bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure Elucidation and Biosynthesis of Orobanchol
Authors: Wakabayashi Takatoshi , Ueno Kotomi , Sugimoto Yukihiro
Published: February 2022

Strigolactones (SLs), a class of phytohormones that regulate diverse developmental processes, were initially characterized as host-derived germination stimulants for seeds belonging to the genera Striga, Orobanche, and Phelipanche. Orobanchol (1), which is detected in the root exudates of several plants and recognized as a prevalent SL, was first isolated from the root exudates of red clover as a germination stimulant for Orobanche minor in 1998. However, the structure of this stimulant proposed at that time was disputable considering its predicted germination-inducing activity for Striga gesnerioides. The genuine structure of orobanchol was elucidated following a decade-long controversy, which ultimately facilitated the understanding of the importance of SL stereochemistry in Striga seed germination. Recently, studies focusing on clarifying the biosynthesis pathway of orobanchol are being conducted. Cytochrome P450 monooxygenases are involved in orobanchol biosynthesis downstream of carlactonoic acid (CLA) via two pathways: either through 4-deoxyorobanchol or direct conversion from CLA. Substantial progress in the identification of more SL structures and clarification of their biosynthetic mechanisms will further contribute in the comprehension of their structural diversity’s functional importance and agricultural applications. Herein, we have reviewed the history leading to the discovery of the genuine structure of orobanchol and the current understanding of its biosynthetic mechanisms.
The Role of Community in Understanding Involvement in Community Energy Initiatives
Authors: Goedkoop Fleur , Sloot Daniel , Jans Lise , Dijkstra Jacob , Flache Andreas , Steg Linda
Published: February 2022

Community energy initiatives are set up by volunteers in local communities to promote sustainable energy behaviors and help to facilitate a sustainable energy transition. A key question is what motivates people to be involved in such initiatives. We propose that next to a stronger personal motivation for sustainable energy, people’s perception that their community is motivated to engage in sustainable energy and their involvement in the community (i.e., community identification and interpersonal contact) may affect their initiative involvement. We tested this proposition with a questionnaire study among inhabitants of seven local communities (N= 439). Results suggested that community factors are uniquely related to initiative involvement (willingness to actively participate and attendance of an initiative meeting) next to personal sustainable energy motivations. In particular, stronger community identification and more interpersonal contact with other community members increased the likelihood that people become involved in a community initiative, but the perception of the sustainable energy motivation of one’s community was not uniquely related to initiative involvement. We discuss theoretical and practical implications of these findings.
The Impact of Job Stress and State Anger on Turnover Intention Among Nurses During COVID-19: The Mediating Role of Emotional Exhaustion
Authors: Shah Syed Haider Ali , Haider Aftab , Jindong Jiang , Mumtaz Ayesha , Rafiq Nosheen
Published: February 2022

Based on the social exchange theory, the aim of this study is to identify the association between job stress state anger, emotional exhaustion and job turnover intention. This study postulates that job related stress and state anger among nurses during COVID-19 subsequently leads to their job turnover intentions. In addition, the study also aims to see the mediating role of emotional exhaustion between COVID-19-related job stress, state anger, and turnover intentions. The sample of this study is gathered from 335 registered nurses working in Pakistani hospitals dealing with COVID-19-related patients. The interrelationships between variables are checked by using structural equation modeling through AMOS. Key findings confirm that COVID-19-related job stress and state anger had a significant effect on nurses’ turnover intentions. Furthermore, emotional exhaustion mediated the relationship between COVID-19-related job stress, state anger, and turnover intentions. There is a lack of research which has assessed the impact of Novel COVID-19-related job stress and state anger on nurses’ turnover intentions in hospitals, providing empirical evidence from a developing country-Pakistan. This study offers managerial implications for hospital management and health policymakers. Moreover, nursing managers need to pay attention to nurses’ turnover intentions who are facing the issue at the front line as patients receive their initial treatment from nurses in the COVID-19 outbreak.
Relationship Between Group Work Competencies and Satisfaction With Project-Based Learning Among University Students
Authors: Melguizo-Garín Anabel , Ruiz-Rodríguez Iván , Peláez-Fernández María Angeles , Salas-Rodríguez Javier , Serrano-Ibáñez Elena R.
Published: February 2022

There is a growing interest in improving the teaching–learning process at all levels of education, including higher education. In recent years, university institutions have been taking action to renew and modernize the way in which they teach and learn, making the process more dynamic and closer to the current social reality. Competencies such as the ability to work in a team have become essential for the successful implementation of innovative methodologies in which student participation is particularly relevant. Student acceptance is key to the success of any teaching methodology; however, the influence of group work skills on satisfaction with innovative methodologies such as project-based learning (PBL) has not yet been tested among university students. Thus, the objective of this study is to explore the association between group work competencies and satisfaction with PBL. A total sample of 359 students from two Spanish universities participated in the research. Our results reveal that there is a significant and positive relationship between competencies related to group work and satisfaction with PBL. In addition, a multiple regression analysis shows that the competencies “Conception of group work,” “Usefulness of group work,” “Planning of group work by teachers,” and “Group norms” increase satisfaction with the use of the PBL methodology. This work expands our knowledge about the role in increasing students’ satisfaction that is played by the ability of college students to work as a team. These findings could also guide teachers interested in new teaching methodologies.
The Role of Digital Technologies to Promote Collaborative Creativity in Language Education
Authors: Selfa-Sastre Moisés , Pifarré Manoli , Cujba Andreea , Cutillas Laia , Falguera Enric
Published: February 2022

The importance of cultivating creativity in language education has been widely acknowledged in the academic literature. In this respect, digital technologies can play a key role in achieving this endeavour. The socio-cultural conceptualization of creativity stresses the role of communication, collaboration and dialogical interaction of creative expression in language education. The objective of this paper is to study the literature focusing on cases of collaborative creativity and technology embedded in language education. To this end, we carry out a systematic revision of state-of-the-art literature consisting of 26 blind peer-reviewed empirical studies selected from several databases that address our main research question, namely, which specific roles and forms of digital technology can be identified in the existing literature that support collaborative creativity in language education. Results show that the features of digital technology unfold a range of learning opportunities in language education and can play three different roles in promoting collaborative creativity: (1) as a tutoring device that guides the implementation of key co-creation skills; (2) as a tool that enables and shapes the development of co-creative thinking skills; and (3) as a medium that creates rich and resourceful environments to stimulate the emergence of collective creative processes. The paper also reveals that these three roles can be performed using a wide range of interactive technologies that encourage students to participate in a rich, co-creative language learning experience and equip learners with key competences to approach complex problems in a globalised and hyper-connected world. Finally, this paper may contribute to developing future language technology-enhanced learning projects capable of promoting key collaborative and creative processes.
Addiction Psychotherapy: Going Beyond Self-Medication
Authors: Feingold Daniel , Tzur Bitan Dana
Published: February 2022

Scientific and clinical work concerning the etiology of substance use and addiction has come a long way in the past decades. Current theories highlight the notion that addiction is rooted in deficits in neurobiological and psychological reward mechanisms, but also as a coping-oriented effort to contend with, or “self-medicate,” negative emotional experiences. As such, contemporary approaches in the dynamic psychotherapy of addiction highlight the compensatory nature of addiction, encouraging clinicians to detect the mental suffering underlying addiction and promote alternative coping behaviors. In this perspective article, the authors advocate for an integrative approach toward understanding and addressing addiction in psychotherapy, acknowledging its biological, psychological and social aspects. We propose that in addition to the regulatory process of self-medication, in which negative emotions are being suppressed, compulsive substance use may also reflect a substitutive function, in which negative emotions are being 'acted-out' through the use of drugs or alcohol. We suggest an integrative clinical approach which addresses these psychological aspects in a sequential manner and discuss consequent benefits for clinicians and patients working with and through addiction.
Influence of Prenatal Drug Exposure, Maternal Inflammation, and Parental Aging on the Development of Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Sato Atsushi , Kotajima-Murakami Hiroko , Tanaka Miho , Katoh Yoshihisa , Ikeda Kazutaka
Published: February 2022

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects reciprocal social interaction and produces abnormal repetitive, restrictive behaviors and interests. The diverse causes of ASD are divided into genetic alterations and environmental risks. The prevalence of ASD has been rising for several decades, which might be related to environmental risks as it is difficult to consider that the prevalence of genetic disorders related to ASD would increase suddenly. The latter includes (1) exposure to medications, such as valproic acid (VPA) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (2), maternal complications during pregnancy, including infection and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and (3) high parental age. Epidemiological studies have indicated a pathogenetic role of prenatal exposure to VPA and maternal inflammation in the development of ASD. VPA is considered to exert its deleterious effects on the fetal brain through several distinct mechanisms, such as alterations of γ-aminobutyric acid signaling, the inhibition of histone deacetylase, the disruption of folic acid metabolism, and the activation of mammalian target of rapamycin. Maternal inflammation that is caused by different stimuli converges on a higher load of proinflammatory cytokines in the fetal brain. Rodent models of maternal exposure to SSRIs generate ASD-like behavior in offspring, but clinical correlations with these preclinical findings are inconclusive. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and advanced parental age increase the risk of ASD in humans, but the mechanisms have been poorly investigated in animal models. Evidence of the mechanisms by which environmental factors are related to ASD is discussed, which may contribute to the development of preventive and therapeutic interventions for ASD.
Gene Therapy Evidence Generation and Economic Analysis: Pragmatic Considerations to Facilitate Fit-for-Purpose Health Technology Assessment
Authors: Qiu Tingting , Pochopien Michal , Liang Shuyao , Saal Gauri , Paterak Ewelina , Janik Justyna , Toumi Mondher
Published: February 2022

Gene therapies (GTs) are considered to be a paradigm-shifting class of treatments with the potential to treat previously incurable diseases or those with significant unmet treatment needs. However, considerable challenges remain in their health technology assessment (HTA), mainly stemming from the inability to perform robust clinical trials to convince decision-makers to pay the high prices for the potential long-term treatment benefits provided. This article aims to review the recommendations that have been published for evidence generation and economic analysis for GTs against the feasibility of their implementation within current HTA decision analysis frameworks. After reviewing the systematically identified literature, we found that questions remain on the appropriateness of GT evidence generation, considering that additional, broader values brought by GTs seem insufficiently incorporated within proposed analytic methods. In cases where innovative methods are proposed, HTA organizations remain highly conservative and resistant to change their reference case and decision analysis framework. Such resistances are largely attributed to the substantial evidence uncertainty, resource-consuming administration process, and the absence of consensus on the optimized methodology to balance all the advantages and potential pitfalls of GTs.
Relationships Between Diagnosis, Bacterial Isolation, and Antibiotic Prescription in Out Patients With Respiratory Tract Infection Symptoms in Rural Anhui, China
Authors: Xingrong Shen , Rui Feng , Jing Chai , Jing Cheng , Oliver Isabel , Lambert Helen , Wang Debin
Published: February 2022

Objectives

This paper aims to explore the direct associations of antibiotics prescription with clinical diagnosis and bacterial detection. It also analyses the relations of clinical diagnosis with symptoms and bacterial detection, with a hope of revealing indirect links to antibiotic prescription.

Methods

The study was implemented in one village clinic and one township health center in each of four rural residential areas in Anhui Province, China. Observations were conducted to record clinical diagnosis and antibiotic prescription. A semi-structured questionnaire survey was used to collected patients' sociodemographic information and reported symptoms. Sputum and throat swabs were collected for bacterial culture.

Results

Among 1,068 patients presenting in the study settings who received a diagnosis of respiratory tract infection (RTI), 87.8% of prescriptions included an antibiotic and 35.8% included two or more antibiotics. Symptomatic RTI patients to the site clinics were diagnosed mainly as having upper respiratory tract infection (32.0%), bronchitis/tracheitis (23.4%), others (16.6%), pharyngitis (11.1%), common cold (8.0%), pneumonia/bronchopneumonia (4.6%) and tonsillitis (4.3%). These clinical diagnosis were associated with symptoms to a varied degree especially for upper respiratory tract infection and bronchitis/tracheitis. Prescription of any antibiotics was positively associated with diagnosis of bronchitis/tracheitis (OR: 5.00, 95% CI: 2.63–9.51), tonsillitis (OR: 4.63, 95% CI: 1.48–14.46), pneumonia/bronchopneumonia (OR: 4.28, 95% CI: 1.40–13.04), pharyngitis (OR: 3.22, 95% CI: 1.57–6.59) and upper respiratory tract infection (OR: 3.04, 95% CI: 1.75–5.27). Prescription of two or more antibiotics was statistically significant related to diagnosis of bronchitis/ tracheitis (OR: 2.20, 95% CI: 1.44–3.35) or tonsillitis (OR: 2.97, 95% CI: 1.47–6.00). About 30% of the patients were identified with some type of bacteria. Bacteria detection was linked with pharyngitis (OR: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.28–0.88) but not prescription of antibiotics.

Conclusions

Antibiotics prescription were found with a strong relation to diagnosis of RTIs given by the clinician but was not associated with the presence of bacteria in patient samples. Part of the diagnosis may have been given by the clinician to justify their antibiotics prescription. There is clear need to use additional measures (e.g., symptoms) in conjunction with diagnosis to supervise or audit excessive antibiotics use.
Barriers to Accessing Primary Care and Appropriateness of Healthcare Among Immigrants in Italy
Authors: Di Napoli Anteo , Ventura Martina , Spadea Teresa , Giorgi Rossi Paolo , Bartolini Letizia , Battisti Laura , Cacciani Laura , Caranci Nicola , Cernigliaro Achille , De Giorgi Marcello , Fanolla Antonio , Lazzeretti Marco , Mininni Mariangela , Mirisola Concetta , Petrelli Alessio
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The health status and health care needs of immigrant populations must be assessed. The aim of this study was to evaluate barriers to accessing primary care and the appropriateness of health care among resident immigrants in Italy, using indicators regarding maternal health, avoidable hospitalization, and emergency care.

Methods

Cross-sectional study using some indicators of the National Monitoring System of Health Status and Healthcare of the Immigrant Population (MSHIP), coordinated by the National Institute for Health, Migration and Poverty (INMP), calculated on perinatal care, hospital discharge, and emergency department databases for the years 2016–2017 in nine Italian regions (Piedmont, Trento, Bolzano, Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany, Umbria, Latium, Basilicata, Sicily). The analyses were conducted comparing immigrant and Italian residents.

Results

Compared to Italian women, immigrant women had fewer than five gynecological examinations (8.5 vs. 16.3%), fewer first examinations after the 12th week of gestational age (3.8 vs. 12.5%), and fewer than two ultrasounds (1.0 vs. 3.8%). Compared to Italians, immigrants had higher standardized rates (× 1,000 residents) of avoidable hospitalizations (males: 2.1 vs. 1.4; females: 0.9 vs. 0.7) and of access to emergency departments for non-urgent conditions (males: 62.0 vs. 32.7; females: 52.9 vs. 31.4).

Conclusions

In Italy, there appear to be major issues regarding accessing services and care for the immigrant population. Policies aimed at improving socioeconomic conditions and promoting integration can promote healthy lifestyles and appropriate access to health care, counteracting the emergence of health inequities in the immigrant population.
Twelve-Week Game-Based School Intervention Improves Physical Fitness in 12–14-Year-Old Girls
Authors: Petrušič Tanja , Trajković Nebojša , Bogataj Špela
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of a twelve-week game-based school intervention on physical fitness in girls aged 12–14 years. Fifty-nine adolescent girls (13.2 ± 0.3 years) were randomly assigned to a group that participated in a game-based after-school program (EXP) or a control group (CON) that participated only in mandatory physical education. The EXP group had the additional program twice a week after school for 40 min/session for 12 weeks alongside with regular physical education classes. The EXP program consisted mainly of small-sided games of football, basketball, handball, and volleyball. The assessment included a physical fitness assessment with standardized tests for this age group: countermovement jump (CMJ), standing long jump, bent arm hang, overhead medicine ball throw, sit-ups for 30 s, and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Level 1 Test (YYIRT1). There was a significant interaction between group (EXP vs. CON) and time (pre-test vs. post-test) for the standing long jump (p < 0.001), overhead medicine ball throw (p < 0.001), 30 s sit-ups (p = 0.030), bent- arm hang (p < 0.001), and YYIRT1 score (p = 0.004). In addition, a significant main effect was found for time in countermovement jump (p < 0.001). The results of this study indicate that the after-school game-based intervention significantly improves adolescent girls' physical fitness compared to regular physical education. The overall conclusion suggests that as few as two additional sessions per week are sufficient to produce significant changes in physical fitness in adolescent girls.
Using Physics-Based Digital Twins and Extended Reality for the Safety and Ergonomics Evaluation of Cobotic Workstations
Authors: Weistroffer Vincent , Keith François , Bisiaux Arnaud , Andriot Claude , Lasnier Antoine
Published: February 2022

Cobotic workstations in industrial plants involve a new kind of collaborative robots that can interact with operators. These cobots enable more flexibility and they can reduce the cycle time and the floor space of the workstation. However, cobots also introduce new safety concerns with regard to operators, and they may have an impact on the workstation ergonomics. For those reasons, introducing cobots in a workstation always require additional studies on safety and ergonomics before being applied and certified. Certification rules are often complex to understand. We present the SEEROB framework for the Safety and Ergonomics Evaluation of ROBotic workstations. The SEEROB framework simulates a physics-based digital twin of the cobotic workstation and computes a large panel of criteria used for safety and ergonomics. These criteria may be processed for the certification of the workstation. The SEEROB framework also uses extended reality technologies to display the digital twin and its associated data: users can use virtual reality headsets for the design of non-existing workstations, and mixed reality devices to better understand safety and ergonomics constraints on existing workstations. The SEEROB framework was tested on various laboratory and industrial use cases, involving different kinds of robots.
Prognostic Impact of Surgical Margin in Hepatectomy on Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies
Authors: Lin Yeting , Xu Jiaxuan , Hong Jiaze , Si Yuexiu , He Yujing , Zhang Jinhang
Published: February 2022

Objective

This study aims to comprehensively evaluate the prognostic impact of the surgical margin in hepatectomy on patients diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

A comprehensive and systematic search for eligible articles published in English before July 2021 was conducted across PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase electronic databases. The overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were the primary endpoints.

Results

In total, 37 observational studies with 12,295 cases were included in this meta-analysis. The results revealed that a wide surgical margin (≥1 cm) was associated with better OS (hazard ration (HR), 0.70; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.63–0.77) and DFS (HR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.61–0.71) compared to a narrow surgical margin (<1 cm). Subgroup analyses were conducted based on median follow-up time, gender, country, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) status, tumor number, and liver cirrhosis. The prognostic benefit of a wide surgical margin was consistent in most subgroups, however, analysis of studies from Western countries showed that margin width was not associated with prognosis.

Conclusion

In summary, a surgical margin wider than 1 cm prolongs the long-term prognosis of HCC patients compared to a surgical margin narrower than 1 cm.
Correlation and Influencing Factors Between Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease and Sleep Status in Patients
Authors: Liu Yue , Wu Jian , Xiao Feng , Gu Xiaofeng , Ji Li
Published: February 2022

Objective

To observe the correlation between laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD) and patients' sleep status, and to explore the related factors of LPRD.

Methods

Four hundred and sixteen patients who visited the otorhinolaryngology clinic in our hospital from June 2019 to June 2021 were selected as the research subjects. According to the scale of reflux symptom index, the subjects were divided into a patients group (120 patients) with an the reflux symptom index (RSI) > 13 and a control group (296 patients) with an RSI ≤ 13 according to the RSI scale score. General patient information was collected. The sleep state and emotional state of patients in the two groups were evaluated, and the related influencing factors for LPRD were also evaluated. The correlation between sleep state and depression in LPRD patients was analyzed.

Results

Four hundred and sixteen patients were divided into patients group and control group according to RSI score, the ratio of the two groups was 1:2.47. In the patients group, the common symptoms of RSI score and the top three of the total score were as follows: Foreign body sensation in throat in 112 patients, 438 points; Keep voice clear in 108 patients, 381 points; Excessive phlegm or nasal discharge reflux in 101 patients, 348 points. The PSQI and HADS scores in the patients group were higher than those in the control group (t = 19.990, 13.007, 14.690, P all <0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that high-fat diet and high PSQI score were the risk factors for the development of LPRD (P = 0.012, P = 0.007). According to the PSQI score, the patients in the patients group were divided into 35 patients with abnormal PSQI score, 85 patients with normal PSQI score, and the HADS scores of those with abnormal PSQI score were all lower than those with normal PSQI score (P > 0.05). The PSQI score of the patients in the patients group was positively correlated with the HADS score (r = 0.714, P = 0.013).

Conclusion

Sleep disorder may lead to the occurrence or aggravation of anxiety and depression in patients with LPRD, and it is an independent risk factor for the development of LPRD. Clinical attention to the treatment of sleep disorders in patients with LPRD may be conducive to improving the efficacy of LPRD.
Feasability of a Frameless Brain Biopsy System for Companion Animals Using Cone-Beam CT-Based Automated Registration
Authors: Meneses Felix , Maiolini Arianna , Forterre Franck , Oevermann Anna , Schweizer-Gorgas Daniela
Published: February 2022

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the use of a novel intraoperative cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT)-based automated registration system for frameless stereotactic brain biopsy in companion animals. An experimental cadaveric study evaluated thalamic and piriform lobe target site needle placement error in three dogs and three cats without a history of intracranial disease. Diagnostic accuracy and diagnostic yield were prospectively evaluated in twenty-four client-owned dogs and four cats with intracranial disease. Twenty-one procedures were performed post mortem (eighteen dogs and three cats), and seven biopsy procedures were performed in alive patients (six dogs and one cat). Procedural duration was evaluated in ten post mortem and four living patients. Outcome was evaluated in six dogs and one cat. In dogs, the calculated median needle placement error was 1.8 mm (range 0.71–2.84 mm) and 1.53 mm (range 1.45–1.99 mm) for piriform lobe and thalamus target sites, respectively. In cats, the calculated median needle placement error was 0.79 mm (range 0.6–1.91 mm) for the piriform lobe target site and 1.29 mm (range 0.47–2.69 mm) for the thalamic target site. The diagnostic yield was 96.4% (95% CI 0.81–0.99), the diagnostic accuracy was 94.4% (95% CI 0.72–0.99). Median total procedural duration for post mortem biopsies was 57.5 min (range 41–69 min). Median total procedural duration for intra vitam biopsies was 122.5 min (range 103–136 min). Three dogs were discharged 1 day after biopsy and one dog after 6 days. Two dogs and one cat were euthanized 24 and 48 h after biopsy. Intraoperative CBCT-based automated image registration for frameless stereotactic biopsies in companion animals is capable of providing diagnostic brain biopsy specimens independent of skull size and morphology with diagnostic yield and accuracy comparable to published values for diverse frameless and frame-based stereotaxy systems used in veterinary medicine. Duration of the procedure is not negatively affected and within the published range with other systems. Mobile intraoperative CBCT-based registration combined with neuronavigation delivers diagnostic brain biopsies in companion animals.
Mediastinal Fibrosarcoma in a Dog–Case Report
Authors: McGrath Alysha M. , Salyer Sarah A. , Seelmann Amanda , Lundberg Alycen P. , Leonard Melissa R. , Lorbach Joshua N. , Lumbrezer-Johnson Sarah , Hostnik Eric T. , Tremolada Giovanni , Lapsley Janis , Selmic Laura E.
Published: February 2022

This represents the first published case report of mediastinal fibrosarcoma in a dog. An 8-year-old male neutered mixed breed dog was presented for evaluation of lethargy and increased panting. Thoracic focused assessment with sonography for trauma revealed moderate pleural effusion. Thoracic radiograph findings were suggestive of a cranial mediastinal mass. Computed tomography revealed a mass within the right ventral aspect of the cranial mediastinum. On surgical exploration, a cranial mediastinal mass with an adhesion to the right cranial lung lobe was identified and removed en-bloc using a vessel sealant device and requiring a partial lung lobectomy. Histopathology results described the cranial mediastinal mass as fibrosarcoma with reactive mesothelial cells identified within the sternal lymph node. The patient was treated with systemic chemotherapy following surgical removal. To date, the dog has survived 223 days following diagnosis with recurrence noted 161 days following diagnosis and radiation therapy was initiated. Primary cranial mediastinal fibrosarcoma while a seemingly rare cause of thoracic pathology in dogs, should be considered in the differential diagnosis for a cranial mediastinal mass.
High-Precision Displacement and Force Hybrid Modeling of Pneumatic Artificial Muscle Using 3D PI-NARMAX Model
Authors: Qin Yanding , Xu Yuankai , Shen Chenyu , Han Jianda
Published: February 2022

Pneumatic artificial muscle (PAM) is attractive in rehabilitation and biomimetic robots due to its flexibility. However, there exists a strong hysteretic nonlinearity in PAMs and strong coupling between the output displacement and the output force. At present, most commonly used hysteresis models can be treated as two-dimensional models, which only consider the nonlinearity between the input and the output displacement of the PAM without considering the coupling of the output force. As a result, high-precision modeling and estimation of the PAM’s behavior is difficult, especially when the external load of the system varies significantly. In this paper, the influence of the output force on the displacement is experimentally investigated. A three-dimensional model based on the modified Prandtl–Ishlinskii (MPI) model and the Nonlinear AutoRegressive Moving Average with eXogenous inputs (NARMAX) model is proposed to describe the relationship and couplings among the input, the output displacement, and the output force of the PAM. Experiments are conducted to verify the modeling accuracy of the proposed model when the external load of the PAM varies across a wide range. The experimental results show that the proposed model captures well the hysteresis and couplings of the PAM and can precisely predict the PAM’s behavior.
Utilizing Mediterranean Plants to Remove Contaminants from the Soil Environment: A Short Review
Authors: Solomou Alexandra D. , Germani Rafaelia , Proutsos Nikolaos , Petropoulou Michaela , Koutroumpilas Petros , Galanis Christos , Maroulis Georgios , Kolimenakis Antonios
Published: February 2022

The use of contaminated soils in food production imposes the need for the reduction in heavy metals concentrations, using various techniques, in order to eliminate the toxic effects of pollution and ensure safety in the consumption of agricultural products. Phytoremediation is a promising, effective, and publicly acceptable method to remove soils’ toxicity. This study aims to investigate the current knowledge on plants’ metal tolerance mechanisms, the use of Mediterranean plants in phytoremediation, and the economic perspective for its application on large scales. A total of 166 research studies were systematically reviewed, based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The findings indicate that phytoremediation has more advantages compared to other techniques. It can be a sustainable and affordable option, especially for developing countries, due to the relatively low application and maintenance costs. Many hyperaccumulating plants have been identified that can be used in soil cleansing, enhancing the applicability and replicability of the method. The selection of the appropriate plant species is based on their specific physiological characteristics to remove undesirable elements from the soils and, in certain cases, there is a preference for use of non-native species. However, such species may exhibit invasive behaviors, introducing high uncertainties and risks in the preservation of local ecosystems, especially in the Mediterranean zone, since they can have a serious impact on the environmental and ecological dynamics of the local plant communities. The use of native plants is generally more advantageous since they are better acclimated, have no effects on the local ecological balance, and can eliminate the legal restrictions for their use (seed availability, planting, etc.).
Fine-Tuning N Fertilization for Forage and Grain Production of Barley–Field Bean Intercropping in Mediterranean Environments
Authors: Pampana Silvia , Arduini Iduna , Andreuccetti Victoria , Mariotti Marco
Published: February 2022

Optimizing the productivity and efficiency of cereal–legume intercropping through exploiting differences in nitrogen (N) acquisition of the two crops is crucial in Mediterranean areas. A two-year field study was conducted in Central Italy to determine how N fertilization rate affected forage and grain production as well as intercropping efficiency in a barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) and field bean (Vicia faba L. var minor) intercrop. Crops were grown as monocrops or intercropped in alternate rows in an additive design and fertilized with five N rates from 0 to 200 kg ha−1. Forage production was determined both at heading and early dough, while grain yield was assessed at full ripening. Besides, land equivalent ratio, competitive ratio, and aggressivity index were calculated. Consistently between years, results highlighted that intercropping of barley with field bean can be a sustainable cropping system because both forage production and efficiency indices improved. Anyway, with 150 and 200 kg N ha−1, the grain yield was lower in intercropping than in sole crops, due to higher interspecific competition. We concluded that the optimal N fertilization depends on the farmer’s objective in terms of forage or grain production and the targeted proportion between the cereal and the legume at harvest.
Accidental Introduction and Spread of Top Invasive Alien Plants in the European Union through Human-Mediated Agricultural Pathways: What Should We Expect?
Authors: Montagnani Chiara , Gentili Rodolfo , Brundu Giuseppe , Caronni Sarah , Citterio Sandra
Published: February 2022

Alien species are among the five drivers of environmental change with the largest relative global impacts. In particular, horticulture is a major introduction pathway of alien plants, but, together with intentional introductions, plants can also be introduced and spread via human-mediated involuntary pathways as contaminants and stowaways. Recurring accidental introductions of alien plants to new areas can be the prelude to invasion on a large scale. Agriculture represents a sector that is severely impacted by invasive alien species and, at the same time, it is likely to be one of the main factors responsible of biological invasions. So, the present review highlights risks related to accidental introduction though human-mediated agricultural pathways of a politically relevant group of alien plants, invasive alien plants of Union concern (IAPUC), that are species whose prevention and management is mandatory in the European Union according to Regulation (EU) n. 1143/2014. Even if most IAPUC have been primarily introduced as economic plants, several accidental pathways related to agriculture can be identified for each one of them. The implementation of technologies and the sharing of good practices, at a wide scale and at different levels of the society, would help in overcoming several problematic issues related to the accidental transport of IAPUC.
Individuals Matter: Dilemmas and Solutions in Conservation and Animal Welfare Practices in Zoos
Authors: Clay Anne Safiya , Visseren-Hamakers Ingrid J.
Published: February 2022

Compassionate conservation advocates for minimizing individual suffering in conservation practice and adheres to the principle “individuals matter”—intrinsically, in and of themselves. Our objective is to determine the extent to which, and how, zoos recognize the intrinsic value of wild individuals beyond their status as members of species or ecosystems. We analyzed discourses surrounding the Smithsonian National Zoo in the U.S.A., the zoos of the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle in France, and the Seoul Grand Park Zoo in South Korea. Using existing literature on zoos, conservation, animal welfare, and rights, we distilled two discourses (justificatory and abolitionist). Through interviews with professionals in the zoo, conservation, welfare, and animal rights communities, we demonstrate how actors frame individual zoo animals as (1) sentient persons, (2) reproductive components, and (3) species ambassadors. Our analysis shows how actors’ views shape three zoo practices related to ex situ conservation: (1) captivity, (2) captive breeding, and (3) culling. This analysis revealed two significant findings. First, actors representing the justificatory discourse fail to frame animals as intrinsically valuable individuals. Second, within the constraints of the zoo, the intrinsic value of individual animals is recognized through welfare practices and education focused on fulfilling animal interests.
Reaching the Monophyly: Re-Evaluation of the Enigmatic Species Tenuibiotus hyperonyx (Maucci, 1983) and the Genus Tenuibiotus (Eutardigrada)
Authors: Stec Daniel , Morek Witold
Published: February 2022

Revisions and redescriptions of taxa described in the past and that are now categorized as insufficiently diagnosed often play a crucial role in making further progress in modern taxonomy in many groups of organisms. Here we revised an enigmatic tardigrade species Tenuibiotus hyperonyx (Maucci, 1983) based on the newly discovered topotypic population from the Italian Alps. We performed an integrative analysis of morphological and genetic data in order to present an upgraded species description and elucidate its phylogenetic position. Our results enabled us to confidently place T.hyperonyx within the family Richtersiusidae, as a member of the genus Diaforobiotus. This change, together with a re-assessment of microphotographs of the Tenuibiotus willardi (Pilato, 1977) and Tenuibiotus bozhkae Pilato, Kiosya, Lisi, Inshina & Biserov, 2011 types, led to the discussion on species composition with narrative taxa amendments for the taxonomic parties involved in the proposed alteration.
Carcass Yields and Meat Composition of Male and Female Italian Slow-Growing Chicken Breeds: Bianca di Saluzzo and Bionda Piemontese
Authors: Bongiorno Valentina , Schiavone Achille , Renna Manuela , Sartore Stefano , Soglia Dominga , Sacchi Paola , Gariglio Marta , Castillo Annelisse , Mugnai Cecilia , Forte Claudio , Bianchi Chiara , Mioletti Silvia , Gasco Laura , Biasato Ilaria , Brugiapaglia Alberto , Sirri Federico , Zampiga Marco , Gai Francesco , Marzoni Margherita , Cerolini Silvia , Dabbou Sihem
Published: February 2022

The slaughter performance and meat quality of two native Italian chicken breeds, Bionda Piemontese (BP, n = 64) and Bianca di Saluzzo (BS, n = 64), were investigated. Two-way ANOVA, considering breed, sex, and their interaction, was used to compare the properties of birds slaughtered at 5, 6, 7, and 8 months of age. Subsequently, data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and the Duncan test to evaluate the differences between slaughter ages. The BP breed produced a better carcass yield than BS at 5, 7, and 8 months of age (p < 0.05). Breast moisture and crude protein contents were influenced by gender, and were higher in males than in females (p < 0.05). By contrast, the crude fat content was higher in females than in males (p < 0.05). The saturated fatty acid content of breast meat increased as the birds aged in both breeds (p < 0.05). The polyunsaturated fatty acid content of both breast and thigh meat was higher in males than in females (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively). In general, slaughtering at 7 months was associated with the best slaughter and meat quality characteristics in both breeds. Moreover, from a nutritional point of view, the characteristics of the meat from male birds were preferable to those of meat from females.
Probiotics in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Schuurman Alex R. , Kullberg Robert F. J. , Wiersinga Willem Joost
Published: February 2022

The understanding of the gut microbiome in health and disease has shown tremendous progress in the last decade. Shaped and balanced throughout life, the gut microbiome is intricately related to the local and systemic immune system and a multitude of mechanisms through which the gut microbiome contributes to the host’s defense against pathogens have been revealed. Similarly, a plethora of negative consequences, such as superinfections and an increased rate of hospital re-admissions, have been identified when the gut microbiome is disturbed by disease or by the iatrogenic effects of antibiotic treatment and other interventions. In this review, we describe the role that probiotics may play in the intensive care unit (ICU). We discuss what is known about the gut microbiome of the critically ill, and the concept of probiotic intervention to positively modulate the gut microbiome. We summarize the evidence derived from randomized clinical trials in this context, with a focus on the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia. Finally, we consider what lessons we can learn in terms of the current challenges, efficacy and safety of probiotics in the ICU and what we may expect from the future. Throughout the review, we highlight studies that have provided conceptual advances to the field or have revealed a specific mechanism; this narrative review is not intended as a comprehensive summary of the literature.
Bio-Evaluation of the Wound Healing Activity of Artemisia judaica L. as Part of the Plant’s Use in Traditional Medicine; Phytochemical, Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antibiofilm Properties of the Plant’s Essential Oils
Authors: Mohammed Hamdoon A. , Qureshi Kamal A. , Ali Hussein M. , Al-Omar Mohsen S. , Khan Omar , Mohammed Salman A. A.
Published: February 2022

Artemisia judaica (ArJ) is a Mediterranean aromatic plant used traditionally to treat gastrointestinal ailments, skin diseases, atherosclerosis, and as an immuno-stimulant. This study describes ArJ essential oil constituents and investigates their wound healing activity. The in vitro antioxidant and antibiofilm activities of ArJ essential oil were investigated. The in vivo pro/anti-inflammatory and oxidative/antioxidant markers were compared with standard silver sulfadiazine (SS) in a second-degree skin burn experimental rat model. The gas chromatography-equipped flame ionization detector (GC-FID) analysis of ArJ essential oil revealed the major classes of compounds as oxygenated monoterpenes (>57%) and cinnamic acid derivatives (18.03%). The antimicrobial tests of ArJ essential oil revealed that Bacillus cereus, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus niger were the most susceptible test organisms. Two second-degree burns (each 1 inch square in diameter) were created on the dorsum of rats using an aluminum cylinder heated to 120 °C for 10 s. The wounds were treated either with ArJ or SS ointments for 21 days, while the negative control remained untreated, and biopsies were obtained for histological and biochemical analysis. The ArJ group demonstrated a significant increase in antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymatic activities, while lipid peroxide (LP) levels remained insignificant compared to the negative control group. Additionally, ArJ and SS groups demonstrated a significant decrease in inflammatory levels of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) compared to the negative group, while interleukin 1 beta (IL-1b) and IL-6 were comparable to the negative group. At the same time, anti-inflammatory IL-10 and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-b1) markers increased significantly in the ArJ group compared to the negative control. The ArJ results demonstrated potent wound healing effects, comparable to SS, attributable to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects as well as a high proportion of oxygenated monoterpenes and cinnamate derivatives.
The Functional Interplay between Gut Microbiota, Protein Hydrolysates/Bioactive Peptides, and Obesity: A Critical Review on the Study Advances
Authors: Aloo Simon Okomo , Oh Deog-Hwan
Published: February 2022

Diet is an essential factor determining the ratio of pathogenic and beneficial gut microbiota. Hydrolysates and bioactive peptides have been described as crucial ingredients from food protein that potentially impact human health beyond their roles as nutrients. These compounds can exert benefits in the body, including modulation of the gut microbiota, and thus, they can reduce metabolic disorders. This review summarized studies on the interaction between hydrolysates/peptides, gut microbes, and obesity, focusing on how hydrolysates/peptides influence gut microbiota composition and function that improve body weight. Findings revealed that gut microbes could exert anti-obesity effects by controlling the host’s energy balance and food intake. They also exhibit activity against obesity-induced inflammation by changing the expression of inflammatory-related transcription factors. Protein hydrolysates/peptides can suppress the growth of pro-obesity gut bacteria but facilitate the proliferation of those with anti-obesity effects. The compounds provide growth factors to the beneficial gut bacteria and also improve their resistance against extreme pH. Hydrolysates/peptides are good candidates to target obesity and obesity-related complications. Thus, they can allow the development of novel strategies to fight incidences of obesity. Future studies are needed to understand absorption fate, utilization by gut microbes, and stability of hydrolysates/peptides in the gut under obesity.
Study on Identification Method of Motion States at Interface for Soil-Structure Interaction Damping System
Authors: Zhang Zhiying , Li Ying , Yin Yihe , Han Zhiyu
Published: February 2022

The damping system characterizes the spatial distribution of structural energy dissipation. Identifying a damping system is the premise for determining the dynamic analysis method. Concepts of nonlinear processes and non-classical damping systems are often confused without theoretical primary and experimental verification. This paper proposes an identification method of damping systems based on motion states at the interface by analyzing the correlation between the damping system and dynamic characteristics. The relationship between the change of damping system type and relative motion states at the interface is studied by investigating multiple material properties through shaking table model tests of a large-scale soil-structure interaction (SSI) system. The results show that a nonlinear system can demonstrate the characteristics of the classical damping system as soon as there is no mutation of motion states at the interface of the system. The identification method of damping system based on motion states at the interface can reflect the change of dynamical characteristics of the system under linear and nonlinear processes.