bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single, but not dual, attack by a biotrophic pathogen and a sap-sucking insect affects the oak leaf metabolome
Authors: van Dijk Laura J. A. , Regazzoni Emilia D. E. , Albrectsen Benedicte R. , Ehrlén Johan , Abdelfattah Ahmed , Stenlund Hans , Pawlowski Katharina , Tack Ayco J. M.
Published: August 2022

Plants interact with a multitude of microorganisms and insects, both below- and above ground, which might influence plant metabolism. Despite this, we lack knowledge of the impact of natural soil communities and multiple aboveground attackers on the metabolic responses of plants, and whether plant metabolic responses to single attack can predict responses to dual attack. We used untargeted metabolic fingerprinting (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, GC-MS) on leaves of the pedunculate oak, Quercus robur, to assess the metabolic response to different soil microbiomes and aboveground single and dual attack by oak powdery mildew (Erysiphe alphitoides) and the common oak aphid (Tuberculatus annulatus). Distinct soil microbiomes were not associated with differences in the metabolic profile of oak seedling leaves. Single attacks by aphids or mildew had pronounced but different effects on the oak leaf metabolome, but we detected no difference between the metabolomes of healthy seedlings and seedlings attacked by both aphids and powdery mildew. Our findings show that aboveground attackers can have species-specific and non-additive effects on the leaf metabolome of oak. The lack of a metabolic signature detected by GC-MS upon dual attack might suggest the existence of a potential negative feedback, and highlights the importance of considering the impacts of multiple attackers to gain mechanistic insights into the ecology and evolution of species interactions and the structure of plant-associated communities, as well as for the development of sustainable strategies to control agricultural pests and diseases and plant breeding.
Exogenous melatonin strongly affects dynamic photosynthesis and enhances water-water cycle in tobacco
Authors: Sun Hu , Wang Xiao-Qian , Zeng Zhi-Lan , Yang Ying-Jie , Huang Wei
Published: August 2022

Melatonin (MT), an important phytohormone synthesized naturally, was recently used to improve plant resistance against abiotic and biotic stresses. However, the effects of exogenous melatonin on photosynthetic performances have not yet been well clarified. We found that spraying of exogenous melatonin (100 μM) to leaves slightly affected the steady state values of CO2 assimilation rate (AN), stomatal conductance (gs) and mesophyll conductance (gm) under high light in tobacco leaves. However, this exogenous melatonin strongly delayed the induction kinetics of gs and gm, leading to the slower induction speed of AN. During photosynthetic induction, AN is mainly limited by biochemistry in the absence of exogenous melatonin, but by CO2 diffusion conductance in the presence of exogenous melatonin. Therefore, exogenous melatonin can aggravate photosynthetic carbon loss during photosynthetic induction and should be used with care for crop plants grown under natural fluctuating light. Within the first 10 min after transition from low to high light, photosynthetic electron transport rates (ETR) for AN and photorespiration were suppressed in the presence of exogenous melatonin. Meanwhile, an important alternative electron sink, namely water-water cycle, was enhanced to dissipate excess light energy. These results indicate that exogenous melatonin upregulates water-water cycle to facilitate photoprotection. Taking together, this study is the first to demonstrate that exogenous melatonin inhibits dynamic photosynthesis and improves photoprotection in higher plants.
Transcriptomic and physiological responses of contrasting maize genotypes to drought stress
Authors: Wang Yifan , Guo Haoxue , Wu Xi , Wang Jiarui , Li Hongjie , Zhang Renhe
Published: August 2022

Drought is a significant environmental stress factor that adversely affects maize productivity. However, many details regarding the molecular mechanisms of maize against drought are still unclear. In this study, leaf transcriptomics and physiological traits of two maize genotypes with differing drought resistance were analyzed. Transcriptome sequencing identified 8985 and 7305 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in SD902 and SD609, respectively. Functional analysis suggested that numerous genes are highly involved in oxidative defense, protein modification, photosynthesis, phytohormone response, MAPK signaling, and transcription factors (TFs). Compared to SD902, SD609 had a higher expression of DEGs related to antioxidant enzymes, photosynthetic electron transport, heat shock proteins, and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) signaling under drought conditions, which might contribute to its tolerance mechanisms to drought. Stress-induced TFs may play a crucial regulatory role in genotypic differences. Moreover, the physiological changes and gene expression abundance determined using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction were consistent with the RNA sequencing data. The study results suggest that the higher drought tolerance of SD609 than SD902 can be attributed to stronger stress defense capabilities, IAA signal transduction, and more stable photosynthesis. Our findings provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of maize against drought stress, and the candidate genes identified may be used in breeding drought-tolerant maize cultivars.
Improved salinity and dust stress tolerance in the desert halophyte Haloxylon aphyllum by halotolerant plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria
Authors: Najafi Zilaie Mahmood , Mosleh Arani Asghar , Etesami Hassan , Dinarvand Mehri
Published: August 2022

Because of global warming, desertification is increasing. One of the best strategies for combating desertification is reforestation of forests and biological operations of vegetation. However, events like soil salinity and dust storms, as the most important manifestations of desertification, prevent vegetation from settling in these areas. In this study, the effects of two halotolerant plant growth-promoting rhizobacterial strains, Bacillus pumilus HR and Zhihengliuella halotolerans SB, on physiological and nutritional status of the desert halophyte Haloxylon aphyllum under the stress of salinity (0, 300, and 600 mM NaCl) and dust (0 and 1.5 g m−2 month−1) were examined. Under dust application, the Z. halotolerans SB strain compared to the B. pumilus HR strain and the combination of these two bacterial strains improved the content of total chlorophyll (247 and 316%), carotenoid (94 and 107%), phosphorus (113 and 209%), magnesium (196 and 212%), and total dry biomass (13 and 28%) in H. aphyllum at salinity levels of 300 and 600 mM NaCl, respectively. Under conditions of combined application of dust and salinity, B. pumilus HR compared to Z. halotolerans SB and the combination of two strains at salinity levels of 300 and 600 mM NaCl, respectively, had better performance in increasing the content of iron (53 and 69%), calcium (38 and 161%), and seedling quality index (95 and 56%) in H. aphyllum. The results also showed that both bacterial strains and their combination were able to reduce the content of ascorbic acid, flavonoid, total phenol, proline, and malondialdehyde, and catalase activity, and ultimately improve the antioxidant capacity of H. aphyllum. This showed that the use of halotolerant rhizobacteria can stop the production of free radicals and thus prevent cell membrane damage and the formation of malondialdehyde under salinity and dust stress. The results of this study for the first time showed that halotolerant rhizobacteria can increase the seedling quality index of H. aphyllum under combined conditions of salinity and dust. The use of these bacteria can be useful in the optimal afforestation of H. aphyllum species in arid and semi-arid ecosystems.
Synergistic Effect of Azotobacter nigricans and Nitrogen Phosphorus Potassium Fertilizer on Agronomic and Yieldtraits of Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Sagar Alka , Sayyed R. Z. , Ramteke Pramod W. , Ramakrishna Wusirika , Poczai Peter , Al Obaid Sami , Ansari Mohammad Javed
Published: August 2022

Plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB)Azotobacterspp. is the most promising bacteria among all microorganisms. It is an aerobic, free-living, and N2-fixing bacterium that commonly lives in soil, water, and sediments. It can be used as a biofertilizer for plant growth and nutrient utilization efficiency. Maize is the highly consumed cereal food crop of the cosmopolitan population, and the sustainable maize productivity achieved by applying bacteria in combination with nitrogen phosphorus potassium (NPK) is promising. In the present study, a bacterial isolate (PR19).Azotobacter nigricans, obtained from the soil of an organic farm was evaluated for its plant growth promoting potential alone and in combination with an inorganic fertilizer (NPK) included. The bacterial cultue (PR19) was screened for its morphological, biochemical, and plant growth-promoting characteristics, sequenced by the 16S rDNA method, and submitted to NCBI for the confirmation of strain identification. Further, the inoculation effect of the bacterial culture (PR19) in combination with NPK on growth and yield parameters of maize under pot were analyzed. Based on phenotypic and molecular characteristics, PR19 was identified asAzotobacter nigricansit was submitted to NCBI genbank under the accession No.KP966496. The bacterial isolate possessed multiple plant growth-promoting (MPGP) traits such as the production of ammonia, siderophore, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), and ACC Deaminase (ACCD). It showed phosphate solubilization activity and tolerance to 20% salt, wide range of pH 5–9, higher levels of trace elements and heavy metals, and resistance to multiple antibiotics. PR19 expressed significantly increased (p< 0.001) antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, and GSH) under the abiotic stress of salinity and pH.In vitrocondition, inoculation of maize with the PR19 showed a significant increase in seed germination and enhancement in elongation of root and shoot compared to untreated control. The combined application of the PR19 and NPK treatments showed similar significant results in all growth and yield parameters of maize variety SHIATS-M S2. This study is the first report on the beneficial effects of organic farm isolated PR19-NPK treatment combinations on sustainable maize productivity.
The class III peroxidase gene family is involved in ascorbic acid induced delay of internal browning in pineapple
Authors: Hou Xiaowan , Lu Zhiwei , Hong Keqian , Song Kanghua , Gu Hui , Hu Wei , Yao Quansheng
Published: August 2022

Excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) leads to potential toxicity in an organism. Class III peroxidases (PRXs) play an important role in maintaining ROS homeostasis in plants. Internal browning (IB) limits industrial development of pineapple, which is the third most important fruit trade in the world. IB is mainly caused by ROS, and the mechanism underlying IB is still unknown from the perspective of ROS. Here, we soaked pineapples in ascorbic acid after harvest and before storage to decrease excessive ROS and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity, ultimately restraining the spread and deterioration of IB. Using phylogenetic analysis; we identified 78 pineapple PRX genes (AcPRXs) and divided them into five subgroups. Gene structure analysis indicated that the exon numbers ranged from 2 to 14, and conserved motif analysis verified that all of the AcPRXs identified here have standard peroxidase domains. Analysis of duplication events suggested that tandem and segmental duplication events may have played equal and important roles in expanding the AcPRX family. Comprehensive transcriptomic analysis uncovered that AcPRXs may play an important role in negatively regulating the occurrence of IB. In summary, we found that ROS scavenging delayed IB occurrence. The results of characterized AcPRX family revealed that AcPRXs family responded to growth and development, and negatively regulated to IB occurrence in storage stage. This research provides potential target genes for future in-depth analysis of the molecular mechanisms underlying IB and contributes to develop IB-resistant pineapple varieties.
Continuously applying compost for three years alleviated soil acidity and heavy metal bioavailability in a soil-asparagus lettuce system
Authors: Chen De , Ye Xuezhu , Jiang Yugen , Xiao Wendan , Zhang Qi , Zhao Shouping , Shao Sainan , Gao Na , Huang Miaojie , Hu Jing
Published: August 2022

Soil acidification and heavy metal pollution are two common barrier factors threatening plant growth and agro-product quality. Applying manure compost is promising to alleviate soil acidity, while it may increase heavy metal accumulation in soil. In a 3-year field experiment, compost was applied for 12 consecutive harvest seasons at 15, 30, and 45 t ha−1 in a slightly acidic soil. Samples were taken at the twelfth season to examine the changes of soil properties, vegetable productivity, heavy metal accumulation and bioavailability in the soil-asparagus lettuce system. The results showed that the pH values of the topsoil were increased by 0.49–0.75 units in compost added soils compared with no compost control, soil organic matter (SOM) contents and cation exchange capacity (CEC) were increased by 34–101% and 43–44%, respectively. The soil nutrient contents were also increased in compost treatments. Continuously applying compost increased Cd, Cu, and Zn concentrations in topsoil by up to 32, 20, and 22% and decreased Pb by 10%, while soil available Cd and Zn concentrations were reduced by up to 54 and 86%, and available Cu was increased by 19–63%. The biomass of asparagus lettuce was increased by 30–59% in compost treatments, with Cd and Zn concentrations in the plant tissues reduced by 28–50% and 14–67%. Cu concentrations in the lettuce shoots were increased by 20–39%. The concentration factor and total uptake of Cd and Zn in lettuce were effectively reduced in compost treatments. Cd was more prone to be taken up, translocated and accumulated from soil to the lettuce plant than the other heavy metals. Continuously applying compost over 3 years increased soil pH, SOM, CEC, nutrient contents, and lettuce productivity, decreased Cd and Zn bioavailability in the soil-lettuce system, while posing a risk of increasing heavy metal accumulation in topsoil.
Genetic and transcriptome analyses reveal the candidate genes and pathways involved in the inactive shade-avoidance response enabling high-density planting of soybean
Authors: Zhao Jing , Shi Xiaolei , Chen Lei , Chen Qiang , Tian Xuan , Ai Lijuan , Zhao Hongtao , Yang Chunyan , Yan Long , Zhang Mengchen
Published: August 2022

High-density planting is a major way to improve crop yields. However, shade-avoidance syndrome (SAS) is a major factor limiting increased planting density. First Green Revolution addressed grass lodging problem by using dwarf/semi-dwarf genes. However, it is not suitable for soybean, which bear seeds on stalk and whose seed yield depends on plant height. Hence, mining shade-tolerant germplasms and elucidating the underlying mechanism could provide meaningful resources and information for high-yield breeding. Here, we report a high-plant density-tolerant soybean cultivar, JiDou 17, which exhibited an inactive SAS (iSAS) phenotype under high-plant density or low-light conditions at the seedling stage. A quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping analysis using a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population showed that this iSAS phenotype is related to a major QTL, named shade-avoidance response 1 (qSAR1), which was detected. The mapping region was narrowed by a haplotype analysis into a 554 kb interval harboring 44 genes, including 4 known to be key regulators of the SAS network and 4 with a variance response to low-light conditions between near isogenic line (NIL) stems. Via RNA-seq, we identified iSAS-specific genes based on one pair of near isogenic lines (NILs) and their parents. The iSAS-specific genes expressed in the stems were significantly enriched in the “proteasomal protein catabolic” process and the proteasome pathway, which were recently suggested to promote the shade-avoidance response by enhancing PIF7 stability. Most iSAS-specific proteasome-related genes were downregulated under low-light conditions. The expression of genes related to ABA, CK, and GA significantly varied between the low- and normal-light conditions. This finding is meaningful for the cloning of genes that harbor beneficial variation(s) conferring the iSAS phenotype fixed in domestication and breeding practice.
Effectiveness of school-based brief cognitive behavioral therapy with mindfulness in improving the mental health of adolescents in a Japanese school setting: A preliminary study
Authors: Kato Kiun , Matsumoto Yuki , Hirano Yoshiyuki
Published: August 2022

Background

Emotional regulation is important for adolescents’ adaptive development. Preventive interventions for anxiety and depression are necessary for reducing the development of disorders later in life, and emotional regulation is a potentially relevant factor.

Objective

We investigated the effects of a mindfulness-based psychological education and prevention program [the Mindfulness and Awareness Program (MAP)] on the mental health of junior high school students in Japan.

Methods

Our MAP primarily focused on mindfulness meditation to improve emotional regulation, thereby reducing depression and anxiety. The MAP comprised eight sessions (20 min each) administered by a school counselor in a school setting. All participants (N = 349) were 12–13-year-old adolescents from nine classes in two Japanese schools. The program was provided to the intervention group, wherein students were educated on emotional expression, emotional cognition, and emotional regulation. The control group received regular school counseling services.

Results

Compared with the control group, the intervention group showed significant improvement in emotional regulation and a decrease in depression and generalized anxiety. The effect was greater at the follow-up assessment than at the immediate post-intervention assessment, and greater in female students.

Conclusion

Our mental health prevention program exhibited efficacy in reducing depression and anxiety and enhancing emotional regulation in early adolescence. Further, it appeared to be more effective for female adolescents.
Teaching data science to undergraduate translation trainees: Pilot evaluation of a task-based course
Authors: Yan Da , Wang Junyue
Published: August 2022

The advancement in technology has changed the workflow and the role of human translator in recent years. The impact from the trend of technology-mediated translation prompted the ratification of technology literacy as a major competence for modern translators. Consequently, teaching of translation technology including but not limited to Computer-aided Translation (CAT) and Machine Translation (MT) became part of comprehensive curricula for translation training programs. However, in many institutions, the teaching of translation technology was haunted by issues such as: narrow scope of curriculum design, outdated technologies, and unbalance between theories and practices in teaching. The study was the pilot evaluation of a tailored course to foster translation trainees’ knowledge and abilities of data science. The course was designed to be a fundamental step toward sophisticated translation technologies. During the pilot evaluation of the 8-week course, 85 students (n = 85) were recruited as participants. The study adopted a mix-method design by employing a survey to investigate student’s level of satisfaction toward the course and focus group discussion to understand students’ attitudes and perceptions of key aspects of the course. By interpreting the results from statistical analysis of the survey (5.39/7) and thematic analysis of the focus group discussion, the course of data science for translators was well received among participants. The evaluation project manifested the feasibility and effectiveness of a translator-oriented data science course.
Positive and psycho-pathological aspects between shame and shamelessness
Authors: Saya Anna , Di Ciaccia Gregorio , Niolu Cinzia , Siracusano Alberto , Melis Marianna
Published: August 2022

Interpersonal relationships represent an essential aspect of mental wellbeing and social functioning. If all the symptoms contain a relational meaning, shame represents the relational affect par excellence both in terms of its origin and its purpose. This paper aims to highlight the role of shame as an affect inherent in the rhythmic nature of the encounter with the other, as well as the pathological elements of this aspect in both its conscious and unconscious dimensions. There is a heterogeneous quantitative and qualitative declination of shame, or of the defenses against this affect, among the various pathologies. We consider the fundamental needs of belonging and acceptance and the parallel abandonment anguish from various psychoanalytic and philosophical theoretical perspectives and then analyze the link between their dissatisfaction and the origin of shame. We also touch on the different interpretaions of shame based on eastern and western cultural norms. These hypotheses are closely intertwined with the beliefs of classical psychopathology. The role of the body in the encounter with the other and in the experience of shame is also examined. In particular, we study the role of this affect in schizophrenia, depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.
Cross-cultural validity of the Death Reflection Scale during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ramsenthaler Christina , Baumann Klaus , Büssing Arndt , Becker Gerhild
Published: August 2022

Background

The global COVID-19 pandemic confronts people with their fragility, vulnerability, and mortality. To date, scales to measure death awareness mainly focus on the anxiety-provoking aspect of mortality cues. This study aims to cross-culturally adapt and validate the Death Reflection Scale (DRS), a scale for measuring positive, growth-oriented cognitions of life reflection and prosocial behavior following confrontation with the finiteness of life.

Materials and Methods

The Death Reflection Scale was translated and adapted in a multi-step process to the German language. In this anonymous, cross-sectional, online survey at a large university in Germany, students, healthcare professionals (HCP) and other staff completed the DRS alongside comparison measures. Multi-group confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess configural, metric, and scalar measurement equivalence across four age and occupational groups. Convergent/divergent validity testing was done via Spearman correlations.

Results

1,703 participants provided data for a response rate of ∼5%. 24% of respondents were HCP, 22% students. Confirmatory factor analysis showed a higher-order structure of the DRS with a strong general factor and the originally proposed five subscales (CFI 0.945, SRMR 0.045, RMSEA 0.055). Multi-group CFA showed partial metric equivalence across age groups and partial scalar invariance across occupational groups. Non-invariant scales were the Motivation to live, Putting life into perspective, and Legacy subscales. In the convergent validity testing, two hypotheses were fully confirmed, two partially and four were not confirmed. Experiencing a propensity for increased contemplation and life reflection during the pandemic together with spirituality showed correlations of moderate to large size to the DRS and its subscales (Spearman’s rho ranging from 0.31 to 0.52).

Conclusion

Further conceptual work for death awareness to explore the construct’s stability in different population groups needs to be undertaken. However, the DRS can be mostly used to assess positive and growth-oriented aspects of death awareness and death reflection which may be an important avenue when developing counseling and support interventions for groups experiencing a high burden during the pandemic.
Remember the past, plan for the future: How interactions between risk perception and behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic can inform future Canadian public health policy
Authors: Law Moira A. , Wilbiks Jonathan M. P. , Roach Sean P. , Best Lisa A.
Published: August 2022

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the implementation of numerous temporary public health policies, including social distancing, masking, and movement limitations. These types of measures require most citizens to follow them to be effective at a population level. This study examined population adherence to emergency public health measures using early data collected in the Spring of 2020, when all Canadian jurisdictions were under relatively strict measures. In total, 1,369 participants completed an online questionnaire package to assess adherence, perceptions of government response, and perceptions of COVID-19 risk. Results indicated that most Canadians were pleased with the government's handling of the early phases of the pandemic and immediately engaged new public health mandates. Willingness to change behaviors was unrelated to satisfaction with the government response. Similarly, behavioral adherence was also unrelated to satisfaction with government, or personal risk perceptions; however, adherence to public health guidelines was related to elevated psychological distress. As the pandemic continues, public health officials must balance the mental health of the population with the physical health concerns posed by COVID-19 when applying public health mandates.
High burden of self-reported sexually transmitted infections among female sex workers in Togo in 2021
Authors: Bitty-Anderson Alexandra M. , Gbeasor-Komlanvi Fifonsi A. , Bakoubayi Akila W. , Tchankoni Martin K. , Sadio Arnold J. , Salou Mounerou , Dagnra Claver A. , Ekouevi Didier K. , Coffie Patrick A.
Published: August 2022

Background

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) remain a public health challenge, especially for Female Sex Workers (FSW) who are particularly vulnerable. In sub-Saharan Africa where the overlapping epidemics of STI and HIV are concentrated among key populations, epidemiological data are needed in order to better understand STI trends in this population. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of self-reported STI symptoms and their risk factors among FSW in Togo in 2021.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was completed in June and July 2021 among FSW in two cities of Togo: in Lomé (capital city, south of Togo) and in Kara (north of Togo). A snowball sampling method was used and after consent, a standardized questionnaire was administered by trained research staff to collect information on STI. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with self-reported STI.

Results

A total of 447 FSW, 300 in Lomé and 147 in Kara participated in this study. Median age was 30 [IQR: 24–38] and STI symptoms in the previous 12 months were reported by 191 FSW [42.7%, 95% CI: (38.1–47.5)], among whom 116 (60.7%) sought medical care. The most common reported symptoms were abnormal vaginal discharge (n = 78; 67.2%) and vaginal itching (n = 68; 58.6%). Current STI symptoms (at the time of the survey) were reported by 88 FSW (19.7%). In multivariable logistic regression, self-reported STI symptoms in the previous 12 months was negatively associated with living in the Lomé and older age and positively associated with having more than 15 clients in the previous week and being victim of violence.

Conclusions

Findings from this study reveal that the self-reported STI burden is relatively high among FSW Togo. Additional strategies are needed at the structural, medical, political and social levels to curb this trend and effectively aim at the elimination of STI epidemics by the year 2030.
Music-based casual video game training alleviates symptoms of subthreshold depression
Authors: Li Ximeng , Zheng Moyi , Zhang Yuchang , Wang Yueyun , Nie Lu , Yuan Yuan , Qian Tianyi , Ku Yixuan
Published: August 2022

Objectives

In this preregistered study, we investigated the beneficial effects of music-based casual video game training on the depression, anxiety and stress symptoms in a cohort of young individuals with subthreshold depression and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

The study included 56 young individuals (18–26 years of age) with subthreshold or mild depression based on the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) scores between 14 and 19. They were randomly assigned into the experimental group (n= 28) or the control group (n= 28). The experimental group underwent music-based casual video game training for 4 weeks. During the same time, the control group participants conducted daily life activities without any intervention. The study participants in the two groups were analyzed using the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) during the baseline before the intervention, as well as DASS-21, Positive and negative Affect Scale (PANAS), General Self-efficacy Scale (GSES), and the Emotional Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ) twice a week during the 4 weeks of intervention.

Results

The depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms were significantly reduced in the experimental group participants after 4 weeks of music-based video game training compared with the control group. The DAS scores in the experimental group were alleviated in the third and fourth weeks of training compared with the control group. Moreover, analysis using the general linear model demonstrated that the number of training weeks and self-efficacy were associated with significant reduction in depression, anxiety and stress. Furthermore, our results demonstrated that self-efficacy was correlated with positive emotion and emotional regulation.

Conclusion

Our study showed that music-based casual video game training significantly decreased depression, anxiety, and stress in the young individuals with subthreshold depression by enhancing self-efficacy.
Pediatric dentists' participation in advocacy and acceptance of new medicaid children in clinical practice
Authors: Singh Arjun Deo , Lavin Jenna , DiStefano Caitlin , Chon Eun , Weinstein Stephanie , Slutsky Samantha , Bhoopathi Vinodh
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Advocacy involves promoting a noble cause or voicing on behalf of a program, policy, or population group. Previous literature shows that dentists who provide services to Medicaid-enrolled, underserved, and vulnerable children are more compassionate than those who do not.

Aim

To explore the association between pediatric dentists' (PDs) participation in various advocacy-related activities (ARAs) and their monthly acceptance of new Medicaid-enrolled children in their clinical practice to provide dental care services.

Methods

A 14-item pilot-tested survey was created on the SurveyMonkey® online platform and emailed to 5591 PDs, active American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry members. Data from 789 PD respondents were analyzed. Frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations were used to describe the sample. Independent t-tests and chi-square tests assessed the differences between PDs accepting new Medicaid-enrolled children in their clinical practice every month vs. PDs who did not. A multivariable adjusted logistic regression model determined if there was an association between PDs' participation in ARAs and their acceptance of new Medicaid-enrolled children in their clinical practice, controlling for other independent variables.

Results

The mean number of different ARAs performed by PDs was 2.2 ± 1.8. Approximately 65% reported that they accepted new Medicaid-enrolled children every month in their dental clinic to provide dental care services. The multivariable logistic regression model showed that the odds of a PD accepting new Medicaid-enrolled children every month increased by 13% for each additional unit increase in ARA completed, with other variables being held constant (Odds ratio: 1.13, 95% CI: 1.03–1.25, p = 0.01).

Conclusion

PDs who performed more ARAs had greater odds of accepting new Medicaid-enrolled children into their dental practice every month. Education and training in oral health advocacy during dental education for dental students may promote performing ARAs and providing dental care services to Medicaid patients after graduation.
A socio-ecological approach to align tree stewardship programs with public health benefits in marginalized neighborhoods in Los Angeles, USA
Authors: de Guzman Edith B. , Escobedo Francisco J. , O'Leary Rachel
Published: August 2022

Extreme heat in the United States is a leading cause of weather-related deaths, disproportionately affecting low-income communities of color who tend to live in substandard housing with limited indoor cooling and fewer trees. Trees in cities have been documented to improve public health in many ways and provide climate regulating ecosystem services via shading, absorbing, and transpiring heat, measurably reducing heat-related illnesses and deaths. Advancing “urban forest equity” by planting trees in marginalized neighborhoods is acknowledged as a climate health equity strategy. But information is lacking about the efficacy of tree planting programs in advancing urban forest equity and public wellbeing. There is a need for frameworks to address the mismatch between policy goals, governance, resources, and community desires on how to green marginalized neighborhoods for public health improvement—especially in water-scarce environments. Prior studies have used environmental management-based approaches to evaluate planting programs, but few have focused on equity and health outcomes. We adapted a theory-based, multi-dimensional socio-ecological systems (SES) framework regularly used in the public health field to evaluate the Tree Ambassador, orPromotor Forestal, program in Los Angeles, US. The program is modeled after the community health worker model—where frontline health workers are trusted community members. It aims to address urban forest equity and wellbeing by training, supporting, and compensating residents to organize their communities. We use focus groups, surveys, and ethnographic methods to develop our SES model of community-based tree stewardship. The model elucidates how interacting dimensions—from individual to society level—drive urban forest equity and related public health outcomes. We then present an alternative framework, adding temporal and spatial factors to these dimensions. Evaluation results and our SES model highlight drivers aiding or hindering program trainees in organizing communities, including access to properties, perceptions about irrigation responsibilities, and lack of trust in local government. We also find that as trainee experience increases, measures including self- and collective efficacy and trust in their neighbors increase. Findings can inform urban forestry policy, planning, and management actions at the government and non-profit levels that aim to increase tree cover and reduce heat exposure in marginalized communities.
Comparison of PKRP and TUVP in the treatment of high-risk BPH and analysis of postoperative influencing factors
Authors: Song Yao , Pang Songqiang , Luo Gongtang , Li Sen , He Yaqiang , Yang Jinqiang
Published: August 2022

Objective

This study aims to compare the efficacy of plasma kinetic loop resection of the prostate (PKRP) and transurethral vaporization of the prostate (TUVP) for the treatment of high-risk benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and analyze the influence of the related factors on the operation of BPH.

Methods

A total of 108 high-risk BPH patients diagnosed in our hospital from March 2018 to September 2021 were selected and randomly divided into an observation group and a control group, with 54 cases in each group. The control group was treated with TUVP, and the observation group was treated with PKRP. The international prostate symptom score (IPSS), quality of life (QOL) index, maximum urine flow rate (Qmax), and residual urine volume (RU) were observed before and after treatment. The general information such as age, educational level, residence, and residence status of the patient, as well as clinical information such as surgical method, nocturia frequency, preoperative IPSS score, RU, medical history, and prostate texture, were also recorded. All patients were followed up for 1 month, and complications were recorded.

Results

The IPSS score, QOL score, and RU of patients in the two groups were lower after treatment than those before treatment, and the Qmax was higher than that before treatment (P < 0.05). The IPSS score, QOL score, and RU of the observation group were lower than those of the control group, and the Qmax was higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05). The incidence of postoperative complications in the observation group was lower than in the control group (P < 0.05). Univariate analysis showed that the patient's age, surgical method, nocturia frequency, preoperative IPSS score, RU, medical history, and prostatic texture all could affect the postoperative condition of patients with BPH (P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic analysis showed that the patient's age, surgical method, nocturia frequency, preoperative IPSS score, RU, and medical history were the independent influencing factors of the postoperative condition of patients with BPH (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

PKRP in the treatment of high-risk BPH patients can effectively reduce the IPSS score, QOL score, and RU and significantly increase Qmax, with fewer complications and a good prognosis. Patients’ postoperative recovery was related to their age, surgical method, nocturia frequency, preoperative IPSS score, RU, and medical history. Therefore, choosing PKRP to treat high-risk BPH patients can effectively improve the postoperative urethral functional recovery of patients and reduce the occurrence of complications.
Intraoperative tissue classification methods in orthopedic and neurological surgeries: A systematic review
Authors: Massalimova Aidana , Timmermans Maikel , Esfandiari Hooman , Carrillo Fabio , Laux Christoph J. , Farshad Mazda , Denis Kathleen , Fürnstahl Philipp
Published: August 2022

Accurate tissue differentiation during orthopedic and neurological surgeries is critical, given that such surgeries involve operations on or in the vicinity of vital neurovascular structures and erroneous surgical maneuvers can lead to surgical complications. By now, the number of emerging technologies tackling the problem of intraoperative tissue classification methods is increasing. Therefore, this systematic review paper intends to give a general overview of existing technologies. The review was done based on the PRISMA principle and two databases: PubMed and IEEE Xplore. The screening process resulted in 60 full-text papers. The general characteristics of the methodology from extracted papers included data processing pipeline, machine learning methods if applicable, types of tissues that can be identified with them, phantom used to conduct the experiment, and evaluation results. This paper can be useful in identifying the problems in the current status of the state-of-the-art intraoperative tissue classification methods and designing new enhanced techniques.
Application of Least-Squares Support-Vector Machine Based on Hysteresis Operators and Particle Swarm Optimization for Modeling and Control of Hysteresis in Piezoelectric Actuators
Authors: Baziyad Ayad G. , Nouh Adnan S. , Ahmad Irfan , Alkuhayli Abdulaziz
Published: August 2022

Nanopositioning systems driven by piezoelectric actuators are widely used in different fields. However, the hysteresis phenomenon is a major factor in reducing the positioning accuracy of piezoelectric actuators. This effect makes the task of accurate modeling and position control of piezoelectric actuators challenging. In this paper, the learning and generalization capabilities of the model are efficiently enhanced to describe and compensate for the rate-independent and rate-dependent hysteresis using a kernel-based learning method. The proposed model is inspired by the classical Preisach hysteresis model, in which a set of hysteresis operators is used to address the problem of mapping, and then least-squares support-vector machines (LSSVM) combined with a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm are used for identification. Two control schemes are proposed for hysteresis compensation, and their performance is evaluated through real-time experiments on a nanopositioning platform. First, an inverse model-based feedforward controller is designed based on the LSSVM model, and then a combined feedback/feedforward control scheme is designed using a classical control strategy (PID) to further enhance the tracking performance. For performance evaluation, different datasets with a variety of hysteresis loops are used during the simulation and experimental procedures. The results show that the proposed method is successful in enhancing the generalization capabilities of LSSVM training and achieving the best tracking performance based on the combination of feedforward control and PID feedback control. The proposed control scheme outperformed the inverse Preisach model-based control scheme in terms of both positioning accuracy and execution time. The control scheme that uses the LSSVM based on nonlinear autoregressive exogenous (NARX) models has significantly less computational complexity compared to our control scheme but at the expense of accuracy.
Estimating Yield-Related Traits Using UAV-Derived Multispectral Images to Improve Rice Grain Yield Prediction
Authors: Bascon Maria Victoria , Nakata Tomohiro , Shibata Satoshi , Takata Itsuki , Kobayashi Nanami , Kato Yusuke , Inoue Shun , Doi Kazuyuki , Murase Jun , Nishiuchi Shunsaku
Published: August 2022

Rice grain yield prediction with UAV-driven multispectral images are re-emerging interests in precision agriculture, and an optimal sensing time is an important factor. The aims of this study were to (1) predict rice grain yield by using the estimated aboveground biomass (AGB) and leaf area index (LAI) from vegetation indices (VIs) and (2) determine the optimal sensing time in estimating AGB and LAI using VIs for grain yield prediction. An experimental trial was conducted in 2020 and 2021, involving two fertility conditions and five japonica rice cultivars (Aichinokaori, Asahi, Hatsushimo, Nakate Shinsenbon, and Nikomaru). Multi-temporal VIs were used to estimate AGB and LAI throughout the growth period with the extreme gradient boosting model and Gompertz model. The optimum time windows for predicting yield for each cultivar were determined using a single-day linear regression model. The results show that AGB and LAI could be estimated from VIs (R2: 0.56–0.83 and 0.57–0.73), and the optimum time window for UAV flights differed between cultivars, ranging from 4 to 31 days between the tillering stage and the initial heading stage. These findings help researchers to save resources and time for numerous UAV flights to predict rice grain yield.
Training of Farmers’ Cooperatives, Value Perception and Members’ Willingness of Green Production
Authors: Luo Lei , Qiao Dakuan , Tang Jin , Wan Ailin , Qiu Ling , Liu Xiaoyu , Liu Yuying , Fu Xinhong
Published: August 2022

The issue of environmental pollution caused by traditional agricultural production operations is becoming increasingly serious. Farmers are the direct actors of production, and their willingness to green production deserves the greatest attention. Technical training conducted by farmers’ cooperatives worldwide in recent years appears to have changed farmers’ willingness to adopt green production technologies, but there is a lack of empirical testing of the impact mechanisms. Therefore, based on a sample of 1147 members of China’s citrus production cooperatives, we theoretically and empirically explored the impact of this; the mechanism of the effect was analyzed through the endogeneity treatment and robustness test of farmers’ value perception, as well as the instrumental variable method (IV-Oprobit). The results showed that farmers’ overall willingness to adopt green production technologies was low, and increasing the number of training sessions in farmers cooperatives could significantly enhance their willingness. Specifically, the probability of members being “very willing” to adopt technologies increased by 3.2% for each additional training session in cooperatives. Additionally, cooperative training can significantly improve members’ technology applicability and benefit–cost perceptions of green production technologies, thus enhancing their willingness to adopt; both types of value perceptions are important transmission mediators of this effect, and the mediation effects account for 5.98 and 14.53% of the total effect, respectively. Other than that, the results of the heterogeneity analysis showed that the effect of cooperative training on the willingness to adopt them was positively significant regardless of small-, medium- or large-scale members, with the most significant effect on small-scale farmers. This study provides a better understanding of the impact of technical training of cooperatives on farmers’ willingness, contributes to the enrichment of value perception theory, and provides a basis for formulating relevant policies to encourage cooperatives to perform their training function and promote green production in agriculture.
Carbon Footprint Analysis for Biomass-Fueled Combined Heat and Power Station: A Case Study
Authors: Zheng Yingying , Liu Chang , Zhu Jie , Sang Yuanrui , Wang Jinglong , Zhao Wenjing , Zhuang Minghao
Published: August 2022

Biomass could substitute fossil fuels in heat- and power-generation projects to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas from many stages of the life cycle. The Nordjylland Power Station, one of Denmark’s largest power plants, is a 100% coal-fired combined heat and power plant. To reduce carbon dioxide emissions, this power plant is converting to be 100% biomass-fueled. However, biomass cannot be assumed as an emission-free energy source, even though it has certain advantages in terms of carbon sink capability. The environmental impacts among various biomass sources are unclear. Wheat straw and wood pellets are two of the most abundant biomass resources in Denmark. In this study, by conducting a screening life-cycle assessment, the expected savings of global warming potential emissions due to the substitution of coal with wheat straw or wood pellets are quantified. The life-cycle assessment’s results indicate that for producing 1 MJ of heat, the carbon dioxide equivalent from coal, wheat straw, and wood pellets are 117.01, 22.73, and 78.19 g, respectively. The combustion stage accounts for most of the carbon dioxide emissions. The recommendation is that wheat straw is preferred over wood pellets in terms of carbon emissions based on the current assumptions.