bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long access heroin self-administration significantly alters gut microbiome composition and structure
Authors: Greenberg Jonathan M. , Winters Andrew D. , Zagorac Branislava , Kracht David J. , Francescutti Dina M. , Cannella Nazzareno , Ciccocioppo Roberto , Woods Leah C. Solberg , Mackle James , Hardiman Gary T. , Kuhn Brittany N. , Kalivas Peter W. , Kuhn Donald M. , Angoa-Perez Mariana
Published: February 2024

Introduction

It is well known that chronic opioid use disorder is associated with alterations in gastrointestinal (GI) function that include constipation, reduced motility, and increased bacterial translocation due to compromised gut barrier function. These signs of disrupted GI function can be associated with alterations in the gut microbiome. However, it is not known if long-access opioid self-administration has effects on the gut microbiome.

Methods

We used 16S rRNA gene sequencing to investigate the gut microbiome in three independent cohorts (N=40 for each) of NIH heterogeneous stock rats before onset of long-access heroin self-administration (i.e., naïve status), at the end of a 15-day period of self-administration, and after post-extinction reinstatement. Measures of microbial α- and β-diversity were evaluated for all phases. High-dimensional class comparisons were carried out with MaAsLin2. PICRUSt2 was used for predicting functional pathways impacted by heroin based on marker gene sequences.

Results

Community α-diversity was not altered by heroin at any of the three phases by comparison to saline-yoked controls. Analyses of β-diversity showed that the heroin and saline-yoked groups clustered significantly apart from each other using the Bray-Curtis (community structure) index. Heroin caused significant alterations at the ASV level at the self-administration and extinction phases. At the phylum level, the relative abundance of Firmicutes was increased at the self-administration phase. Deferribacteres was decreased in heroin whereas Patescibacteria was increased in heroin at the extinction phase. Potential biomarkers for heroin emerged from the MaAsLin2 analysis. Bacterial metabolomic pathways relating to degradation of carboxylic acids, nucleotides, nucleosides, carbohydrates, and glycogen were increased by heroin while pathways relating to biosynthesis of vitamins, propionic acid, fatty acids, and lipids were decreased.

Discussion

These findings support the view that long access heroin self-administration significantly alters the structure of the gut microbiome by comparison to saline-yoked controls. Inferred metabolic pathway alterations suggest the development of a microbial imbalance favoring gut inflammation and energy expenditure. Potential microbial biomarkers and related functional pathways likely invoked by heroin self-administration could be targets for therapeutic intervention.
Pandemic fatigue, behavioral intention and predictors of COVID-19 vaccination among individuals living with HIV in Bench Sheko Zone, in Southern Ethiopia, application of TBP: a facility based cross sectional study
Authors: Alie Melsew Setegn , Abebe Gossa Fetene , Negesse Yilkal , Girma Desalegn , Adugna Amanuel
Published: February 2024

Introduction

People living with HIV often face inequalities and negative outcomes, which make them vulnerable. To protect this population and achieve herd immunity, it is crucial for COVID-19 vaccination efforts to prioritize and encourage vaccination among people living with HIV (PLWH). However, in Ethiopia, there is a lack of motivation in this regard. To tackle this issue, a study was conducted in the Bench Sheko Zone of Southwest Ethiopia. The study aimed to assess pandemic fatigue, behavioral intention to get vaccinated, and factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among PLWH in that region.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among individuals living with HIV who were over 18 years old in Bench-Sheko Zone, located in Southwest Ethiopia. The study included a total of 590 participants from four ART healthcare facilities within the zone. The researchers utilized the Theory of Planned Behavior to examine the predictors of intention to use preconception care. Multiple linear regression analysis was employed to determine these predictors, with a p-value of less than 0.05 considered as indicative of a significant association. The final analysis of the study involved the use of linear regression analysis, and the measure of association was presented as the standardized B coefficient following a multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Result

In the conducted study, the response rate was an impressive 98%. The researchers aimed to investigate the behavioral intention toward the COVID-19 vaccine, which was found to be 55.7%. The average age of the participants in the study was 34.65 ± 6.67. The study was the assessment of pandemic fatigue, which had a mean value of 17.22 ± 5.28. During the multivariate linear regression analysis, four predictor variables were identified. Among these, three variables, namely subjective norm, pandemic fatigue, and age, positively influenced the behavioral intention toward the COVID-19 vaccine. Comprehending these factors can assist healthcare professionals and policymakers in formulating precise interventions and strategies aimed at enhancing the acceptance and adoption of vaccines.

Conclusion

The study indicates that individuals living with HIV have shown lower vaccine intention compared to previous research. The study identifies subjective norm, pandemic control measures, income, and age as predictors of individuals’ intention to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
The influence of pharmacist-led collaborative care on clinical outcomes in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a multicenter randomized control trial
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Zahid , Alqahtani Saad Saeed , Mubarak Naeem , Shahid Sara , Mohammed Rafiuddin , Mustafa Abid , Khan Amer Hayat , Iqbal Muhammad Shahid
Published: February 2024

Background

Health care providers are mandated to deliver specialized care for the treatment and control of type 2 diabetes mellitus. In Malaysia, Diabetes Medication Therapy Adherence Clinics (DMTAC) in tertiary hospitals have designated pharmacists to administer these services.

Objective

To assess the effects of pharmacist-led interventions within DMTAC on the outcomes of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in two distinct hospitals in Kedah, Malaysia.

Methods

Patients with type 2 diabetes were randomly selected from the two hospitals included in this study. The study population was divided into two equal groups. The control group consisted of 200 patients receiving routine care from the hospitals. On the other hand, the intervention group included those patients with type 2 diabetes (200), who received separate counseling sessions from pharmacists in the DMTAC departments along with the usual treatment. The study lasted 1 year, during which both study groups participated in two distinct visits.

Results

Parametric data were analyzed by a paired t-test and one-way ANOVA, while non-parametric data were analyzed by a Chi-squared test using SPSS v24. A p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The study presented the results of a greater reduction in HBA1c levels in the intervention group compared to the control group, i.e., 3.59 and 2.17% (p < 0.001). Moreover, the Systolic and Diastolic values of BP were also significantly reduced in the intervention group, i.e., 9.29 mmHg/7.58 mmHg (p < 0.005). Furthermore, cholesterol levels were significantly improved in patients in the intervention group, i.e., 0.87 mmol/L (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Based on the findings of the current study it has been proven that the involvement of pharmacists leads to improved control of diabetes mellitus. Therefore, it is recommended that the government initiate DMTAC services in both private and government hospitals and clinics throughout Malaysia. Furthermore, future studies should assess the impact of pharmacist interventions on other chronic conditions, including but not limited to asthma, arthritis, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia.
Salient beliefs related to secondary distribution of COVID-19 self-test kits within social networks
Authors: Bien-Gund Cedric H. , Sarbaugh Molly , Perrine Lily , Dugosh Karen , Gross Robert , Fishman Jessica
Published: February 2024

Background

Widespread access to testing is critical to public health efforts to control the COVID-19 pandemic. Secondary distribution of COVID-19 self-test kits, where an individual distributes test kits to others in their social networks, is a potential strategy to improve access to testing. In this qualitative study, we identified salient beliefs about distributing and accepting COVID-19 self-test kits within one’s social network, as well as ordering COVID-19 self-test kits from the government.

Methods

We recruited 61 participants from a randomized controlled trial (NCT04797858) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to elicit beliefs about (1) distributing COVID-19 self-test kits within one’s social network, (2) receiving test kits from social contacts, and (3) ordering self-test kits from the government. Using validated, open-ended question stems, we identified the most common set of beliefs underlying attitudes, perceived norms (or social referents), and perceived behavioral control (or self-efficacy) toward each of these behaviors.

Results

Twenty-seven out of 30 (90%) of participants who received self-test kits reported distributing the kits to social contacts. These participants described altruistic beliefs about giving others access to testing, and felt approval from family members, friends, and others in their social networks. When receiving test kits from social network contacts, participants described advantages of test kit convenience, but some voiced concern about test kit tampering and confusing instructions. Participants also described perceived logistic barriers to distributing and receiving self-test kits, such as delivering or transporting test kits, or finding time to meet. Participants who ordered test kits from the government also described increased convenience of test access, but described different logistic barriers such as delays in test kit delivery, or not receiving test kits at all.

Conclusion

In comparison with government-ordered test kits, the secondary distribution of COVID-19 self-test kits raised unique concerns about test kit quality and instructions, as well as distinctive logistic barriers related to distributing self-test kits to network contacts, which were not raised for test kits ordered from the government. This study demonstrates that beliefs may vary depending on the type of testing behavior, and behavioral interventions may benefit from developing messages tailored to specific testing strategies.
The impact of HIV self-testing on risk behaviors among men who have sex with men: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Su Rong , Liu Yi , Li Peilong , Ge Lin , Liao Meizhen , Fu Yong , Song Xin , Shan Duo , Tang Houlin , Li Dongmin
Published: February 2024

Background

Men who have sex with men (MSM) have a high prevalence of HIV and a low rate of HIV testing in China. HIV self-testing (HIVST) presents a viable strategy for expanding HIV testing among MSM. However, the impact of HIVST on risk behaviors among MSM remains controversial. Our study sought to ascertain this impact.

Methods

From April 2021 to January 2022, a mixed-methods study was conducted in Qingdao City, employing both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. The quantitative component entailed a cohort study among MSM who had used HIVST. Generalized estimating equations fitting Poisson regressions were used to analyze the changes in risk behaviors of MSM in short time after HIVST (ST-HIVST) and longer time after HIVST (LT-HIVST) compared to before HIVST. Subsequently, we conducted in-depth interviews with 18 MSM who completed the follow-up to delve deeper into the impact of HIVST on MSM.

Results

A total of 410 MSM were recruited in the cohort, of whom 83 were lost to follow-up. Compared to before HIVST, there were no significant changes in risk behaviors in ST-HIVST (p > 0.05), while the proportion of recreational drugs abuse (20.7% vs. 33.3%), commercial sex (14.6% vs. 22.9%), and unprotected anal sex (95.9% vs. 98.5%) increased significantly in LT-HIVST (p < 0.05). Specific changes varied across demographic characteristics. According to qualitative interviews, MSM might have decreased risk perception and increased risk behaviors after HIVST.

Conclusion

The use of HIVST may promote MSM to engage in risk behaviors. In the future, customized HIVST promotion programs need to be developed to expand HIV testing among MSM and simultaneously control their risk behaviors.
Examining pharmacoepidemiology of antibiotic use and resistance in first-line antibiotics: a self-controlled case series study of Escherichia coli in small companion animals
Authors: Chan Olivia S. K. , Lam Wendy Wing Tak , Naing Tint , Cheong Dorothy Yuen Ting , Lee Elaine , Cowling Ben , Low Matthew
Published: February 2024

Background

Clinicians need to prescribe antibiotics in a way that adequately treats infections, while simultaneously limiting the development of antibiotic resistance (ABR). Although there are abundant guidelines on how to best treat infections, there is less understanding of how treatment durations and antibiotic types influence the development of ABR. This study adopts a self-controlled case study (SCCS) method to relate antibiotic exposure time to subsequent changes in resistance patterns. This SCCS approach uses antibiotic exposure as a risk factor, and the development of ABR as an incidence rate ratio (IRR), which can be considered as the multiplicative change in risk for bacteria to become or maintain resistance.

Aim

To investigate the IRR of extensive (more than 7 antibiotic classes), revert, persistent, and directed antibiotic resistance according to the duration and type of antibiotic exposures in Escherichia coli (E. coli).

Methods and material

We use anonymized veterinary clinical data from dog and cat patients older than 6 months between 2015 and 2020. Patients were considered suitable cases if they received antibiotics and had a minimum of two urinary antibiograms within a 12-month period (the first prior to antibiotics exposure and the second from 1 week to 6 months after exposure). The first antibiogram is conducted before antibiotic exposure (case n=20).

Findings

From 20 individuals and 42 paired antibiograms we found that the IRR = 2 for extensive drug resistance in patients who received short-course antibiotic treatment compared to longer treatments. In contrast, multi-drug resistance IRR = 2.6 for long-course compared to short-course antibiotic treatment. The ratio of E. coli isolates that reverted from resistant to sensitive was 5.4 times more likely in patients who received antibiotics for longer than 10 days.
Utility of multimodal longitudinal imaging data for dynamic prediction of cardiovascular and renal disease: the CARDIA study
Authors: Nguyen Hieu , Vasconcellos Henrique D. , Keck Kimberley , Carr Jeffrey , Launer Lenore J. , Guallar Eliseo , Lima João A. C. , Ambale-Venkatesh Bharath
Published: February 2024

Background

Medical examinations contain repeatedly measured data from multiple visits, including imaging variables collected from different modalities. However, the utility of such data for the prediction of time-to-event is unknown, and only a fraction of the data is typically used for risk prediction. We hypothesized that multimodal longitudinal imaging data could improve dynamic disease prognosis of cardiovascular and renal disease (CVRD).

Methods

In a multi-centered cohort of 5,114 CARDIA participants, we included 166 longitudinal imaging variables from five imaging modalities: Echocardiography (Echo), Cardiac and Abdominal Computed Tomography (CT), Dual-Energy x-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA), Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) collected from young adulthood to mid-life over 30 years (1985–2016) to perform dynamic survival analysis of CVRD events using machine learning dynamic survival analysis (Dynamic-DeepHit, LTRCforest, and Extended Cox for Time-varying Covariates). Risk probabilities were continuously updated as new data were collected. Model performance was assessed using integrated AUC and C-index and compared to traditional risk factors.

Results

Longitudinal imaging data, even when being irregularly collected with high missing rates, improved CVRD dynamic prediction (0.03 in integrated AUC, up to 0.05 in C-index compared to traditional risk factors; best model's C-index = 0.80–0.83 up to 20 years from baseline) from young adulthood followed up to midlife. Among imaging variables, Echo and CT variables contributed significantly to improved risk estimation. Echo measured in early adulthood predicted midlife CVRD risks almost as well as Echo measured 10–15 years later (0.01 C-index difference). The most recent CT exam provided the most accurate prediction for short-term risk estimation. Brain MRI markers provided additional information from cardiac Echo and CT variables that led to a slightly improved prediction.

Conclusions

Longitudinal multimodal imaging data readily collected from follow-up exams can improve CVRD dynamic prediction. Echocardiography measured early can provide a good long-term risk estimation, while CT/calcium scoring variables carry atherosclerotic signatures that benefit more immediate risk assessment starting in middle-age.
Sleep related movement disorders in the elderly: a review of recent literature
Authors: Comair Marc , Awad Sandy , Ghosh Pritha
Published: February 2024

Sleep-related movement disorders (SRMD) are common, often troublesome, conditions in the elderly. Although these disorders can impact people of all ages, there are different considerations when diagnosing and managing SRMD in the elderly. In this review, we discuss SRMD in the elderly, focusing on recent developments in the areas of restless leg syndrome, periodic limb movement disorder, nocturnal muscle cramps, and sleep-related bruxism. In addition to reviewing these entities more generally, we highlight key considerations in addressing these in conditions in older adults.
The impact of socioeconomic deprivation on liver transplantation
Authors: De Simone Paolo , Germani Giacomo , Lai Quirino , Ducci Juri , Russo Francesco Paolo , Gitto Stefano , Burra Patrizia
Published: February 2024

Despite global expansion, social disparities impact all phases of liver transplantation, from patient referral to post-transplant care. In pediatric populations, socioeconomic deprivation is associated with delayed referral, higher waitlist mortality, and reduced access to living donor transplantation. Children from socially deprived communities are twice as much less adherent to immunosuppression and have up to a 32% increased incidence of graft failure. Similarly, adult patients from deprived areas and racial minorities have a higher risk of not initiating the transplant evaluation, lower rates of waitlisting, and a 6% higher risk of not being transplanted. Social deprivation is racially segregated, and Black recipients have an increased risk of post-transplant mortality by up to 21%. The mechanisms linking social deprivation to inferior outcomes are not entirely elucidated, and powered studies are still lacking. We offer a review of the most recent evidence linking social deprivation and post-liver transplant outcomes in pediatric and adult populations, as well as a literature-derived theoretical background model for future research on this topic.
Unveiling the nexus between solar energy adoption and crop farmer income: evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Khan Nawab , Elhindi Khalid M. , Kassem Hazem S. , Kazim Rizwan , Zhang Shemei
Published: February 2024

Worldwide, the continuous advancement of off-grid solar photovoltaic irrigation seeks to improve water access, increase food production, and reduce carbon emissions and energy costs associated with fuel usage. Consequently, this enhances human resilience to climate change and contributes to the improvement of farmers’ income. This study investigates the influence of solar energy adoption on farmers’ income, drawing insights from 1,080 growers in Pakistan. It uses the logit model and propensity score matching (PSM) to address bias. Factors influencing income, including gender, education, decision-making autonomy, farm size, extension services, cooperative associations, access to credit, risk perception, market distance, and tube well availability, are identified. Findings reveal a positive correlation between solar energy adoption and increased crop farmer income. PSM analysis validates this, emphasizing the need for government and agricultural extension interventions to enhance financial accessibility for farmers facing mobility challenges. This includes subsidies for technology adoption and knowledge dissemination about digital technology. The study advocates for an accelerated adoption of solar energy to foster agricultural development in Pakistan. In resource-poor nations like Pakistan, government subsidies are crucial to offset technology costs for citizens facing challenges in affording green energy. Addressing Pakistan’s energy crisis through promoting solar energy for irrigation can amplify farmers’ income. It is imperative to promote access to this technology, particularly for water pumping, through subsidies and readily available credit facilities, given the resource limitations and small landholdings of many farmers in Pakistan.
Possibility of immediate treatment to soybean processing by-products using screw extrusion: a mini review
Authors: Shen Yue , Huang Xiaolong , Nan Yujia , Yu Hansong , Lyu Bo
Published: February 2024

Soybeans are an important oil and protein supply crop, but the utilization of by-products from its processing products has never been effectively resolved, while a large number of nutritional resources have been wasted and environmental pollution is serious, restricting the sustainable development of the industry. The critical problem of soybean processing by-products includes excessive levels of microorganisms, residual proteins, metal ions, and other substances. Because the screw extrusion process has potentially advantageous processing characteristics, it appears that it’s just the right solution to the above problem of soybean processing by-products. We propose that this technology may be a potentially scalable technology for the immediate processing of soybean by-products. This paper reviews the theoretical foundations in existing research, briefly discusses the technological advantages, feasibility, and potential risks of this process, and hopes that researchers may pay attention to this technique and conduct feasibility studies.
Case Report: A rare case of intramedullary spinal cord abscess with brain abscess caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae underwent surgical intervention
Authors: Zhang Wenjuan , Guo Xiangyu , Xu Xuejun , Deng Bing
Published: February 2024

Background

Intramedullary Spinal Cord Abscess (ISCA) is an uncommon infectious disease of the central nervous system. Since its first report in 1830, there have been very few documented cases associated with it. Here, we present a case of ISCA with cerebral abscess caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Case presentation

A 55-year-old male patient presented with head and neck pain, fever, and left limb weakness for 5 days. The diagnosis of ISCA with brain abscess caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae was confirmed through sputum culture, cerebrospinal fluid gene test, pus culture, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as well as computerized tomography (CT) scan. The patient had a history of pulmonary tuberculosis and old tuberculous foci were observed in the lung. Initially considering tuberculosis as the cause due to unclear etiology at that time, anti-tuberculosis treatment was administered. However, due to rapid deterioration in the patient's condition and severe neurological dysfunction within a short period of time after admission, surgical intervention including incision and drainage for intramedullary abscess along with removal of brain abscess was performed. Subsequent postoperative follow-up showed improvement in both symptoms and imaging findings.

Conclusion

Early diagnosis of central nervous system (CNS) abscess coupled with prompt surgical intervention and administration of appropriate antibiotics are crucial factors in preventing disease progression and reducing mortality rates.
Stereotactic body radiotherapy in lung cancer: a contemporary review
Authors: Csiki Emese , Simon Mihály , Papp Judit , Barabás Márton , Mikáczó Johanna , Gál Kristóf , Sipos David , Kovács Árpád
Published: February 2024

The treatment of early stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has improved enormously in the last two decades. Although surgery is not the only choice, lobectomy is still the gold standard treatment type for operable patients. For inoperable patients stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) should be offered, reaching very high local control and overall survival rates. With SBRT we can precisely irradiate small, well-defined lesions with high doses. To select the appropriate fractionation schedule it is important to determine the size, localization and extent of the lung tumor. The introduction of novel and further developed planning (contouring guidelines, diagnostic image application, planning systems) and delivery techniques (motion management, image guided radiotherapy) led to lower rates of side effects and more conformal target volume coverage. The purpose of this study is to summarize the current developments, randomised studies, guidelines about lung SBRT, with emphasis on the possibility of increasing local control and overall rates in “fit,” operable patients as well, so SBRT would be eligible in place of surgery.
Clinical Impact and Risk Factors of Seizure After Liver Transplantation: A Nested Case-Control Study
Authors: Kang Minyu , Koh Hwa-Hee , Kim Deok-Gie , Yim Seung Hyuk , Choi Mun Chae , Min Eun-Ki , Lee Jae Geun , Kim Myoung Soo , Joo Dong Jin
Published: February 2024

Seizures are a frequent neurological consequence following liver transplantation (LT), however, research on their clinical impact and risk factors is lacking. Using a nested case-control design, patients diagnosed with seizures (seizure group) within 1-year post-transplantation were matched to controls who had not experienced seizures until the corresponding time points at a 1:5 ratio to perform survival and risk factor analyses. Seizures developed in 61 of 1,243 patients (4.9%) at median of 11 days after LT. Five-year graft survival was significantly lower in the seizure group than in the controls (50.6% vs. 78.2%, respectively, p < 0.001) and seizure was a significant risk factor for graft loss after adjusting for variables (HR 2.04, 95% CI 1.24–3.33). In multivariable logistic regression, body mass index <23 kg/m2, donor age ≥45 years, intraoperative continuous renal replacement therapy and delta sodium level ≥4 mmol/L emerged as independent risk factors for post-LT seizure. Delta sodium level ≥4 mmol/L was associated with seizures, regardless of the severity of preoperative hyponatremia. Identifying and controlling those risk factors are required to prevent post-LT seizures which could result in worse graft outcome.
Decoding the Digital Landscape: An Empirically Validated Model for Assessing Digitalisation across Public Administration Levels
Authors: Aristovnik Aleksander , Ravšelj Dejan , Murko Eva
Published: February 2024

This research advances the field of digital government by developing and empirically validating a model for measuring the digital state of public administration, with a specific focus on Slovenia. Moving beyond traditional digital maturity models, our study introduces a holistic framework that integrates elements of technology, process, structure, people and organisational culture, enriched by dimensions of digital principles, good governance, and external environmental factors. This framework is grounded in an adaptation of Leavitt’s diamond model, tailored to capture the nuances of digitalisation in public administration. The empirical validation is conducted through a comprehensive questionnaire administered to Slovenian public administration organisations at both local and state levels. The results provide a nuanced understanding of the current digital state that extends beyond technological aspects, including process optimisation, organisational structure, people elements and culture dynamics, and insights into internal and external barriers to digitalisation as well as principles of good governance and digitalisation. The study’s results show that ministries in Slovenia generally possess a more advanced digital infrastructure than municipalities, particularly in various aspects of ICT development and integration. While Slovenia aspires to align with the EU digital strategy, it faces various challenges, particularly at the municipal level, in achieving coherent development of digital skills and policy implementation. The comprehensive approach allows for a more informed evaluation of digital transformation efforts, offering insights into areas of strength and opportunities for further development. The findings have significant implications for policymakers and stakeholders, highlighting critical areas for targeted improvement and strategic planning in the digitalisation of public administration.
Experimental Investigation of the Shock-Related Unsteadiness around a Spiked-Blunt Body Based on a Novel DMD Energy Sorting Criterion
Authors: Wang Yifan , Xu Jinglei , Qin Qihao , Guan Ruiqing , Cai Le
Published: February 2024

In this study, we propose a novel dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) energy sorting criterion that works in conjunction with the conventional DMD amplitude-frequency sorting criterion on the high-dimensional schlieren dataset of the unsteady flow of a spiked-blunt body at Ma = 2.2. The study commences by conducting a comparative analysis of the eigenvalues, temporal coefficients, and spatial structures derived from the three sorting criteria. Then, the proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) and dynamic pressure signals are utilised as supplementary resources to explore their effectiveness in capturing spectral characteristics and spatial structures. The study concludes by summarising the characteristics and potential applications of DMD associated with each sorting criterion, as well as revealing the predominant flow features of the unsteady flow field around the spiked-blunt body at supersonic speeds. Results indicate that DMD using the energy sorting criterion outperforms the amplitude and frequency sorting criteria in identifying the primary structures of unsteady pulsations in the flow field, which proves its superiority in handling an experimental dataset of unsteady flow fields. Moreover, the unsteady pulsations in the flow field around the spiked-blunt body under supersonic inflow conditions are observed to exhibit multi-frequency coupling, with the primary frequency of 3.3 kHz originating from the periodic motion of the aftershock.
Comparison of Two Aerodynamic Models for Projectile Trajectory Simulation
Authors: Sahbon Nezar , Welcer Michał
Published: February 2024

The accuracy of aerodynamically controlled guided projectile simulations is largely determined by the aerodynamic model employed in flight simulations which impacts vehicle interaction with the surrounding air. In this work, the performance of projectile path following with two distinct aerodynamic models is examined for their possible influence on trajectory following accuracy. The study incorporates the path following guidance algorithm, which enables the object to navigate along a predefined path. The simulation mathematical model is developed in the MATLAB/Simulink environment. In addition, by integrating the path-following algorithm with the two aerodynamic models, the dynamic behaviour of the aerodynamically controlled projectile can be compared. This allows for a more comprehensive analysis of the trajectory and the effects of each model on the desired flight path. Further research can explore the differences between the two models in greater detail and quantify their impact on unmanned projectile trajectory predictions, in addition to further exploring the specific characteristics and limitations of each model. This will involve analysing their assumptions, computational methods, and inputs to identify potential sources of error or uncertainty in the simulations. Moreover, these results have important implications for the design of aerodynamically controlled projectiles as well as a deeper understanding of aerodynamic mathematical modelling in flight simulation.
Carbon Emission Characteristics of Cropland in Northeast China and Monitoring Means
Authors: Liu Yongxiang , Zhao Hongmei , Zhao Guangying , Zhang Xuelei , Xiu Aijun
Published: February 2024

As the cereal-producing region of China’s black soil, there are many agricultural activities, mainly including cultivation, straw processing, and harvesting, in Northeast China. In the process of carrying out these agricultural activities, they inevitably lead to large carbon emissions, among which straw burning and wind erosion are two processes that directly lead to carbon emissions from farmland. In this study, we estimated the carbon emissions of these two processes based on two algorithms: the improved Fire Radiative Power and Community Multiscale Air Quality (FENGSHA) algorithms. The results showed that the carbon emissions from straw burning in Northeast China can reach up to 126,651 Gg in 2017, and those from wind erosion of agricultural land can reach up to 80.45 Gg a year. When compared with the carbon emissions in 2017, the implementation of the Action Plan for Straw Disposal in Northeast China resulted in around a 40% decrease in the carbon emissions from straw burning in 2022. However, the carbon emissions from agricultural land wind erosion increased by about 10%. The seasonal characteristics of both straw burning and farmland wind erosion were obvious, with both being concentrated in the spring. In addition, based on the potential impacts of straw burning on wind erosion, we proposed that a Y-shaped integrated monitoring network should be constructed to monitor both straw burning and wind erosion in Northeast China. Thus, the study of carbon emissions from straw burning and wind erosion in Northeast China is of great importance for energy conservation and emission reduction, and the implementation of a straw burning ban policy, straw recycling and reuse, and a black soil protection policy is recommended.
Effects of a Photovoltaic Plant on Microclimate and Crops’ Growth in a Mediterranean Area
Authors: Fagnano Massimo , Fiorentino Nunzio , Visconti Donato , Baldi Gian Maria , Falce Michele , Acutis Marco , Genovese Maria , Di Blasi Miriam
Published: February 2024

The effects of the co-location of energy production from a photovoltaic (PV) plant and aromatic crops (thyme, oregano, and Greek mountain tea) in a hot and dry environment have been investigated in Enel Green Power PV plant located in Kourtesi (Greece). The study was aimed at evaluating the influence of the PV plant on microclimate, on soil temperature and water potential, and on the crops’ growth in a testing area (the corridors between two modules rows) compared to a full sunlight control area. The net radiation and of the wind speed recorded in the testing area showed a 44% and 38% reduction respectively, compared to the control area, while air temperature and relative humidity did not show any difference. Among crop/soil monitored parameters, cumulative reference evapotranspiration (ET0) and the average soil temperature were found 29% and 8% lower in the testing area, conversely the soil water potential (SWP) was 34% higher compared to control area. No significant differences in the plant growth have been detected between testing and control areas, except for oregano whose weight was higher in testing area. The results suggest that in hot and dry climatic conditions, the reduction of climatic stress could compensate the decrease of photosynthesis due to the shading effect of the PV modules, thus not damaging crops’ growth.
Sustainability Potential of Marginal Areas for Food, Feed, and Non-Food Production in the Puglia Region, Southern Italy: Part II: A Review
Authors: Ali Salem Alhajj , Vivaldi Gaetano Alessandro , Tallou Anas , Lopriore Giuseppe , Stellacci Anna Maria , Montesano Francesco Fabiano , Mazzeo Andrea , Ferrara Giuseppe , Gadaleta Agata , Camposeo Salvatore
Published: February 2024

There is considerable unused and unproductive land in rural areas of the Puglia region, Southern Italy. These areas and their local cultivators/growers have always been overlooked by academic, policy, and investment circles despite their potential to improve food security and the livelihood of rural communities. Therefore, it is crucial to evaluate the sustainability potential of these areas to produce food, feed, and non-food products. This evaluation will play a vital role in the sustainable development of rural regions such as the Puglia region. In this review, we highlighted important aspects regarding the management potential and the expected contribution that various types of marginal areas (MAs) could add to the regional economy of Puglia. The authors focused on the extent to which Puglia’s marginal lands can realistically be utilized to meet Italy’s food production targets, considering the economic, social, and environmental potential of different marginal area types within the Puglia territories. In writing this review, we have been inspired by the lack of sufficient information necessary to carry out a plan for the revitalization of MAs and the sustainable development of regional rural areas. Although Italian scholars have not extensively researched MAs, the available data suggest that they could significantly contribute to the development of regional economy and food security, despite their complexity and low-input nature. The scientific evidence suggests that the main challenge associated with using MAs for food and/or non-food production is balancing biodiversity conservation with local residents’ social and economic development. Presently, some small-scale or family farms are already operating within MAs. However, they still contribute minimally to the overall agricultural production in the region, even though they have the potential to play an important economic role for numerous rural communities in Puglia. Furthermore, the available data indicate that over 40% of existing farmers in MAs require greater support to sustain their activities. Such support should be tailored to the local context, built on and, where appropriate, improved upon existing practices, while addressing various threats to these areas. In this regard, sustainable development policies should shape MAs’ landscapes through the support of initiatives aimed at the recovery of traditional agricultural activities, the use of local varieties, the protection of the environment, and the conservation of biodiversity. The authors believe that this review provides policymakers with recommendations to consider when supporting the sustainable use of MAs as a potential source of food security and sustainable development for people living in these areas.
Analysis of the Photosynthetic Parameters, Grain Yield, and Quality of Different Winter Wheat Varieties over a Two-Year Period
Authors: Duvnjak Jurica , Katanic Zorana , Sarcevic Hrvoje , Spanic Valentina
Published: February 2024

Due to increasingly frequent unfavorable climate changes, achieving a high grain yield of wheat is a challenge for breeders. The relationships between wheat productivity and photosynthesis traits are not very well understood during the growing season. This study investigated the effect of chlorophyll a fluorescence parameters (maximum quantum yield of primary photochemistry (TRO/ABS) and performance index on absorption basis (PIABS)) on grain yield and the yield-related and technological quality traits of six wheat varieties over two growing seasons. In the first growing season (2021/2022), grain yield was significantly positively correlated with 1000 kernel weight and TRO/ABS at the second measurement point (growth stage 25 (GS 25)). Only the highest-yielding variety Bubnjar (104.0 dt ha−1) showed values of TRO/ABS at the same significance level between the second and third measurement points. Due to elevated virus and disease infections in the second growing season (2022/2023), the grain yield of the investigated varieties decreased between 37.9% (Bubnjar) and 67.6% (Anđelka) relative to the first growing season. The three highest-yielding varieties (Bubnjar, Rujana, and Silvija) in 2022/2023 were the tallest, were later in maturity, escaped yellow rust pressure at the stem elongation stage more efficiently, and also showed the lowest increase in TRO/ABS at this stage (fourth measurement point at GS 47, compared to the third at GS 32). In addition, the highest-yielding variety Bubnjar showed the highest increase in PIABS at the last measurement (seventh) at GS 71 compared to the sixth (GS 69), thus maintaining the vitality of flag leaves at the grain-filling stage, while the other varieties showed a very small increase or even a significant decrease. Therefore, plant photosynthetic activity over the entire growing season contributes to crop productivity.
The Effects of Different Rotations of Beans, Maize, and Cabbage on Soil Moisture and Economic Benefits
Authors: Wang Xiaojuan , Wang Tianle , Wang Lei , Liu Enke
Published: February 2024

The article investigates the effects of different cropping rotations on soil moisture and economic benefit. Cabbage–maize–cabbage (CMC), beans–maize–cabbage (BMC), and cabbage–cabbage–cabbage (CCC) treatments were set up to study the effects of different crop rotation combinations on soil water storage, evapotranspiration (ET), water use efficiency (WUE), and economic benefit. The results showed that the average soil moisture content decreased initially and then increased with crop rotation, whereas it continued to decrease with continuous cabbage cropping as the crop grew. CMC reduced ET, whereas BMC increased ET from the nodulation to maturation stages of cabbage compared with CCC in the third experimental year. WUE of different crops showed that cabbage > maize > beans. The economic benefit of the CMC was higher than the other treatments in the third planting year. Therefore, the best crop rotation combination in this area is cabbage–maize–cabbage.
Impact of Environmental Food Intake on the Gut Microbiota of Endangered Père David’s Deer: Primary Evidence for Population Reintroduction
Authors: Mo Qiying , Yao Hongyu , Wu Hong , Zhao Dapeng
Published: February 2024

Reintroduction has been successful in re-establishing several endangered wild animals in their historical habitats, including Père David’s deer (Elaphurus davidianus). Continuous monitoring of reintroduced individuals is essential for improving the sustainability of ex situ conservation efforts. Despite an increased recognition of the significance of the gut microbiome for animal health, the correlation between diet and the gut microbiome in E. davidianus is unclear. In this study, 15 fresh fecal samples of E. davidianus were collected from Tianjin Qilihai Wetland and the association between dietary and gut microbiota composition was evaluated. Microscopic observations showed that Nymphoides peltata [relative density (RD = 0.3514), Phragmites australis (RD = 0.2662), Setaria viridis (RD = 0.1211), and Typha orientalis (RD = 0.1085) were the main dietary plants in the fecal samples. High-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing showed a predominance of the phyla Firmicutes and Proteobacteria and the genus Psychrobacillus (26.53%) in the gut microbiota. The RD of N. peltata was significantly positively correlated with the abundance of Firmicutes (p = 0.005) and the genus UCG-005 (p = 0.024). This study indicates a close association between food digestion and nutrient intake, providing basic monitoring data for the full reintroduction and recovery of wild E. davidianus.
Possible Spreading of SARS-CoV-2 from Humans to Captive Non-Human Primates in the Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Tavera Gonzales Andrea , Bazalar Gonzales Jhonathan , Silvestre Espejo Thalía , Leiva Galarza Milagros , Rodríguez Cueva Carmen , Carhuaricra Huamán Dennis , Luna Espinoza Luis , Maturrano Hernández Abelardo
Published: February 2024

Human-to-animal transmission events of SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) have been reported in both domestic and wild species worldwide. Despite the high rates of contagion and mortality during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus Diseases 2019) pandemic in Peru, no instances of natural virus infection have been documented in wild animals, particularly in the Amazonian regions where human–wildlife interactions are prevalent. In this study, we conducted a surveillance investigation using viral RNA sequencing of fecal samples collected from 76 captive and semi-captive non-human primates (NHPs) in the Loreto, Ucayali, and Madre de Dios regions between August 2022 and February 2023. We detected a segment of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene of SARS-CoV-2 by metagenomic sequencing in a pooled fecal sample from captive white-fronted capuchins (Cebus unicolor) at a rescue center in Bello Horizonte, Ucayali. Phylogenetic analysis further confirmed that the retrieved partial sequence of the RdRp gene matched the SARS-CoV-2 genome. This study represents the first documented instance of molecular SARS-CoV-2 detection in NHPs in the Peruvian Amazon, underscoring the adverse impact of anthropic activities on the human–NHP interface and emphasizing the importance of ongoing surveillance for early detection and prediction of future emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants in animals.
Changes in Wolf Occupancy and Feeding Habits in the Northern Apennines: Results of Long-Term Predator–Prey Monitoring
Authors: Torretta Elisa , Brangi Anna , Meriggi Alberto
Published: February 2024

The comprehension of the factors that have influenced the recent changes in wolf (Canis lupus) range and diet that have occurred in our study area, characterized by a highly heterogeneous landscape, can shed light on their current process of expansion toward the plain. Wolf presence was monitored using a standardized protocol from 2007 to 2022 by carrying out eight monitoring sessions organized in seasonal surveys, during which, we collected wolf presence data. To model wolf range dynamics, we used dynamic occupancy models considering land cover types and wild ungulate abundances as covariates. Moreover, we studied the wolf diet through scat analysis, identifying the consumed items from undigested remains. Wolf occupancy in the study area progressed from mountains to lower hills gradually; the observed range dynamics were driven by prey abundance and human presence: in particular, the probability of colonization increased with roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) abundance, whereas the probability of extinction increased with urban areas. The wolf diet showed a gradual shift from the prevalent consumption of wild boar (2007–2008 and 2011–2012) to the prevalent consumption of roe deer (continuously increasing from 2015 onward). Our results might be related to a specific adaptation of the predator to the local ecology of the most consumed species: the roe deer.