticancer drugs, further enhancing the antitumor efficiency. In this review, the categories and developing strategies of MOFs are briefly introduced. The application fields of MOFs in bioimaging, such as up-conversion fluorescence imaging, single/two-photon fluorescence bioimaging, magnetic resonance imaging, etc., are summarized. The working mechanism of MOFs in photo-responsive, photothermal therapy (PTT), and photodynamic therapy (PDT) are expounded. Examples of using MOFs for cancer treatment, including PTT, PDT, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, are also demonstrated. Lastly, current limitations, challenges, and future perspectives for bioimaging and cancer treatment of MOFs are discussed. We believe that the versatile MOF will bring the dawn to the next generation of cancer treatment.
Application of Soft Computing for Estimation of Pavement Condition Indicators and Predictive Modeling
Authors: Hanandeh Shadi , Hanandeh Ahmad , Alhiary Mohammad , Al Twaiqat Mohammad
Published: October 2022

The pavement management system is recognized as an assertive discipline that works on pavement indices to predict the pavement performance condition. This study used soft computing methods such as genetic algorithms and artificial intelligence to propose a modern generation of pavement indices for road networks in Jordan. The datasets used in this study were collected from multiple roads in Jordan, and 128 data points were used in this study. The input variables are the pavement condition index (PCI) and the international roughness index (IRI) in the artificial neural network (ANN) and gene expression programming (GEP) models. The output variable is the pavement serviceability rate (PSR). The results show an efficient performance benefit of using these techniques. In addition, the ANN and GEP models were able to predict the output variable with a reasonable accuracy, where the ANN model has an R2 value of 0.95, 0.87, and 0.98 for the PCI, IRI, and PSR, respectively. The (R2) values of the GEP model are 0.94, 0.89, and 0.99 for PCI, IRI, and PSR, respectively.
Semiconductor-metal-semiconductor TiO2@Au/g-C3N4 interfacial heterojunction for high performance Z-scheme photocatalyst
Authors: Hong Tingkai , Anwer Shoaib , Wu Ju , Deng Chonghai , Qian Hongmei
Published: October 2022

We designed an edge-sites 2D/0D/2D based TiO2@Au/g-C3N4 Z-scheme photocatalytic system consists of highly exposed (001) TNSs@Au edge-site heterojunction, and the Au/g-C3N4 interfacial heterojunction. The designed photocatalyst was prepared by a facile and controlled hydrothermal synthesis strategy via in-situ nanoclusters-to-nanoparticles deposition technique and programable calcination in N2 atmosphere to get edge-site well-crystalline interface, followed by chemically bonded thin overlay of g-C3N4. Photocatalytic performance of the prepared TNSs@Au/g-C3N4 catalyst was evaluated by the photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants in water under visible light irradiation. The results obtained from structural and chemical characterization conclude that the inter-facet junction between highly exposed (001) and (101) TNSs surface, and TNSs@Au interfacial heterojunction formed by a direct contact between highly crystalline TNSs and Au, are the key factors to enhance the separation efficiency of photogenerated electrons/holes. On coupling with overlay of g-C3N4 2D NSs synergistically offer tremendous reactive sites for the potential photocatalytic dye degradation in the Z-scheme photocatalyst. Particularly in the designed photocatalyst, Au nanoparticles accumulates and transfer the photo-stimulated electrons originated from anatase TNSs to g-C3N4via semiconductor-metal heterojunction. Because of the large exposed reactive 2D surface, overlay g-C3N4 sheets not only trap photoelectrons, but also provide a potential platform for increased adsorption capacities for organic contaminants. This work establishes a foundation for the development of high-performance Z-scheme photocatalytic systems.
Pattern recognition receptor signaling and innate immune responses to schistosome infection
Authors: Dibo Nouhoum , Liu Xianshu , Chang Yunfeng , Huang Shuaiqin , Wu Xiang
Published: October 2022

Schistosomiasis remains to be a significant public health problem in tropical and subtropical regions. Despite remarkable progress that has been made in the control of the disease over the past decades, its elimination remains a daunting challenge in many countries. This disease is an inflammatory response-driven, and the positive outcome after infection depends on the regulation of immune responses that efficiently clear worms and allow protective immunity to develop. The innate immune responses play a critical role in host defense against schistosome infection and pathogenesis. Initial pro-inflammatory responses are essential for clearing invading parasites by promoting appropriate cell-mediated and humoral immunity. However, elevated and prolonged inflammatory responses against the eggs trapped in the host tissues contribute to disease progression. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of innate immune responses is important for developing effective therapies and vaccines. Here, we update the recent advances in the definitive host innate immune response to schistosome infection, especially highlighting the critical roles of pattern recognition receptors and cytokines. The considerations for further research are also provided.
Influence of social media on fear of sharks, perceptions of intentionality associated with shark bites, and shark management preferences
Authors: Casola William R. , Beall Justin M. , Peterson M. Nils , Larson Lincoln R. , Price Carol S.
Published: October 2022

Sharks, a critical component of marine ecosystems, represent one of the most threatened taxa globally. Shark conservation efforts are constrained by public fear and misperceptions. Positive social media-based outreach may provide one cost effective means to reduce fear of sharks and change misperceptions about shark bite intentionality. Using framing theory, which suggests that the ways in which information is presented influences how it is processed and the changes in perceptions that result from it, we experimentally evaluated impacts of positively and negatively framed YouTube videos on fear of sharks and perceptions of shark bite intentionality among participants from the coastal state of North Carolina (NC), USA in Spring 2020. Respondents took a pre-test, followed by a randomly assigned positive or negative video treatment consisting of ~15 min of shark week videos. Pre/post-test comparisons suggest positive YouTube content decreased fright by 24%, perceived danger by 27%, and perception of shark bite intentionality by 29%, whereas negatively framed media did the opposite. Positively framed media resulted in fewer respondents blaming shark bites on sharks, and resulted in more respondents blaming swimmers or no one. Positively framed media decreased support for lethal responses to shark bites, such as shark nets, hunting down sharks that bite people, and drum lines. The positive treatment increased support for responding with research, leaving the shark alone, and education. Negatively framed media decreased support for responding by leaving the shark alone or doing nothing and increased support for some lethal responses to shark bites (i.e., drum lines and hunting down sharks). When positive and negative treatments had different effect sizes, the positive treatments tended to be more impactful. Collectively these results suggest social media may be a valuable tool for leveraging the power of communication to promote shark conservation.
A values-based approach to knowledge in the public's representations of climate change on social media
Authors: Fage-Butler Antoinette
Published: October 2022

This paper supports recent calls for research programs that explore the public's online representations of their knowledge of science-related topics, and argues that a useful line of inquiry in such a program would be to investigate how values are communicated in the public's construction of their knowledge of climate change on social media. A values-based approach to public knowledge broadens the concept of knowledge from being a cognitive and quantifiable attribute that the public may be expected to have less of than experts. In so doing, it captures more holistic aspects of public epistemologies, and acknowledges that climate change is an emotive and normative issue. This paper connects such a future line of inquiry with the concept of the public's climate “imaginaries” and proposes a number of qualitative methods for analyzing the public's communication of knowledge/values on social media.
External validation of the MidiCAT variant of thrombography: Comparison with calibrated automated thrombography and study of the centrifugation scheme
Authors: Charles Sebastien , Guyotat Denis , Fontana Pierre , Tardy Bernard , Lecompte Thomas , Chalayer Emilie
Published: October 2022

Introduction

To perform Calibrated Automated Thrombography (CAT), the use of reduced plasma volumes (referred to as “MidiCAT”) makes it possible to more efficiently use limited volumes of valuable biobanked plasma samples and decreases expenses for reagents. It is, however, unclear whether the MidiCAT procedure is suitable when thrombin generation (TG) is studied in the presence of added thrombomodulin (TG-TM). Moreover, a simplified centrifugation scheme would facilitate biobanking, if appropriate, for more sensitive coagulation studies. We aimed to compare the results of “MidiCAT” (halved plasma and reagent volumes) with those from regular CAT, in the absence or presence of TM, as well as to study the impact of a single-centrifugation scheme for plasma preparation before freezing.

Materials and methods

Plasma samples were prepared from the citrated blood from 20 Geneva hospital diverse patients without gross coagulation abnormalities with a single- or double-centrifugation scheme. Samples were kept frozen at −80°C and thawed just before the TG assay in duplicate under two conditions: 1 pM tissue factor (TF) or 5 pM TF + TM.

Results and discussion

(1) We externally validated “MidiCAT” and also extended the validation to TG-TM. Whatever the method (CAT or MidiCAT), intra-assay (assessed with duplicates) CV was below 6% (1 pM TF) or below 10% (5 pM TF + TM) for ETP. Agreement between the MidiCAT and CAT results was satisfactory; the p coefficients were above 0.95 for ETP and above 0.90 for most other parameters; biases for ETP were +10.0% (1 pM FT) and +13.5% (5 pM + TM). (2) The centrifugation scheme markedly affected the results obtained in the presence of TM, whereas the bias and limit of agreement (difference plots) were low for the no TM condition. The bias in the presence of TM was obvious, more marked with plasma samples sensitive to TM when double centrifuged: the lower the ETP-TM, the greater the relative difference between the ETP-TM of plasma samples prepared with just single centrifugation and the reference plasma samples. Thus, a single-centrifugation procedure, as is often used for plasma biobanking, is suitable for TG study only if it is not performed in the presence of TM.
Gamification improves antidepressant effects of cognitive control training—A pilot trial
Authors: Weller Simone , Schroeder Philipp A. , Plewnia Christian
Published: October 2022

Objective

Computerised cognitive trainings have been put forward to improve control over negatively biased information processing and associated depressive symptomatology. Yet, disease-related impairments of motivation and endurance, as well as insufficient accessibility hinder use of this promising therapeutic opportunity. Here, we developed an app (de:)press©) that utilizes a cognitive control training (paced auditory serial addition task) enriched with gamification and information elements. We compared a six-week training with de:)press© to a non-gamified version (active control group).

Methods

Thirty-two depressed participants were included. Each received either de:)press© or the non-gamified version and was instructed to train three times per week for two weeks. Afterwards (four weeks) they were free to train at their own discretion. Depression severity was assessed during training and two follow-up sessions. Primary endpoint was defined as difference between groups [change of Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS)] four weeks after end of training.

Results

Depression severity decreased in both groups. At primary endpoint, MADRS scores were significantly lower in the de:)press©-group compared to the control group. No differences were observed at three months' follow-up. Intervention usability was consistently rated positively. Participants who had trained with de:)press© maintained the recommended training frequency without further prompting. Besides transient fatigue or frustration, no adverse effects were observed.

Conclusion

This pilot demonstrates that gamification and information elements can substantially increase cognitive control training efficacy in alleviating depressive symptoms. Moreover, it provides first evidence for the feasibility and efficacy of de:)press© as an add-on intervention to treat depression.

Clinical trial registration

The study is registered under ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT04400162.
Influence of performance in Spanish language and literature on physical education and music grades
Authors: Clares-Clares Esperanza , Gómez-Mármol Alberto
Published: October 2022

The aim of this research was to analyze the influence of performance in the subject of Spanish language and literature on the grades in the subjects of Physical Education and Music and whether there were differences by sex or not. The participating sample was made up by a total of 451 students (235 boys and 216 girls), aged between 10 and 13 years old, in the fifth and sixth grades of Primary Education. The results show, on the one hand, a positive correlation between the grades of the three subjects and, on the other hand, in terms of gender, significant differences only in the subject of Music whose grades are higher in girls compared to boys. Nevertheless, these statements should be considered taking into account that academic performance was measured only with one instrument ant that the sample, besides being limited in size, was accessed with a non-probabilistic method. Based on these results, it is suggested that future studies could encompass different research methodologies and include, in turn, new variables as well as other collectives which are also concerned with this regard.
Brain imaging provides insights about the interaction between instruction and diagram use for mathematical word problem solving
Authors: Ayabe Hiroaki , Manalo Emmanuel , Hanaki Noriko , Fujita Hiroyo , Nomura Michio
Published: October 2022

Diagram use is generally considered an effective strategy in solving mathematical word problems, and many teachers demonstrate the use of this strategy when they are teaching. Despite such demonstrations, however, the majority of students evidence poor, ineffective use of diagrams in problem solving. This may be due to a lack of task-appropriate instruction, but to date, there is inadequate evidence to support this idea. Therefore, the present study aimed to better understand the development of diagram use competence following the provision of task-appropriate instruction, focusing on both behavioral and neurophysiological evidence (i.e., brain activity, using functional near-infrared spectroscopy or fNIRS). Sixteen participants (mean age 15.7 years) were asked to solve mathematical word problems for which the use of tables (which is one kind of diagram) was deemed effective. Data collection progressed in three phases: (1) Pre-test without the demand for diagram use, (2) Pre-test with demand to use a table, and (3) Post-test (after participants received instruction on table use for problem solving). Although table use increased in Phase 2, it was only in Phase 3 that such use led to increases in correct answers. In Phase 3, fNIRS measurements also indicated an increase in blood flow to the frontal area (DLPFC and VLPFC) of the brain usually associated with working memory activity. These results demonstrate important neurophysiological changes resulting from task-appropriate instruction that promotes effective strategy use and improves learning performance.
A critical analysis of the current TNM classification for differentiated thyroid carcinoma in young patients: Time for a change?
Authors: Wang Wenlong , Bai Ning , Li Xinying
Published: October 2022

Background

The current TNM classification that simply classifies differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) patients younger than 55 years into stage I and stage II based on the presence or absence of distant metastases has been questioned. In this study, we reexamined the impact of T status and N status on prognosis and then developed a new prediction model to improve the predictability of cancer-specific survival (CSS) in young patients.

Materials and methods

Kaplan–Meier method was applied to calculate the CSS. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the impact of T status and N status on CSS after adjustment for known covariates. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), C-index, Bayesian information criterion (BIC), and Akaike information criterion (AIC) were calculated to compare model performance.

Results

A total of 9,242 DTC patients younger than 55 years were enrolled in the study. After adjusting for gender, age at diagnosis, race, pathology subtype, N stage, and M stage, T3 disease [hazard ratio (HR): 3.78, P = 0.006] and T4 disease (HR: 7.96, P < 0.001) remain independent predictors of CSS. Similarly, the 10-year CSS rate of N1b disease (HR: 3.78, P < 0.001) was significantly higher than that of N0 disease after adjustment. Moreover, Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed that the 10-year CSS of stage II disease in younger patients with DTC showed a sharp decrease compared with that in older patients with DTC (74.47% vs. 98.43%, P < 0.001). Furthermore, a modified TNM staging system based on significantly prognostic T stage and N stage was established, which showed better performance than the current TNM staging system (P < 0.05). The new prediction model is also applicable to papillary thyroid carcinoma patients and follicular thyroid carcinoma patients.

Conclusions

This is the first study to question the rationality of the current TNM staging system for patients younger than 55 years and successfully develop a new prognostic model, which improves prognostic stratification and guides individualized management.
A bibliometric study of global trends in diabetes and gut flora research from 2011 to 2021
Authors: Zhang Lu , Zhang Hongcai , Xie Quan , Xiong Shuai , Jin Fengchen , Zhou Fan , Zhou Hongjun , Guo Jinhong , Wen Chuanbiao , Huang Biao , Yang Fei , Dong Yuanwei , Xu Ke
Published: October 2022

Background and objectives

Diabetes mellitus is a serious metabolic disease that causes a serious economic burden worldwide. Gut flora is a major component of diabetes research, and the aim of this study was to understand the trends and major components of research related to diabetes and gut flora in the last 11 years.

Methods

We searched the Web of Science Core Collection database for articles on diabetes and gut flora related research from 2011-2021 on July 2, 2022. The literature data were analyzed for country, institution, author, steward, journal, and highly cited literature using Citespace.5.8.R3 and Vosviewer1.6.17.

Results

Finally 4834 articles that met the requirements were included. The overall trend of articles published in the last 11 years is increasing, and the trend of articles published after 2019 is increasing significantly. In total, 109 countries, 4820 institutions, and 23365 authors were involved in the field of research. The highest number of publications was 1262 articles from the United States, the institution with the most publications was the University of Copenhagen with 134 articles, and the author with the most publications was PATRICE D CANI with 52 articles.

Conclusion

The number of studies related to diabetes and intestinal flora is increasing and more and more researchers are involved in this field. Intestinal flora provides a key research direction for the treatment of diabetes. In the future, gut flora will remain the focus of the diabetes field.
Perchlorate, nitrate, and thiocyanate: Environmental relevant NIS-inhibitors pollutants and their impact on thyroid function and human health
Authors: Serrano-Nascimento Caroline , Nunes Maria Tereza
Published: October 2022

Thyroid disruptors are found in food, atmosphere, soil, and water. These contaminants interfere with the thyroid function through the impairment of thyroid hormone synthesis, plasma transport, peripheral metabolism, transport into the target cells, and thyroid hormone action. It is well known that iodide uptake mediated by the sodium-iodide symporter (NIS) is the first limiting step involved in thyroid hormones production. Therefore, it has been described that several thyroid disruptors interfere with the thyroid function through the regulation of NIS expression and/or activity. Perchlorate, nitrate, and thiocyanate competitively inhibit the NIS-mediated iodide uptake. These contaminants are mainly found in food, water and in the smoke of cigarettes. Although the impact of the human exposure to these anions is highly controversial, some studies indicated their deleterious effects in the thyroid function, especially in individuals living in iodine deficient areas. Considering the critical role of thyroid function and the production of thyroid hormones for growth, metabolism, and development, this review summarizes the impact of the exposure to these NIS-inhibitors on thyroid function and their consequences for human health.
The effect of season on Spartina alterniflora identification and monitoring
Authors: Li Yanzhou , Qin Feng , He Yanzhou , Liu Bo , Liu Conghui , Pu Xuejiao , Wan Fanghao , Qiao Xi , Qian Wanqiang
Published: October 2022

The invasion of Spartina alterniflora (S. alterniflora) has resulted in significant losses in the diversity of coastal ecosystems. However, the impact of seasonal changes on the accurate identification of S. alterniflora remains to be explored, which is of great significance due to its early monitoring and warning. In this study, S. alterniflora in Beihai, Guangxi, was selected as the research object. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and deep convolutional neural networks (CNNs) were used to explore the identification of S. alterniflora in different seasons. Through comparative analysis, the ResNet50 model performed well in identifying S. alterniflora, with an F1-score of 96.40%. The phenological characteristics of S. alterniflora differ in different seasons. It is difficult to accurately monitor the annual S. alterniflora using only single-season data. For the monitoring of S. alterniflora throughout the year, the autumn-winter two-season model was selected from the perspective of time cost, the four-season model was selected from the perspective of identification performance, and the three-season model of summer, autumn and winter was selected from the perspective of time cost and identification performance. In addition, a method was developed to predict and evaluate the diffusion trend of S. alterniflora based on time series UAV images. Using the spring data to predict the diffusion trend of S. alterniflora in summer and autumn, the results showed that the highest recall reached 84.28%, the F1-score was higher than 70%, and most of the diffusion of S. alterniflora was correctly predicted. This study demonstrates the feasibility of distinguishing S. alterniflora from native plants in different seasons based on UAV and CNN recognition algorithms. The proposed diffusion early warning method reflects the actual diffusion of S. alterniflora to a certain extent, which is of great significance for the early management of invasive plants in coastal wetlands.
Innovative analysis in climate change: Evidence from developed European countries
Authors: Barykin Sergey , Yadykin Vladimir , Badenko Vladimir , Sergeev Sergey , Bezborodov Andrey , Lavskaya Kristina , Poza Elena de la , Morkovkin Dmitry , Shchukina Tatyana , Veynberg Roman , Rassylnikov Igor , Svechnikova Vera , Muyeen S. M.
Published: October 2022

Since the turn of the 20th century, the whole world entered a period of technological singularity. It is also predicted that the pace of innovation regarding problems associated with climate change, generational change of technologies will constantly increase. This paper aims to bring an innovative product to the market regarding subsequent economical and social strategy. The methodology is based on a dynamic assessment of the development of consumer demand in the context of innovative proposals. In the article, results are obtained and the volume of investments in the development of innovations is determined, which optimizes the balance between curtailing the volume of output using the previous technology in climate change and increasing the production and sale of an innovative product in climate change. The novelty of this study is in the panel framework on the base of Model Based System Engineering (MBSE). The study concludes that MBSE are more sensitive to innovative activity. The volume of investments in the development of innovations is determined. The main result is the total profit from the demand in the consumer market for products based on old and new technologies in climate change, since reformed business processes entail significant financial costs. The above-discussed issues lead to inappropriate misleading policy recommendations. The main recommendation is using disaggregated trade data for each trading partner and industry level to conclude more accurate results and policy recommendations for each trading partner and industry in concern.