bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MeNPF4.5 Improves Cassava Nitrogen Use Efficiency and Yield by Regulating Nitrogen Uptake and Allocation
Authors: Liang Qiongyue , Dong Mengmeng , Gu Minghua , Zhang Peng , Ma Qiuxiang , He Bing
Published: April 2022

Improving nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) is a very important goal of crop breeding throughout the world. Cassava is an important food and energy crop in tropical and subtropical regions, and it mainly use nitrate as an N source. To evaluate the effect of the nitrate transporter gene MeNPF4.5 on the uptake and utilization of N in cassava, two MeNPF4.5 overexpression lines (MeNPF4.5 OE-22 and MeNPF4.5 OE-34) and one MeNPF4.5 RNA interference (RNAi) line (MeNPF4.5 Ri-1) were used for a tissue culture experiment, combining with a field trial. The results indicated that MeNPF4.5 is a plasma membrane transporter mainly expressed in roots. The gene is induced by NO3–. Compared with the wild type, MeNPF4.5 OE-22 exhibited improved growth, yield, and NUE under both low N and normal N levels, especially in the normal N treatment. However, the growth and N uptake of RNAi plants were significantly reduced, indicating poor N uptake and utilization capacity. In addition, photosynthesis and the activities of N metabolism-related enzymes (glutamine synthetase, glutamine oxoglutarate aminotransferase, and glutamate dehydrogenase) of leaves in overexpression lines were significantly higher than those in wild type. Interestingly, the RNAi line increased enzymatic activity but decreased photosynthesis. IAA content of roots in overexpressed lines were lower than that in wild type under low N level, but higher than that of wild type under normal N level. The RNAi line increased IAA content of roots under both N levels. The IAA content of leaves in the overexpression lines was significantly higher than that of the wild type, but showed negative effects on that of the RNAi lines. Thus, our results demonstrated that the MeNPF4.5 nitrate transporter is involved in regulating the uptake and utilization of N in cassava, which leads to the increase of N metabolizing enzyme activity and photosynthesis, along with the change of endogenous hormones, thereby improving the NUE and yield of cassava. These findings shed light that MeNPF4.5 is involved in N use efficiency use in cassava.
The Multifaceted Roles of MYC2 in Plants: Toward Transcriptional Reprogramming and Stress Tolerance by Jasmonate Signaling
Authors: Song Cheng , Cao Yunpeng , Dai Jun , Li Guohui , Manzoor Muhammad Aamir , Chen Cunwu , Deng Hui
Published: April 2022

Environmental stress is one of the major restrictions on plant development and foodstuff production. The adaptive response in plants largely occurs through an intricate signaling system, which is crucial for regulating the stress-responsive genes. Myelocytomatosis (MYC) transcription factors are the fundamental regulators of the jasmonate (JA) signaling branch that participates in plant development and multiple stresses. By binding to the cis-acting elements of a large number of stress-responsive genes, JA-responsive transcription factors activate the stress-resistant defense genes. The mechanism of stress responses concerns myriad regulatory processes at the physiological and molecular levels. Discovering stress-related regulatory factors is of great value in disclosing the response mechanisms of plants to biotic or abiotic stress, which could guide the genetic improvement of plant resistance. This review summarizes recent researches in various aspects of MYC2-mediated JA signaling and emphasizes MYC2 involvement in plant growth and stress response.
Phenomenological Qualitative Methods Applied to the Analysis of Cross-Cultural Experience in Novel Educational Social Contexts
Authors: Alhazmi Ahmed Ali , Kaufmann Angelica
Published: April 2022

The qualitative method of phenomenology provides a theoretical tool for educational research as it allows researchers to engage in flexible activities that can describe and help to understand complex phenomena, such as various aspects of human social experience. This article explains how to apply the framework of phenomenological qualitative analysis to educational research. The discussion within this article is relevant to those researchers interested in doing cross-cultural qualitative research and in adapting phenomenological investigations to understand students’ cross-cultural lived experiences in different social educational contexts.
Mediating Role of Psychological Inflexibility as Transdiagnostic Factor in the Relationship Between Emotional Dysregulation and Sleep Problems With Symptoms of Emotional Disorders
Authors: Orouji Farrin , Abdi Reza , Chalabianloo Gholamreza
Published: April 2022

This study aims to investigate the mediating role of psychological inflexibility as a transdiagnostic factor in the relationship between emotional dysregulation and sleep problems with symptoms of emotional disorders. A total of 500 subjects from three universities were selected by random multistage clustering, and they completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Difficulties in Emotional Regulation Scale, and Acceptance and Action Questionnaire–II, Inventory of Depression and Anxiety Symptoms. The results of correlation coefficients revealed that there is a positive and significant correlation among emotional dysregulation, sleep problems, and psychological inflexibility with emotional disorders. In addition, the results showed that psychological inflexibility acts as a transdiagnostic factor that mediates the relationship between emotional dysregulation and sleep problems with symptoms of emotional disorders. These findings illustrate how emotional dysregulation and sleep problems affect emotional disorders through psychological inflexibility.
Epistemological Beliefs and Writing Self-Efficacy as Predictors of Second Language Writing Anxiety: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach
Authors: Heidarzadi Mohamad , Barjesteh Hamed , Nasrollahi Mouziraji Atefeh
Published: April 2022

This study was carried out to investigate the roles of epistemic beliefs (EBs) and writing self-efficacy (WSE) in predicting second language writing anxiety (L2WA) among learners of English as a foreign language (EFL). To this end, three validated scales were distributed among 240 EFL students. They were asked to complete the questionnaires during their regular courses. A structural equation modeling (SEM) approach was utilized to analyze the hypothesized SEM model and the causal paths among the constructs. The direct and indirect path analyses of the hypothesized model indicated that EBs and WSE accounted for 43% of the variance in L2WA. Although both constructs (i.e., EBs and WSE) had a significant effect on L2WA, EBs turned out to be a robust predictor of increasing L2WA. Notably, it was revealed that learners’ EBs directly and significantly influenced their L2WA. Besides, the results indicated that WSE had a unique effect in reducing L2WA. More precisely, students who had a higher level of EBs seemed to have a greater L2WA, and those who had a higher level of WSE experienced less L2WA. The findings of this explanatory study suggest that L2 teachers and material developers should pay serious attention to the Students’ cognitive and affective variables as they were known to be significant factors in influencing L2WA.
The Role of Sex in Intimate Relationships: An Exploration Based on Martin Buber’s Intersubjective Theory
Authors: Zhang Wei
Published: April 2022

On the basis of Buber’s distinction between “I-It” and “I-Thou” relationships, this paper explores the role of sex in intimate relationships by analyzing research in the fields of psychoanalysis and attachment theory. In the “I-Thou” relationship mode, both parties are often able to fully participate in the current sexual behavior and respond wholeheartedly. When there is incoordination (or even conflict) in sexual activities, they can negotiate sincerely, and can even repair the relationship if it breaks down. In the “I-It” relationship mode, sex exists more as a tool to achieve a certain purpose (e.g., economic guarantee, sense of security and sense of control), and the intersubjective relatedness is abnormal: either the boundary will be blurred and others become my vassal (control strategy) or I become others’ vassal (compliance strategy); or the relatedness will be cut off, leading to loneliness or false independence (avoidance strategy).
Does Early Exposure to Chinese–English Biliteracy Enhance Cognitive Skills?
Authors: Yin Jing , Guan Connie Qun , Smolen Elaine R. , Geva Esther , Meng Wanjin
Published: April 2022

Clarifying the effects of biliteracy on cognitive development is important to understanding the role of cognitive development in L2 learning. A substantial body of research has shed light on the cognitive factors contributing to biliteracy development. Yet, not much is known about the effect of the degree of exposure to biliteracy on cognitive functions. To fill this research void, we measured three categories of biliteracy skills (language, reading, and cognitive–linguistic skills in both Chinese and English) jointly and investigated the effects of biliteracy skill performance in these three categories on cognitive skills (working memory and attentional control) in Chinese L1 children who were exposed to English as L2 beginning at age 3 (“early”) or in grade 3 (“late”). In this cross-sectional study, 10 parallel Chinese and English language, reading, and cognitive–linguistic measures were administered to emerging Chinese–English bilingual children in grade 3 (n = 178) and grade 6 (n = 176). The results revealed that early exposure to Chinese–English biliteracy enhanced cognitive skills but with a cost of a slight delay in performance on Chinese L1 language skills in grade 3 (but not in grade 6). Importantly, the present findings suggest that, in addition to universal and developmental processes, the cumulative effect of early and sustained bi-scriptal exposure enhances working memory and attention in school children.
To Buy or Not to Buy? A Research on the Relationship Between Traceable Food Extrinsic Cues and Consumers’ Purchase Intention
Authors: Ge Li
Published: April 2022

With the prevalence of traceability technology in the turbulent Internet age, traceable food has become an important tool in addressing food safety issues. Under the combined effect of frequent food safety problems and sustainable development of traceability industry, the research on traceable food consumer behavior has become more extensive. However, it is still not fully understood how the multiple information brought by traceability affects consumers’ purchase decision. This study proposes the effects of traceability knowledge, traceable information quality and traceable certification credibility on traceable food purchase intention via the mediation of perceived risk and perceived value, and integrates the moderating effect of peer influence in the context of Internet age into a research framework. The analytical results indicate that traceability knowledge, traceable information quality, and traceability certification credibility indirectly affect consumers’ traceable food purchase intention through perceived risk and perceived value, while traceability knowledge, perceived risk, and perceived value directly affect “traceable food purchase intention.” Furthermore, peer influence was found to be a significant moderator in the relationship between perceived risk (perceived value) and “traceable food purchase intention.” Finally, based on the research results, traceability companies are suggested to focus on cultivating the traceable consumption habits. Meanwhile, although traceable food quality is the top priority, companies should also attach importance to the communication and interaction with consumer.
Fibroblast Growth Factor 9 as a Potential Biomarker for Schizophrenia
Authors: Li Xiao-Ling , Yu Yun , Hu Yang , Wu Huan-Tong , Li Xue-Song , Chen Guang-Yang , Cheng Yong
Published: April 2022

Preclinical and clinical studies have suggested that fibroblast growth factor (FGF) system contributed to the onset and development of schizophrenia (SCZ). However, there was no strong clinical evidence to link an individual FGF with SCZ. In this study, we aim to measure blood FGF9 levels in the patients with SCZ with and/or without medication, and test whether FGF9 has a potential to be a biomarker for SCZ. We recruited 130 patients with SCZ and 111 healthy individuals, and the ELISA and qRT-PCR assays were used to measure serum FGF9 levels in the participants. ELISA assay demonstrated that serum FGF9 protein levels were dramatically reduced in first-episode, drug-free patients, but not in chronically medicated patients when compared to healthy control subjects. Further analysis showed that treatment of the first-episode, drug-free SCZ patients with antipsychotics for 8 weeks significantly increased the serum FGF9 levels. In addition, we found that blood FGF9 mRNA levels were significantly lower in first-onset SCZ patients than controls. Under the receiver operating characteristic curve, the optimal cutoff values for FGF9 protein level as an indicator for diagnosis of drug-free SCZ patients was projected to be 166.4 pg/ml, which yielded a sensitivity of 0.955 and specificity of 0.86, and the area under the curve was 0.973 (95% CI, 0.954-0.993). Furthermore, FGF9 had good performance to discriminate between drug-free SCZ patients and chronically medicated patients, the optimal cutoff value for FGF9 concentration was projected to be 165.035 pg/ml with a sensitivity of 0.86 and specificity of 0.919, and the AUC was 0.968 (95% CI, 0.944, 0.991). Taken together, our results for the first time demonstrated the dysregulation of FGF9 in SCZ, and FGF9 has the potential to be served as a biomarker for SCZ.
Teachers' Burnout Risk During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Relationships With Socio-Contextual Stress—A Latent Profile Analysis
Authors: Rǎducu Camelia-Mǎdǎlina , Stǎnculescu Elena
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to identify distinct burnout profiles of teachers and to examine their association with work-related stressors, such as workload, students' misbehavior, classroom resources, professional recognition needs and poor colleague relations, as well as socio-demographic variables. Survey data were collected from 330 kindergarten and primary school teachers (84 males, Mage = 38.3, SD = 9.14). The latent profile analysis revealed four distinct profiles. The antecedents of teacher burnout (TB) profiles were the stress generated by workload, students' misbehavior, and low professional recognition. The socio-demographic variables, with the exception of gender, were covariates of the TB profiles. The findings implies that career opportunities prospects, classroom management and time-management programs may be useful in preventing teacher burnout.
Children and Young People Presenting in a Pediatric Emergency Department in North-West England in Suicidal Crisis: An Exploratory Case Series Study
Authors: Ashworth Emma , Provazza Serena , McCarthy Molly , Saini Pooja
Published: April 2022

Suicide is a leading cause of death among children and young people (CYP) worldwide, and rates have been increasing in recent years. However, while evidence exists regarding factors associated with suicide and self-harm, there is limited information publicly available on the CYP who present in suicidal crisis. This is a case series study of CYP (aged 8–16) experiencing suicidal crisis who presented in an Emergency Department at a pediatric hospital in North-West England between March 2019 and March 2021 (n = 240). Clinical records were extracted and audited to explore demographic data, methods of recording patient attendance, the clinical pathways available and the patterns of pathway usage, and differences in CYP presentations before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Attendees were mostly White females, with a mean age of 13.5 years, and 24% had a diagnosed special educational need. “Social/social problems” was the most commonly used code for recording attendance (38%), and pathways varied depending on code used. A range of parental and familial factors were also identified. There were more CYP presenting with self-harm in addition to suicide ideation after the pandemic began (43 vs 27% pre-pandemic). This study provides the first clear insight into CYP who seek help at a North-West Emergency Department for suicidal crisis, and work is now needed to develop effective prevention strategies tailored toward the groups most at-risk.
Closing Sexual Health Service Gaps With a New Service Model in Germany: Performance of an on-Site Integrated, Cross-Sectoral, Low Threshold Sexually Transmitted Infections/HIV Counseling and Treatment Service
Authors: Müller Matthias C. , Usadel Susanne , Zimmermann Stefan , Fahrhöfer Andreas , Kern Winfried V. , Hoffmeister Ulrike , Rieg Siegbert
Published: April 2022

Purpose

In Germany, the incidence of bacterial sexual transmitted infections (STI) is on the rise and still high for HIV infections. The Center for Sexual Health Freiburg (CSHF) was established to offer low threshold access for STI/HIV counseling, testing, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and on-site treatment. The objective of this study was to analyze the performance of CSHF.

Methods

Longitudinal study that includes all clients presenting between 1 May 2020 and 28 February 2021 at CSHF and willing to sign informed consent.

Results

In the study period, 536 clients presented at CSHF of whom 417 clients were included in the study resulting in 668 client contacts. Clients' median age was 28.1 years (range: 18.0–73.1), 55.9% were men, 42.0% were women, 0.3% were transman, and 1.7% were not binary. Clients' sexual orientation was heterosexual (56.6%), homosexual men (26.2%), and bisexual (13.6%). STI screening resulted in the detection of any STI in 3.4% (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.7–6.1) of women, in 3.1% (95% CI: 0.0–6.5) of heterosexual men, and in 22.2% (95% CI: 13.0–31.5) of men having sex with men (MSM) not taking PrEP. Eighty-one MSM received PrEP with a total follow-up of 57.3 person-years and 0.44 STIs per person-year.

Conclusion

The substantial burden of STI in the study population emphasizes the need for regular and low threshold STI screening services. The concept of CSHF may facilitate access to STI/HIV counseling, testing, and PrEP for a wide spectrum of people and may prove to be an important contribution to the efforts to reduce STI and HIV incidence in Germany.
Identification of Cancer Related Risk and Protective Factors for American Indian Youth: A Mixed Studies Review
Authors: Nadeau Melanie , Wise Kathryn , Farfan Cuela Vianca , Olson Devon , Saravana Karan
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Many causes of cancer related morbidity and mortality can be traced back to childhood behaviors. The culmination of cancer related risk and protective factors impacting the health and wellbeing of American Indian youth is unknown. The aim of this Mixed Studies Review was to identify cancer related risk and protective factors among American Indian youth. Results will be shared with Tribal communities to inform surveillance efforts.

Methods

A Mixed Studies Review process was deemed most appropriate for the search process and data collection. Seven databases were included in the search along with 3 databases that were hand searched. Google Scholar and Google power searching were also conducted. Covidence was utilized for abstract and full-text review. Out of 1,512 articles, 75 articles were included for review and data from each article was sorted out into the levels of the social ecological model.

Results

After extracting significant cancer related risk and protective factors from the 75 relevant articles, cancer related themes were identified at the individual, relationship (family and non-family), community, institutional, and cultural levels of the social ecological model. It was observed that the risk and protective factor profile for substance use spanned all levels of the social ecological model, whereas physical health-diet indicators and sexual health indicators did not. Most articles (n = 58, 77%) focused on substance use-related risk and protective factors.

Discussion

The method that was used for this study can be utilized by other professionals researching risk and protective factors impacting the health and wellbeing of American Indian youth for a multitude of health outcomes. Tribal communities will be able to use the results from our literature review to inform the creation of a community specific data collection tool focused on cancer related risk and protective factors. Upon completion of the overarching research, results will be shared with the community and can be used to inform ongoing surveillance efforts, influence priorities for intervention and education work, and inform the management of resources. The continuation of community informed and driven research with Tribal communities is essential to the health and wellbeing of Tribal Nations as community grounded research is limited.
Effect of Virtual Reality on Balance Function in Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Wei , Hu Yuanyan , Li Junfeng , Chang Jindong
Published: April 2022

Virtual Reality (VR) therapy is popular in treating children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) as a new technology for rehabilitation. Nevertheless, no substantial evidence supporting VR therapy promotion has been developed to date. This study aimed to investigate the effects of VR therapy on balance in children with CP. We conducted a systematic search in PubMed and Web of Science (updated to December 30, 2021). The systematic review and meta-analysis included all randomized controlled trials that included children with CP. A total of 18 RCT studies were eligible for inclusion in the systematic review, and meta-analysis was performed on 16 of them. Results showed that the VR intervention was beneficial for balance (SMD 0.47 [95% CI, SD 0.28, 0.66]). We concluded that VR therapy interventions for children with CP have positive effects. However, cautious implementation is needed in clinical applications.
Belt and Road Environmental Implications for South Asia
Authors: Ali Majid , Faqir Khan , Haider Bilal , Shahzad Khurram , Nosheen Nosheen
Published: April 2022

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) can play a significant role in the sustainable development of South Asia if appropriately implemented. Apart from the economic, trade, and cultural benefits of this colossal infrastructure, less is known about its environmental impact on South Asia. This study looks closely at the potential impact of the BRI on the South Asian environment. This research is based on the government-issued environmental policies, peer-reviewed literature, media articles, and reports. It has been suggested that the BRI could have a negative impact on the South Asian environment, which provided if does not consider the Paris agreement with its partners in the region. The study suggests that partner countries should adopt the BRI project to the principles of environmental impact assessment.
Global Trends and Hot-Spots in Research on Virtual Simulation in Nursing: A Bibliometric Analysis From 1999 to 2021
Authors: Zhang Qian , Chen Jia , Liu Jing
Published: April 2022

Background

Virtual simulation has been widely used in nursing education and nursing training. This study aims to characterize the publications in terms of countries, institutions, journals, authors, collaboration relationships, and analyze the trends of virtual simulation in nursing research.

Methods

Publications regarding virtual simulation in nursing were retrieved from Web of Science core collection. Microsoft Excel 2010, VOSviewer were used to characterize the contributions of the authors, journals, institutions, and countries. The trends, hot-spots and knowledge network were analyzed by Citespace and VOSviewer.

Results

We identified 677 papers between 1999 and 2021. The number of publications grew slowly until 2019, after that, it got a sharp increase in 2020 and 2021. The USA, Canada and Australia were three key contributors to this field. Centennial College and University of San Paulo, University of Ottawa and Ryerson University were top major institutions with a larger number of publications. Verkuyl M was the most productive and highest cited author. Clinical Simulation in Nursing, Nurse Education Today, Journal of Nursing Education were the three productive journals. The foundational themes of virtual simulation research in nursing are “virtual learning during COVID-19, clinical nursing care, education in nurse practitioners, education technology”.

Conclusion

Virtual simulation in nursing field has attracted considerable attention during COVID-19 pandemic. The research hotspot is gradually shifting from clinical nursing care to studies of nursing education using different virtual simulation technologies
T-Cell Aging-Associated Phenotypes in Autoimmune Disease
Authors: Zhao Tuantuan V. , Sato Yuki , Goronzy Jorg J. , Weyand Cornelia M.
Published: April 2022

The aging process causes profound restructuring of the host immune system, typically associated with declining host protection against cancer and infection. In the case of T cells, aging leads to the accumulation of a diverse set of T-cell aging-associated phenotypes (TASP), some of which have been implicated in driving tissue inflammation in autoimmune diseases. T cell aging as a risk determinant for autoimmunity is exemplified in two classical autoimmune conditions: rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a disease predominantly affecting postmenopausal women, and giant cell arteritis (GCA), an inflammatory vasculopathy exclusively occurring during the 6th–9th decade of life. Pathogenic T cells in RA emerge as a consequence of premature immune aging. They have shortening and fragility of telomeric DNA ends and instability of mitochondrial DNA. As a result, they produce a distinct profile of metabolites, disproportionally expand their endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes and release excess amounts of pro-inflammatory effector cytokines. Characteristically, they are tissue invasive, activate the inflammasome and die a pyroptotic death. Patients with GCA expand pathogenic CD4+ T cells due to aberrant expression of the co-stimulatory receptor NOTCH1 and the failure of the PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint. In addition, GCA patients lose anti-inflammatory Treg cells, promoting tissue-destructive granulomatous vasculitis. In summary, emerging data identify T cell aging as a risk factor for autoimmune disease and directly link TASPs to the breakdown of T cell tolerance and T-cell-induced tissue inflammation.
Recent Advances on Drug Development and Emerging Therapeutic Agents Through Targeting Cellular Homeostasis for Ageing and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Azam Tayyiba , Zhang Hongyuan , Zhou Fangchao , Wang Xin
Published: April 2022

Ageing is a progressive physiological process mediated by changes in biological pathways, resulting in a decline in tissue and cellular function. It is a driving factor in numerous age-related diseases including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Cardiomyopathies, hypertension, ischaemic heart disease, and heart failure are some of the age-related CVDs that are the leading causes of death worldwide. Although individual CVDs have distinct clinical and pathophysiological manifestations, a disturbance in cellular homeostasis underlies the majority of diseases which is further compounded with aging. Three key evolutionary conserved signalling pathways, namely, autophagy, mitophagy and the unfolded protein response (UPR) are involved in eliminating damaged and dysfunctional organelle, misfolded proteins, lipids and nucleic acids, together these molecular processes protect and preserve cellular homeostasis. However, amongst the numerous molecular changes during ageing, a decline in the signalling of these key molecular processes occurs. This decline also increases the susceptibility of damage following a stressful insult, promoting the development and pathogenesis of CVDs. In this review, we discuss the role of autophagy, mitophagy and UPR signalling with respect to ageing and cardiac disease. We also highlight potential therapeutic strategies aimed at restoring/rebalancing autophagy and UPR signalling to maintain cellular homeostasis, thus mitigating the pathological effects of ageing and CVDs. Finally, we highlight some limitations that are likely hindering scientific drug research in this field.
Intersections of Personal Assistance Services for Rural Disabled People and Home Care Workers' Rights
Authors: Sage Rayna , Standley Krys , Mashinchi Genna M.
Published: April 2022

It is very difficult to find and keep workers to provide home-based care for disabled people, especially in rural places. There is a tension between the rights of disabled people and the rights of home-based personal care workers. In this brief review, we explore the intersections of historical and social forces that shaped federal-level policies for both disability rights and the rights of personal care workers, as well as the current state of the policies. This paper provides a narrow focus on federal policies relevant to both groups, while also considering how the urbancentric nature of advocacy and policymaking has failed to address important issues experienced by rural people. In addition to briefly reviewing relevant federal policies, we also explore sources of support and resistance and how urbanormativity, ableism, and sexism intersect to influence how the needs of people with disabilities and their personal care workers are conceptualized and addressed. We conclude with recommendations for how to better address the needs of rural people with disabilities using home-based personal care services and the workers who provide them.
Object Surface Recognition Based on Standing Waves in Acoustic Signals
Authors: Kumon Makoto , Fukunaga Rikuto , Manabe Tomoya , Nakatsuma Kei
Published: April 2022

This paper proposes the use of the standing waves created by the interference between transmitted and reflected acoustic signals to recognize the size and the shape of a target object. This study shows that the profile of the distance spectrum generated by the interference encodes not only the distance to the target, but also the distance to the edges of the target surface. To recognize the extent of the surface, a high-resolution distance spectrum is proposed, and a method to estimate the points on the edges by incorporating observations from multiple measurement is introduced. Numerical simulations validated the approach and showed that the method worked even in the presence of noise. Experimental results are also shown to verify that the method works in a real environment.
Reliability-Based Robust Multi-Objective Optimization (RBRMOO) of Chemical Process Systems: A Case Study of TEG Dehydration Plant
Authors: Mukherjee Rajib
Published: April 2022

Natural gas (NG) production has significantly increased in the past decade as new unconventional oil and gas wells are being discovered. NG as obtained from the wellhead requires processing before being considered as pipeline grade. The process consists of the removal of acidic gases followed by dehydration. NG processing is associated with toxic emission having substantial environmental and health impact. Difficulty in NG processing arises from varied flow rate and uncertain feed composition that provides a challenge in efficient design as well as finding the optimal operating condition. The present work used a stochastic approach to characterize natural gas composition and its importance on the product and waste emission is studied. Under the uncertain feed composition, optimal operating condition of the controllable variables was attained by a reliability-based robust multi-objective optimization (RBRMOO) technique that mitigates BTEX emission while fulfilling NG pipeline specification. Chemical process simulator is used to find the impact of the control process settings and variation of uncertain feed condition on NG dehydration and BTEX emission. The best prediction models were developed using machine learning algorithm, chosen from a family of metamodels. RBRMOO is performed using metaheuristic algorithm to determine the optimal process condition of the control variables. The impact of uncertain feed composition in process modeling and subsequent optimization demonstrates optimal process condition where the rate of emission is lower by ~83 ton/yr when compared to that from the deterministic model where median value of uncertain feed composition is used for analysis, portraying the limitations of traditional sustainability assessment methods that do not account for uncertainty.
Downstream Economic Implications of Predation in the South African Red Meat Industry
Authors: van Niekerk Hermias N. , Bahta Yonas T. , Maré Frikkie A.
Published: April 2022

Globally, predation is an important and ongoing problem facing the livestock sector. This study estimated the downstream economic impact of predation in the South African red meat industry using a recent South African Social Accounting Matrix (SAM) and a partial equilibrium model. Due to predation the total output decreased by R 3,806 million and R 648 million for large (cattle) and small livestock (sheep and goat), respectively. The result implies that the loss of livestock due to predation reduces the number of livestock available for marketing and the presence of predators influences the level and intensity of best management practices employed by the red meat industry. The findings of this study, which looked at the macroeconomic implications of predation in the South African red meat industry, as well as the biodiversity and ecology aspects of predation, could help government and policymakers develop appropriate policies and mitigation strategies to reduce prediction and prioritize strategies that will help lessen the impact of predation.
Mass- and Energy-Balance Modeling and Sublimation Losses on Dokriani Bamak and Chhota Shigri Glaciers in Himalaya Since 1979
Authors: Srivastava Smriti , Azam Mohd. Farooq
Published: April 2022

Available surface energy balance (SEB) studies on the Himalayan glaciers generally investigate the melt-governing energy fluxes at a point-scale. Further, the annual glacier-wide mass balance (Ba) reconstructions have often been performed using temperature-index (T-index) models. In the present study, a mass- and energy-balance model is used to simulate the Ba on Dokriani Bamak Glacier (DBG, central Himalaya) and Chhota Shigri Glacier (CSG, western Himalaya) using the bias-corrected ERA5 data from 1979 to 2020. The model is calibrated using in-situ Ba and validated against available in-situ altitudinal and geodetic mass balances. DBG and CSG show mean Ba of −0.27 ± 0.32 and −0.31 ± 0.38 m w.e. a−1 (meter water equivalent per year), respectively, from 1979 to 2020. Glacier-wide net shortwave radiation dominates the SEB followed by longwave net radiation, latent heat flux, and sensible heat flux. The losses through sublimation are around 22% on DBG and 20% on CSG to the total ablation with a strong spatial and temporal variability. Modeled Ba is highly sensitive to snow albedo —with sensitivities of 0.29 and 0.37 m w.e. a−1 for 10% change in the calibrated value—on DBG and CSG, respectively. The sensitivity of the modeled mean Ba to 1°C change in air temperature and 10% change in precipitation, respectively is higher on DBG (−0.50 m w.e. a−1°C−1, 0.23 m w.e. a−1) than the CSG (−0.30 m w.e. a−1°C−1, 0.13 m w.e. a−1). This study provides insights into the regional variations in mass-wastage governing SEB fluxes at a glacier-wide scale, which is helpful for understanding the glacier–climate interactions in the Himalaya and stresses an inclusion of sublimation scheme in T-index models.
Fishing for River Critters: the Importance of Wood as Bait
Authors: Wilbanks Kelsey , Mullis Damon L. , Colón-Gaud Checo
Published: April 2022

A river’s residents can tell us a lot about the health of their home. Groups of small insects and other river critters, called macroinvertebrates, can change if pollutants are affecting the river. We used snags in bags (basically pouches of wood and bark) as a new method for collecting critters in larger rivers in the southeast US. We compared the types and numbers of critters collected with snags to those collected with two other commonly used methods. We found snags to be a suitable method for collecting macroinvertebrates in large rivers, as these resemble an important habitat for river critters.
Influence of Repeated-Sprint Ability on the in-Game Activity Profiles of Semiprofessional Rugby Union Players According to Position
Authors: Glaise Paul , Morel Baptiste , Rogowski Isabelle , Cornu Brice , Martin Cyril
Published: April 2022

This study investigated the influence of repeated-sprint ability (RSA) on the activity of rugby union players in a competitive situation according to their position. Thirty-three semiprofessional rugby union players (age, 25.6 ± 4.3; height, 184.0 ± 8.0 cm; weight, 98.9 ± 13.9 kg, ~20 h training a week), divided into two position subgroups (forwards n = 20, backs n = 13) or four positional subgroups (front row and locks n = 13, back row n = 7, inside backs n = 6, outside backs n = 7), were tested. Their RSA was assessed with a 12 × 20 m sprint test over a 20 s cycle. GPS data (distance, acceleration, number of sprints, maximum velocity, and high-velocity running) and technical data were collected on 18 semiprofessional division rugby union games. In forwards, players with lower cumulated sprint time in the RSA test produced significantly more accelerations (ρ = −0.85, p < 0.001) and more combat actions per match minute (ρ = −0.69, p < 0.001). In backs, RSA was significantly correlated with high-intensity running [distance (ρ = −0.76), Vmax (ρ = −0.84), sprints frequency (ρ = −0.71), high-velocity running (ρ = −0.76), all p < 0.01]. Then, the players were divided into four subgroups (front row and locks, back row, inside backs and outside backs). RSA was significantly associated with the number of accelerations (ρ = −0.96, p <001) and combat actions in front row and locks (ρ = −0.71, p = 0.007). In the back row, RSA was correlated with distance (ρ = −0.96, p = 0.003) and the frequency of combat actions (ρ = −0.79, p = 0.04). In inside backs, RSA was significantly (all p < 0.01) correlated with distance (ρ = −0.81), number of accelerations (ρ = −0.94) and high-velocity running (ρ = −0.94), while in outside backs, RSA was associated with sprint frequency (ρ = −0.85) and the maximal in-game velocity reached (ρ = −0.89). These results demonstrate that RSA is associated with match running and combat activity performance (i) regardless of the position on the pitch and (ii) specifically for each player's position by improving the corresponding activity profile.
Response to a Water Bolus in Long Term Oral Contraceptive Users
Authors: Atkins Whitley C. , McDermott Brendon P. , Colburn Abigail T. , Kavouras Stavros A.
Published: April 2022

The purpose of our study was to determine the responses to an acute water bolus in long-term oral contraception (OCP) users. Seventeen female volunteers (27 ± 5 y, 64.1 ± 13.7 kg, 39.6 ± 5.9 kg/LBM) provided consent and enrolled in our study. All were long-term OCP users and participated in two trials, one during the active pill (High Hormone, HH) dose of their prescribed OCP and one during the sham pill (Low Hormone, LH) dose. Participants reported to the laboratory euhydrated, were fed breakfast, remained seated for 60 min and were provided a bolus of room temperature water in the amount of 12 mL/kg/LBM. Urine output over 180 min was measured. Nude body mass was measured pre- and post-trial. Urine specific gravity (USG) and urine osmolality were analyzed. Between trials, there were no differences in 3-h total urine volume (P = 0.296), 3-h USG (P = 0.225), 3-h urine osmolality (P = 0.088), or 3-h urine frequency (P = 0.367). Heart rate was not different between trials (P = 0.792) nor over time (P = 0.731). Mean arterial pressure was not different between trials (P = 0.099) nor over time (P = 0.262). Perceived thirst demonstrated a significant main effect for increasing over time regardless of trial (P < 0.001) but there was no difference between trials (P = 0.731). The urgency to void was not different between trials (P = 0.149) nor over time (P = 0.615). Plasma volume change was not different between trials (P = 0.847) (HH: −3.4 ± 5.0, LH post: −3.8 ± 4.5%) and plasma osmolality did not differ between trials (P = 0.290) nor over time (P = 0.967) (HH pre: 290 ± 4, HH post: 289 ± 4, LH pre: 291 ± 4, LH post: 291 ± 4 mosm/L). Blood glucose significantly decreased over time (P < 0.001) but there was no difference between trials (P = 0.780) (HH pre: 95.9 ± 113.9, HH post: 86.8 ± 6.5, LH pre: 95.9 ± 13.5, LH post: 84.6 ± 9.4 mmol/L). Copeptin concentration did not differ between phases of OCP use (P = 0.645) nor from pre- to post-trial (P = 0.787) Despite fluctuations in hormone concentrations, responses to a water bolus seem to be unaffected in OCP users in euhydrated, resting conditions.
Case Report: Effects of Multiple Seasons of Heavy Strength Training on Muscle Strength and Cycling Sprint Power in Elite Cyclists
Authors: Rønnestad Bent R.
Published: April 2022

Sprint performance is critical for endurance performance in sports characterized by multiple accelerations like a cross-country Olympic mountain bike (XCO MTB) race. There are indications that 10–25 weeks of heavy strength training (HST) can improve cycling sprint power in cyclists. However, there is a lack of data on the effect of continuing HST across several seasons. In the first part of this case report, two elite cyclists performed HST across two preparatory periods (i.e., 1.5 years), while two others continued with endurance training only. HST induced a mean increase in leg press force and cycling sprint power of 16% after the first preparatory period (November to April), which was maintained during the competition period. After the next preparatory period a further increase from the first test was achieved (22 and 19%, respectively). The two cyclists with no HST had no changes in leg press force and cycling sprint power. The second part contains data from two of the cyclists from the first part. One of them continued with HST for 2 more years and achieved a continuous increase in leg press force during all four preparatory periods, ending up with a total increase of 44% after 3.5 years, while the development of cycling sprint power had more variation with an apparent plateau from the third to fourth preparatory periods, ending up with an improvement of 25%. The other cyclist did not perform HST in the first part but started with HST and performed this across the last two preparatory periods. After two preparatory periods with HST (i.e., 1.5 years), the increased leg press force and cycling sprint power were 24 and 22%, respectively, which was in the same range as the improvement observed after 1.5 years of HST in the first part of this case report. The present data extend previous short-term studies indicating that HST can give reasonable muscle strength improvements in elite cyclists across multiple preparatory periods. Furthermore, the present data indicate that HST adaptations can be maintained across multiple competition periods. Cycling sprint power seems to approximately follow the development of leg press performance.
Estimating the Water and Carbon Footprints of Growing Avocados in the Munich Metropolitan Region Using Waste Heat as a Water-Energy-Food Nexus Potential
Authors: Becker Lukas , Gondhalekar Daphne
Published: April 2022

Avocados, which have been labeled a superfood and are very popular around the world, are often grown in areas with water scarcity and have long-distance transports to their end consumer. Water and carbon footprints could be reduced by using greenhouse farming, waste heat and rainwater. This study aims to determine whether avocados and other exotic fruits could be locally or regionally grown in greenhouse systems in Bavaria heated using waste heat and examines whether this approach decreases the resulting water and carbon footprints. To test these hypotheses, the waste heat potential is estimated by analyzing a database provided by the Bavarian Environment Agency. Data on water and carbon footprints are extracted from databases by The Water Footprint Network and FAOSTAT. As a local case study, a greenhouse system using waste heat of a nearby glass factory in Upper Franconia is considered. The results show a tremendous waste heat potential for Bavaria and Munich with reduced carbon, but similar water footprints compared to international avocado production. The required area for these avocado farms would only amount to 0.016% of Bavaria's or 0.02% of Munich's total area. With more uncomplicated handling and earlier fruit bearing, fruits like papaya, guava, or carambola seem to be better suited for greenhouse farming than avocados. Waste heat supported farming in controlled environments can require significantly less water through modern irrigation techniques and should be considered when designing new food security concepts for urban or rural areas.
Integrating RNAi Technology in Smallholder Farming: Accelerating Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Willow Jonathan , Veromann Eve
Published: April 2022

Approximately 84% of farms globally are <2 hectares; these and other smallholder farms collectively produce over one third of humanity's food. However, smallholder farms, particularly in developing countries, encounter difficulties in both production and profits due to their vulnerabilities. Sustainable intensification—increasing crop yield without significantly greater resource use—must be globally adopted in smallholder farming to achieve various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) endorsed by the United Nations (UN). While traditional techniques for conservation agriculture must be maintained and further promoted, new technologies will undoubtedly play a major role in achieving high yields in a sustainable and environmentally safe manner. RNA interference (RNAi) technology, particularly the use of transgenic RNAi cultivars and/or sprayable double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) pesticides, could accelerate progress in reaching these goals due to dsRNA's nucleotide sequence-specific mode of action against eukaryotic and viral pests. This sequence-specificity allows silencing of specific genetic targets in focal pest species of interest, potentially resulting in negligible effects on non-target organisms inhabiting the agroecosystem. It is our perspective that recent progress in RNAi technology, together with the UN's endorsement of SDGs that promote support in- and for developing countries, should facilitate an integrated approach to sustainable intensification of smallholder farms, whereby RNAi technology is used in combination with traditional techniques for sustainable intensification. However, the development of such approaches in developing countries will require developed countries to adhere to currently-defined socioeconomic SDGs.
Short-Course or Total Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Resectable and Borderline Resectable Pancreatic Cancer - Current Status and Future Perspectives
Authors: Labori Knut Jørgen
Published: April 2022

Neoadjuvant therapy improves overall survival compared with a surgery-first approach in patients with borderline resectable pancreatic cancer (BRPC). Evidence of higher quality is required to determine whether neoadjuvant therapy has potential benefits and improves survival for patients with resectable pancreatic cancer (RPC). Most randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have explored short-course neoadjuvant chemotherapy (SNT), but total neoadjuvant chemotherapy (TNT) is now the experimental arm of ongoing RCTs. This article reviews the current status of SNT and TNT in RPC and BRPC, and provides perspectives of future challenges and research directions in this field.