bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Periadventitial β-aminopropionitrile-loaded nanofibers reduce fibrosis and improve arteriovenous fistula remodeling in rats
Authors: Applewhite Brandon , Gupta Aavni , Wei Yuntao , Yang Xiaofeng , Martinez Laisel , Rojas Miguel G. , Andreopoulos Fotios , Vazquez-Padron Roberto I.
Published: February 2023

Background

Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) postoperative stenosis is a persistent healthcare problem for hemodialysis patients. We have previously demonstrated that fibrotic remodeling contributes to AVF non-maturation and lysyl oxidase (LOX) is upregulated in failed AVFs compared to matured. Herein, we developed a nanofiber scaffold for the periadventitial delivery of β-aminopropionitrile (BAPN) to determine whether unidirectional periadventitial LOX inhibition is a suitable strategy to promote adaptive AVF remodeling in a rat model of AVF remodeling.

Methods

Bilayer poly (lactic acid) ([PLA)-]- poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) ([PLGA)] scaffolds were fabricated with using a two-step electrospinning process to confer directionality. BAPN-loaded and vehicle control scaffolds were wrapped around the venous limb of a rat femoral-epigastric AVF during surgery. AVF patency and lumen diameter were followed monitored using Doppler ultrasound surveillance and flow was measured before euthanasia. AVFs were harvested after 21 days for histomorphometry and immunohistochemistry. AVF compliance was measured using pressure myography. RNA from AVF veins was sequenced to analyze changes in gene expression due to LOX inhibition.

Results

Bilayer periadventitial nanofiber scaffolds extended BAPN release compared to the monolayer design (p < 0.005) and only released BAPN in one direction. Periadventitial LOX inhibition led to significant increases in AVF dilation and flow after 21 days. Histologically, BAPN trended toward increased lumen and significantly reduced fibrosis compared to control scaffolds (p < 0.01). Periadventitial BAPN reduced downregulated markers associated with myofibroblast differentiation including SMA, FSP-1, LOX, and TGF-β while increasing the contractile marker MYH11. RNA sequencing revealed differential expression of matrisome genes.

Conclusion

Periadventitial BAPN treatment reduces fibrosis and promotes AVF compliance. Interestingly, the inhibition of LOX leads to increased accumulation of contractile VSMC while reducing myofibroblast-like cells. Periadventitial LOX inhibition alters the matrisome to improve AVF vascular remodeling.
Heat balance characteristics in the South China Sea and surrounding areas simulated using the TRAMS model—a case study of a summer heavy rain and a winter cold spell
Authors: Zhang Shaojing , Xu Feng , Xue Yufeng , Xu Daosheng , Leung Jeremy Cheuk-Hin , Han Liguo , Yang Jinyi , Zheng Meiying , Li Yongchi , Huang Fei , Zhang Banglin
Published: February 2023

Introduction: This study is first to apply d iagnostic analysis of the forecast tendencies to evaluate the simulation of equilibrium features in the South China Sea and its surrounding areas using The Tropical Regional Atmosphere (TRAMS) model, and further identify the sources of simulation biases of the model.

Methods: On the basis of the quasi equilibrium between dynamic and physical processes, the deviation of net forecast tendencies, which reflects the overall equilibrium of the model, serves as a good indicator of the model simulations bias. The sources of the forecast error can be further inferred by decomposing the net forecast tendencies into the dynamic and each physical process.

Results: Focusing on moisture and temperature tendencies, the results show that the TRAMS model generally captures the thermal equilibrium characteristics and the contributions of each physical process, which are markedly different between summer and winter and are affected by the Northwest Pacific Subtropical High (WPSH) and deep trough of East Asia respectively. Furthermore, the underestimation of vapour consumption by cloud microphysical parameterisation and the overestimation of sea surface heat flux by boundary layer parameterisation near the surface contribute the most to systematic model bias. The temperature bias from 900 to 300 hPa during winter mainly originates from the responses of radiation, cumulus convection, and cloud microphysical parameterisations because water vapour absorbs long wave radiation, heating the atmosphere, and clouds reduce short wave radi ation absorption, cooling it.

Discussion: The presented analyses provide a reference for further optimisation and improvement of the model.
The link between bone-derived factors osteocalcin, fibroblast growth factor 23, sclerostin, lipocalin 2 and tumor bone metastasis
Authors: Martiniakova Monika , Mondockova Vladimira , Biro Roman , Kovacova Veronika , Babikova Martina , Zemanova Nina , Ciernikova Sona , Omelka Radoslav
Published: February 2023

The skeleton is the third most common site of metastatic disease, which causes serious bone complications and short-term prognosis in cancer patients. Prostate and breast cancers are responsible for the majority of bone metastasis, resulting in osteolytic or osteoblastic lesions. The crosstalk between bone cells and their interactions with tumor cells are important in the development of lesions. Recently, both preclinical and clinical studies documented the clinical relevance of bone-derived factors, including osteocalcin (OC) and its undercarboxylated form (ucOC), fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), sclerostin (SCL), and lipocalin 2 (LCN2) as prognostic tumor biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets in bone metastasis. Both OC and ucOC could be useful targets for the prevention of bone metastasis in breast cancer. Moreover, elevated OC level may be a metastatic marker of prostate cancer. FGF23 is particularly important for those forms of cancer that primarily affect bone and/or are characterized by bone metastasis. In other tumor entities, increased FGF23 level is enigmatic. SCL plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of both osteolytic and osteoblastic lesions, as its levels are high in metastatic breast and prostate cancers. Elevated expression levels of LCN2 have been found in aggressive subtypes of cancer. However, its role in anti-metastasis varies significantly between different cancer types. Anyway, all aforementioned bone-derived factors can be used as promising tumor biomarkers. As metastatic bone disease is generally not curable, targeting bone factors represents a new trend in the prevention of bone metastasis and patient care.
Decline in cold-water coral growth promotes molluscan diversity: A paleontological perspective from a cold-water coral mound in the western Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Korpanty Chelsea A. , Hoffman Leon , Portilho-Ramos Rodrigo da Costa , Titschack Jürgen , Wienberg Claudia , Hebbeln Dierk
Published: February 2023

Framework-forming scleractinian cold-water corals (CWCs) act as ecosystem engineers, building and supporting biodiversity hotspots in the deep sea worldwide. While spatial patterns and drivers of species distributions have been evaluated on modern CWC reefs, little is known about how reef diversity is affected by habitat variability over geologic time – the scale at which CWC reefs initiate, thrive, and decline. Using three CWC reef sediment cores as species diversity archives, we investigated temporal trends of molluscan diversity over the last ~13 kyr from a CWC mound in the Alboran Sea (western Mediterranean Sea) to evaluate (a) how spatial patterns of CWC-associated diversity are recorded in reef sediments, (b) the potential of CWC reefs as biodiversity hotspots when coral growth is flourishing and when it is not, and (c) which palaeoceanographic conditions or habitat characteristics may be driving biodiversity. Our results reveal that at the ecosystem scale ecological differences between CWC habitats are more pronounced than ecological signatures of molluscan assemblages associated with intervals of CWC framework (flourishing growth) or non-framework (negligible CWC growth). However, within habitats, significant differences emerge between these assemblages with lower molluscan diversity associated with flourishing CWC growth. Significant negative correlations between molluscan diversity and palaeoceanographic conditions conducive for CWC growth (high food availability, strong hydrodynamics, optimal bottom-water temperatures and salinities, and high aggradation rates indicative of flourishing CWC growth also imply that CWC growth and relevant environmental conditions contribute to reduced molluscan diversity. Additionally, high coral volume, used here as a proxy for habitat structural complexity, is positively correlated with molluscan diversity just as high habitat complexity is in living CWC reefs. Altogether, these patterns detected over geologic time resemble those observed spatially across living CWC reefs today – where competition with resources, particularly food, prevents high reef biodiversity in the immediate vicinity of dense living CWC colonies. Overall, our study demonstrates that (1) ecological paradigms of living CWCs are preserved in their sedimentary record, (2) flourishing CWC growth and conditions promoting CWC growth drive habitat-scale diversity patterns, and (3) a geological approach can be applied to study long-term diversity dynamics in CWC ecosystems.
Exploration of a nomogram prediction model of 30-day survival in adult ECMO patients
Authors: Cui Liangwen , Zha Yutao , Zhang Cheng , Zhang Hui , Yu Chao , Rui Huang , Shao Min , Liu Nian
Published: February 2023

Objective

To investigate the factors of 30-day survival in ECMO patients, establish a nomogram model, and evaluate the predictive value of the model.

Methods

A total of 105 patients with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) were admitted to the Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, from January 2018 to March 2021. Cox regression analysis screened out the risk factors. Based on the results of multivariate analysis, the nomogram model was established by using R software, and the discrimination of the model was verified by bootstrap and calibration.

Results

The results showed that sex, acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE) II score, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) score before ECMO initiation and average daily dose of norepinephrine were independent risk factors for prognosis. Verify that the nomogram model is verified by bootstrap internally, and the corrected C-index is C-index: 0.886, showing a good degree of discrimination. The calibration curve (calibration) showed that the nomogram model had good agreement. The decision curve analysis(DCA) curve shows good clinical validity above the two extreme curves. Kaplan–Meier curves were drawn for patients in the tertile and compared with the first and second groups. The third group predicted the worst 30-day prognosis for ECMO patients.

Conclusion

The nomogram prediction model constructed based on the sex, APACHE II and DIC score, average daily dose of norepinephrine can effectively screen out the factors affecting the prognosis and provide a reference for individualized treatment of ECMO patients.
Overlapping SigH and SigE sigma factor regulons in Corynebacterium glutamicum
Authors: Busche Tobias , Dostálová Hana , Rucká Lenka , Holátko Jiří , Barvík Ivan , Štěpánek Václav , Pátek Miroslav , Kalinowski Jörn
Published: February 2023

The sigma H (σΗ) and sigma E (σE) subunits of Corynebacterium glutamicum RNA polymerase belong to Group 4 of sigma factors, also called extracytoplasmic function (ECF) sigma factors. Genes of the C. glutamicum σΗ regulon that are involved in heat and oxidative stress response have already been defined, whereas the genes of the σE regulon, which is involved in cell surface stress response, have not been explored until now. Using the C. glutamicum RES167 strain and its derivative C. glutamicum ΔcseE with a deletion in the anti-σΕ gene, differential gene expression was analyzed by RNA sequencing. We found 296 upregulated and 398 downregulated genes in C. glutamicum ΔcseE compared to C. glutamicum RES167. To confirm the functional link between σΕ and the corresponding promoters, we tested selected promoters using the in vivo two-plasmid system with gfpuv as a reporter gene and by in vitro transcription. Analyses with RNAP+σΗ and RNAP+σΕ, which were previously shown to recognize similar promoters, proved that the σΗ and σE regulons significantly overlap. The σE-controlled genes were found to be involved for example in protein quality control (dnaK, dnaJ2, clpB, and clpC), the regulation of Clp proteases (clgR), and membrane integrity maintenance. The single-promoter analyses with σΗ and σΕ revealed that there are two groups of promoters: those which are exclusively σΗ-specific, and the other group of promoters, which are σΗ/σE-dependent. No exclusively σE-dependent promoter was detected. We defined the consensus sequences of exclusively σΗ-regulated promotors to be −35 GGAAt and − 10 GTT and σΗ/σE-regulated promoters to be −35 GGAAC and − 10 cGTT. Fifteen genes were found to belong to the σΗ/σΕ regulon. Homology modeling showed that there is a specific interaction between Met170 in σΗ and the nucleotides −31 and − 30 within the non-coding strand (AT or CT) of the σΗ-dependent promoters. In σE, Arg185 was found to interact with the nucleotides GA at the same positions in the σE-dependent promoters.
Pangenome analysis of the genus Herbiconiux and proposal of four new species associated with Chinese medicinal plants
Authors: Deng Yang , Jiang Zhu-Ming , Han Xue-Fei , Su Jing , Yu Li-Yan , Liu Wei-Hong , Zhang Yu-Qin
Published: February 2023

Five Gram-stain-positive, aerobic, non-motile actinobacterial strains designated as CPCC 205763T, CPCC 203386T, CPCC 205716T, CPCC 203406T, and CPCC 203407 were obtained from different ecosystems associated with four kinds of Chinese traditional medicinal plants. The 16S rRNA gene sequences of these five strains showed closely related to members of the genus Herbiconiux of the family Microbacteriaceae, with the highest similarities of 97.4–99.7% to the four validly named species of Herbiconiux. In the phylogenetic trees based on 16S rRNA gene sequences and the core genome, these isolates clustered into the clade of the genus Herbiconiux within the lineage of the family Microbacteriaceae. The overall genome relatedness indexes (values of ANI and dDDH) and the phenotypic properties (morphological, physiological and chemotaxonomic characteristics) of these isolates, readily supported to affiliate them to the genus Herbiconiux, representing four novel species, with the isolates CPCC 203406T and CPCC 203407 being classified in the same species. For which the names Herbiconiux aconitum sp. nov. (type strain CPCC 205763T = I19A-01430T = CGMCC 1.60067T), Herbiconiux daphne sp. nov. (type strain CPCC 203386T = I10A-01569T = DSM 24546T = KCTC 19839T), Herbiconiux gentiana sp. nov. (type strain CPCC 205716T = I21A-01427T = CGMCC 1.60064T), and Herbiconiux oxytropis sp. nov. (type strain CPCC 203406T = I10A-02268T = DSM 24549T = KCTC 19840T) were proposed, respectively. In the genomes of these five strains, the putative encoding genes for amidase, endoglucanase, phosphatase, and superoxidative dismutase were retrieved, which were classified as biosynthetic genes/gene-clusters regarding plant growth-promotion (PGP) functions. The positive results from IAA-producing, cellulose-degrading and anti-oxidation experiments further approved their potential PGP bio-functions. Pangenome analysis of the genus Herbiconiux supported the polyphasic taxonomy results and confirmed their bio-function potential.
The effects of medium cut-off and high-flux membranes on activated clotting time of patients on hemodialysis
Authors: Lucca Isabela Pereira , Armani Rachel , Carvalho Aluizio B. , Manfredi Silvia R. , Silva Monique V. Rocha E. , Gratão Thamires B. , Silva Lidia , Watanabe Renato , Canziani Maria Eugenia
Published: February 2023

Introduction

The interaction between blood and dialysis membrane increases the risk of clot formation. Membrane properties can interfere with coagulation activation during dialysis. Heparin is usually used to ensure anticoagulation, which can be monitored by the Activated Clotting Time (ACT) test. The purpose of this study was to compare the ACT of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) undergoing hemodialysis with high-flux (HF) and medium cut-off (MCO) membranes.

Methods

This is a prospective, randomized, crossover study in which 32 CKD patients were dialyzed for 12 weeks with each membrane. Blood clotting measured by ACT was evaluated at the beginning, 2nd, and 4th hour of the dialysis session. Throughout the study, there were no changes in the dose or administration method of heparin.

Results

Patients mainly were middle-aged, non-black males on hemodialysis for eight years. Before randomization, ACT values were 132 ± 56, 195 ± 60, and 128 ± 32 seconds at pre-heparinization, 2nd and 4th hour, respectively. After 12 weeks, ACT values in HF and MCO groups were 129 ± 17, 205 ± 65 and 139 ± 38 seconds, and 143 ± 54, 219 ± 68 and 142 ± 45 seconds, respectively. An ANOVA model adjusted and unadjusted for repeated measures showed a significant time but no treatment or interaction effects. In an additional paired-sample analysis, no difference between ACT values of HF and MCO Groups was observed.

Discussion and Conclusion

There was no difference regarding the ACT test during dialysis therapy using HF or MCO membranes. This data suggests that no adjustment in the dose or administration method of heparin is necessary with the use of MCO dialysis membranes.
Assessment of normal myelination in infants and young children using the T1w/T2w mapping technique
Authors: Filimonova Elena , Amelina Evgenia , Sazonova Aleksandra , Zaitsev Boris , Rzaev Jamil
Published: February 2023

Background

White matter myelination is a crucial process of CNS maturation. The purpose of this study was to validate the T1w/T2w mapping technique for brain myelination assessment in infants and young children.

Methods

Ninety-four patients (0–23 months of age) without structural abnormalities on brain MRI were evaluated by using the T1w/T2w mapping method. The T1w/T2w signal intensity ratio, which reflects white matter integrity and the degree of myelination, was calculated in various brain regions. We performed a Pearson correlation analysis, a LOESS regression analysis, and a 2nd order polynomial regression analysis to describe the relationships between the regional metrics and the age of the patients (in months).

Results

T1w/T2w ratio values rapidly increased in the first 6–9 months of life and then slowed thereafter. The T1w/T2w mapping technique emphasized the contrast between myelinated and less myelinated structures in all age groups, which resulted in better visualization. There were strong positive correlations between the T1w/T2w ratio values from the majority of white matter ROIs and the subjects’ age (R = 0.7–0.9, p < 0.001). Within all of the analyzed regions, there were non-linear relationships between age and T1/T2 ratio values that varied by anatomical and functional location. Regions such as the splenium and the genu of the corpus callosum showed the highest R2 values, thus indicating less scattering of data and a better fit to the model.

Conclusion

The T1w/T2w mapping technique may enhance our diagnostic ability to assess myelination patterns in the brains of infants and young children.
Association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and osteoarthritis: A national population-based analysis of NHANES 2001–2018
Authors: Yu Guoyu , Lin Yuan , Dai Hanhao , Xu Jie , Liu Jun
Published: February 2023

Background

Previous studies have not provided a consensus on the effect of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] on osteoarthritis (OA). We aimed to evaluate the association using a large, nationally representative sample.

Methods

The cross-sectional data were obtained from the 2001 to 2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Individuals aged ≥40 years who had information of serum 25(OH)D, self-report OA, and related covariates were included. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to assess the association between serum 25(OH)D and osteoarthritis.

Results

Among the 21,334 participants included (weighted mean age, 56.9 years; 48.5% men), the proportion of participants with high serum 25(OH)D concentrations (≥100 nmol/L) increased significantly from 4.2% in 2001–2006 to 18.8% in 2013–2018. Higher serum 25(OH)D levels were associated with more osteoarthritis prevalence in fully adjusted model (odd ratio [OR] 1.25 [95% CI: 1.10, 1.43] for the 50–75 nmol/L group; OR 1.62 [95% CI: 1.42, 1.85] for the 75–100 nmol/L group; OR 1.91 [95% CI: 1.59, 2.30] for the ≥100 nmol/L group; with <50 nmol/L group as the reference) (p < 0.001 for trend). The association was consistent across several sensitivity analyses, including propensity score methods and excluding participants who had received vitamin D supplement. In subgroup analysis, the OR for the association increased significantly with body mass index (BMI) (BMI < 25 kg/m2, 1.01 [95% CI: 1.04, 1.08]; BMI 25–30 kg/m2, 1.05 [95% CI: 1.01, 1.08]; BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2, 1.10 [95% CI: 1.06, 1.13]; p = 0.004 for interaction).

Conclusion

There was a positive correlation between serum 25(OH)D and osteoarthritis with a possible modification by BMI. Our finding raises concerns about the potential adverse effects of high serum 25(OH)D on osteoarthritis, particularly among obese individuals. More well-designed studies are still needed to validate our findings in future.
Integrated metabolite analysis and health-relevant in vitro functionality of white, red, and orange maize (Zea mays L.) from the Peruvian Andean race Cabanita at different maturity stages
Authors: Ranilla Lena Gálvez , Zolla Gastón , Afaray-Carazas Ana , Vera-Vega Miguel , Huanuqueño Hugo , Begazo-Gutiérrez Huber , Chirinos Rosana , Pedreschi Romina , Shetty Kalidas
Published: February 2023

The high maize (Zea mays L.) diversity in Peru has been recognized worldwide, but the investigation focused on its integral health-relevant and bioactive characterization is limited. Therefore, this research aimed at studying the variability of the primary and the secondary (free and dietary fiber-bound phenolic, and carotenoid compounds) metabolites of three maize types (white, red, and orange) from the Peruvian Andean raceCabanitaat different maturity stages (milk-S1, dough-S2, and mature-S3) using targeted and untargeted methods. In addition, their antioxidant potential, and α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities relevant for hyperglycemia management were investigated usingin vitromodels. Results revealed a high effect of the maize type and the maturity stage. All maize types had hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acids in their free phenolic fractions, whereas major bound phenolic compounds were ferulic acid, ferulic acid derivatives, andp-coumaric acid. Flavonoids such as luteolin derivatives and anthocyanins were specific in the orange and red maize, respectively. The orange and red groups showed higher phenolic ranges (free + bound) (223.9–274.4 mg/100 g DW, 193.4– 229.8 mg/100 g DW for the orange and red maize, respectively) than the white maize (162.2–225.0 mg/100 g DW). Xanthophylls (lutein, zeaxanthin, neoxanthin, and a lutein isomer) were detected in all maize types. However, the orange maize showed the highest total carotenoid contents (3.19–5.87 μg/g DW). Most phenolic and carotenoid compounds decreased with kernel maturity in all cases. In relation to the primary metabolites, all maize types had similar fatty acid contents (linoleic acid > oleic acid > palmitic acid > α-linolenic acid > stearic acid) which increased with kernel development. Simple sugars, alcohols, amino acids, free fatty acids, organic acids, amines, and phytosterols declined along with grain maturity and were overall more abundant in white maize at S1. Thein vitrofunctionality was similar amongCabanitamaize types, but it decreased with the grain development, and showed a high correlation with the hydrophilic free phenolic fraction. Current results suggest that the nutraceutical characteristics of orange and whiteCabanitamaize are better at S1 and S2 stages while the red maize would be more beneficial at S3.
Polyphenols: Natural food grade biomolecules for treating neurodegenerative diseases from a multi-target perspective
Authors: Li Zhenmin , Zhao Ting , Shi Mingqin , Wei Yuanyuan , Huang Xiaoyi , Shen Jiayan , Zhang Xiaoyu , Xie Zhaohu , Huang Peidong , Yuan Kai , Li Zhaofu , Li Ning , Qin Dongdong
Published: February 2023

As natural functional bioactive ingredients found in foods and plants, polyphenols play various antioxidant and anti-inflammatory roles to prevent the development of disease and restore human health. The multi-target modulation of polyphenols provides a novel practical therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases that are difficult to treat with traditional drugs like glutathione and cholinesterase inhibitors. This review mainly focuses on the efficacy of polyphenols on ischemic stroke, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, including in vivo and in vitro experimental studies. It is further emphasized that polyphenols exert neuroprotective effects primarily through inhibiting production of oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines, which may be the underlying mechanism. However, polyphenols are still rarely used as medicines to treat neurodegenerative diseases. Due to the lack of clinical trials, the mechanism of polyphenols is still in the stage of insufficient exploration. Future large-scale multi-center randomized controlled trials and in-depth mechanism studies are still needed to fully assess the safety, efficacy and side effects of polyphenols.
Compensation profiles among private sector employees in Sweden: Differences in work-related and health-related outcomes
Authors: Nordgren Selar Alexander , Gagné Marylène , Hellgren Johnny , Falkenberg Helena , Sverke Magnus
Published: February 2023

How experiences and perceptions of pay and pay setting relate to employees’ job performance, willingness to remain in the organization, and health has been the subject of much debate. Previous research has typically used a variable-centered approach to investigate associations between different pay-related factors and such outcomes. In contrast, we used latent profile analysis to explore combinations of compensation characteristics (pay level, perceived horizontal pay dispersion, and procedural quality, i.e., transactional leadership and procedural pay-setting justice), combining relevant theories on the subject. Based on a nationally representative sample of private sector employees in Sweden (N = 1,146), our study identified six compensation profiles. Our key findings show, first, that higher levels of pay were generally associated with better performance, lower turnover intention, better self-rated health, and lower work-related exhaustion, especially when combined with perceptions of high procedural quality. Second, in terms of perceived horizontal pay dispersion, the results indicate that pay compression may be associated with beneficial outcomes, particularly when combined with high procedural quality. Third, procedural quality was generally associated with favorable work-related and health-related outcomes, although such positive effects may be contingent upon pay level and perceived horizontal pay dispersion. In conclusion, while pay level, perceptions of horizontal pay dispersion, and procedural quality may all matter for employee outcomes, it is important to consider their combinations.
Detection of methadone and buprenorphine in urine samples from inmates of German prisons
Authors: Franchetti Giorgia , Thierauf-Emberger Annette , Franz Anette , Thoma Vanessa , Auwärter Volker , Huppertz Laura M.
Published: February 2023

The use of non-prescribed opioid substitution drugs is a serious public health problem, involving general population as well as vulnerable populations such as prisoners. The estimation of the prevalence of opioid substitution drug misuse in prisoners is crucial to suggest strategies to contrast this phenomenon and reduce the associated morbidity and mortality. The present study aimed to provide an objective estimation of the prevalence of illicit use of methadone and buprenorphine in two German prisons. Urine samples were collected from inmates of Freiburg and Offenburg prisons at random times and tested for the detection of methadone, buprenorphine and their metabolites. Analyses were performed by a validated liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method. In total 678 inmates participated in this study. The participation rate was about 60% of all permanent inmates. Of the 675 samples suitable for the analysis, 70 samples (10.4%) tested positive for methadone, 70 samples (10.4%) for buprenorphine, and 4 samples (0.6%) for both drugs. At least 100 samples (14.8%) were not associated with reported prescribed-opioid substitution treatment (OST). Buprenorphine was the most common illicitly used drug. In one of the prisons, buprenorphine was brought in from the outside. The present cross-sectional experimental study was able to provide reliable information regarding the illicit use of opioid substitution drugs in prisons.
A review on principles, performance and complexity of linear estimation and detection techniques for MIMO systems
Authors: Gaspar Danilo , Mendes Luciano L. , Pimenta Tales C.
Published: February 2023

The advent of the fifth generation (5G) of mobile networks has introduced several new use cases that are pushing mobile networks in environments that are typically supported by wired technologies. The initial discussions around the sixth generation (6G) of mobile networks signalizes that different approaches are needed to address all contrasting requirements, where multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technique stands as a key technology for most future wireless systems. In this review, we present an introduction on classical linear estimators and coherent detectors along with an innovative and accurate complexity formulation within a common framework, allowing a fair comparison and providing an initial guideline for researchers that are looking for a general view of the main techniques available for spatial multiplexing (SM)-MIMO detection and estimation.
Bureaucratic and Societal Determinants of Female-Led Microenterprises in India
Authors: Devlina  , Sahu Santosh Kumar
Published: February 2023

This study examines the barriers to female entrepreneurship in India’s microenterprise sector through society and bureaucracy. The study uses grammatical genders in languages to capture the societal attitudes towards female entrepreneurship. Using a probit model, it was found that states where the spoken language is two-gendered, have poor representations of women in entrepreneurial positions compared with states with languages that are multi-gender or no gender. It is further argued that these societal attitudes also reflect through people in power, such as bureaucrats, credit managers, bankers, etc., which affects female entrepreneurship. The paper finds empirical evidence for the grease-the-wheel hypothesis, i.e., in the presence of a discriminating inefficient business ecosystem, women entrepreneurs use non-market strategies such as corruption to alter decisions in their favour. Thus, an effort to reduce corruption at an immature stage, when these societal institutions have not yet developed, might cause more harm than benefit.
Fifteen Years of Accounting Professional’s Competencies Supply and Demand: Evidencing Actors, Competency Assessment Strategies, and ‘Top Three’ Competencies
Authors: Kroon Nanja , Alves Maria do Céu
Published: February 2023

This paper reviews accounting education literature with a focus on the supply of and demand for accounting professional’s competencies. Its main objective is to determine which actors are involved in the relationship, ascertain both sides’ perspectives, and evidence competency supply and demand over the last 15 years. After a solid selection, the analysis includes 122 empirical articles from 2006 to 2021. The actors and competencies addressed in the relevant literature were identified and strategies used in their assessment were discovered. The identified competencies were then categorized and framed in the five constructs presented by Kroon and Alves. This approach evidenced that mismatches remain between competency expectations and competency supply in the accounting profession. Investigators may consider the results to improve the consistency of research in this field of study, contributing to a theory that is still lacking. Using the identified concepts and the constructs’ components, empirical studies can bring substantial practical implications to reduce or eliminate existing competency gaps. This study provides an integrated understanding of the literature on the fit between higher education institutions and the labor market of the accounting professional’s competencies. The framing of actors, strategies, and competencies will assist other researchers in augmenting knowledge in this area.
Linking Patient Experience to Customer Delight in the Private Laboratory Service
Authors: Widyowati Puspa Haryani , Antonio Ferdi , Andy Andy
Published: February 2023

The goal of this study was to analyse the influence of the antecedents of patient experience, namely staff appearance, laboratory staff attitude, information clarity, staff responsiveness, laboratory ambience, phlebotomy process, laboratory technology, and report results, which furtherly generate customer delight and drive favourable intentions such as revisit intentions to the laboratory and willingness to share and post on social media. By extending earlier studies and using data from a leading private clinical laboratory service, this study suggests a new insight. A quantitative study with a survey is used with a cross-sectional data approach. The sample was taken purposively from customers who have had laboratory services at the laboratory, particularly from customers who have undergone the phlebotomy process. The 186 samples that complied with the criteria were examined using the PLS-SEM method. The findings demonstrated that the eight antecedents show a high probability of influencing the patient experience, with the phlebotomy process found as the predominant antecedent, followed by laboratory staff attitude and patient perception of laboratory technology. Further, this study found strong evidence that patient experience could generate customer delight, which drives the revisit intention and willingness to share and post positive things on social media. Openness is found to strengthen that process. The results of this study revealed that the higher the patient’s experience through their journey, the higher the probability of delight could exist in the context of service provided in the private clinical laboratory. Thus, it is worth considering by the clinic management to develop a more effective business.
Stick-Free Flight Stability Problem Revisited: A Modeling and Simulation Approach
Authors: Altunkaya Ege Cagri , Ozkol Ibrahim
Published: February 2023

The stick-free flight stability is an old-fashioned and non-progressive issue; nevertheless, it is still existent and of significant importance to the design of aircraft whose control system is reversible. The existence of the problem necessitates a deep assessment of stick-free flight stability throughout the aircraft design. Up to now, this problem has been addressed using either analytical approaches, which are only related to the static stability evaluation, or performing flight tests. In this study, the problem is handled in its entirety, from static and dynamic flight stability assessment to design criteria with a comprehensive perspective. Moreover, it is also exhibited that, contrary to what has been generally proposed in the literature, the limitation of the problem of stick-free flight stability through static stability assessment is far from being the main challenge. As a brief scope, the derivation of the control surface dynamics, a stick-free trim algorithm, and assessment rationale of the stick-free static and dynamic flight stability using a simulation approach are proposed. As a consequence, the aim is to set a broad understanding for designers related to this phenomenon and add adjunct design criteria in the design optimization process by approaching it from a modeling, simulation, and flight test perspective.
Radar Anti-Jamming Countermeasures Intelligent Decision-Making: A Partially Observable Markov Decision Process Approach
Authors: Xing Huaixi , Xing Qinghua , Wang Kun
Published: February 2023

Current electronic warfare jammers and radar countermeasures are characterized by dynamism and uncertainty. This paper focuses on a decision-making framework of radar anti-jamming countermeasures. The characteristics and implementation process of radar intelligent anti-jamming systems are analyzed, and a scheduling method for radar anti-jamming action based on the Partially Observable Markov Process (POMDP) is proposed. The sample-based belief distribution is used to reflect the radar’s cognition of the environment and describes the uncertainty of the recognition of jamming patterns in the belief state space. The belief state of jamming patterns is updated with Bayesian rules. The reward function is used as the evaluation criterion to select the best anti-jamming strategy, so that the radar is in a low threat state as often as possible. Numerical simulation combines the behavioral prior knowledge base of radars and jammers and obtains the behavioral confrontation benefit matrix from the past experience of experts. The radar controls the output according to the POMDP policy, and dynamically performs the best anti-jamming action according to the change of jamming state. The results show that the POMDP anti-jamming policy is better than the conventional policy. The POMDP approach improves the adaptive anti-jamming capability of the radar and can quickly realize the anti-jamming decision to jammers. This work provides some design ideas for the subsequent development of an intelligent radar.
Analysis of the Effect of the Leading-Edge Vortex Structure on Unsteady Secondary Flow at the Endwall of a High-Lift Low-Pressure Turbine
Authors: Sun Shuang , Kang Jinhui , Lei Zhijun , Huang Zhen , Si Haixv , Wan Xiaolong
Published: February 2023

The horseshoe vortex system at the leading edge of a low-pressure turbine (LPT) has unsteady flow characteristics, and the flow field in the downstream cascade channel also has unsteady characteristics. In this study, CFD simulations are performed with the help of commercial software CFX, and experimental checks are performed using a fan-shaped cascade test bench to investigate the flow characteristics of the endwall of the PACKB blade type of a high-lift LPT under the same incoming Reynolds number and two incoming boundary layer thickness conditions. The obtained results show that there are different flow alteration characteristics and alteration frequencies of the horseshoe vortex system, among which the vortex system with a thicker boundary layer is larger in size and less spaced from each other, which is more likely to induce the fusion of vortex systems. The centrifugal instability causes the instability of the horseshoe vortex system, and the instability frequency is inversely proportional to the thickness of the boundary layer. With two inlet boundary layers, the instability frequencies of the vortex system are 125 Hz and 175 Hz, respectively, and the ratio of the frequency to the thickness of the boundary layer is reciprocal to each other. The stimulation effect of the unstable horseshoe vortex system on the downstream secondary flow intensity is greater than that of the steady state. The thin boundary layer case generates a greater unsteady loss in the cascade channel than the thick boundary layer case due to the poor stability of the vortex system.
Effect of Nitrogen Fertilization on Tree Growth and Nutrient Content in Soil and Cherry Leaves (Prunus cerasus L.)
Authors: Rutkowski Krzysztof , Łysiak Grzegorz P.
Published: February 2023

Nitrogen fertilization ensures the proper growth of trees. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of differentiated nitrogen fertilization on selected parameters. It was assumed that such analysis is an indirect picture of the needs of cherries grown in herbicide fallow. The content of minerals in two layers of the soil, in leaves, and its influence on tree growth, and the content of chlorophyll in leaves were assessed. The experiments were carried out in three different cherry orchards. Three levels of fertilization were applied in each orchard: 0 kg, 60 kg, and 120 kg N ha−1. As expected the fertilization resulted in an increase in the content of nitrate and ammonium forms of nitrogen in the soil, however, their content was also dependent on precipitation and temperature. Additionally, high nitrogen fertilization increased the content of phosphorus and potassium and decreased the magnesium in the topsoil layer. High nitrogen fertilization caused the decreased content of phosphorus and potassium in the leaves. The level of calcium and magnesium in leaves increased with fertilization of 60 kg N ha−1 but decreased with the dose to 120 kg N ha−1. The use of nitrogen fertilization increased the vegetative growth of trees measured by leaf area and trunk cross-sectional area. However, the chlorophyll content was not dependent on the amount of nitrogen fertilization. Based on the results, it can be concluded that 60 kg N ha−1 is the optimal dose, ensuring proper nutrition of cherry trees.
Gene Amplification of EPSPS with a Mutation in Conserved Region: The Evolved Glyphosate Resistance Mechanism in Eleusine indica
Authors: Chen Jingchao , Li Zhiling , Cui Hailan , Yu Haiyan , Li Xiangju
Published: February 2023

Goosegrass (Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn.) is one of the most vicious weeds worldwide, competing with crops and greatly reducing their yields. Glyphosate, a non-selective, broad spectrum, post-emergence herbicide has inevitably induced severe resistance in many weeds owing to its intensive use. Additionally, control strategies rely on the clarity of resistance mechanisms. In this study, we aimed to investigate the resistance levels and potential resistance mechanisms of two goosegrass populations collected from orchards. Results showed that the resistance indexes of LL and SS populations were 3.8 and 1.9, respectively. A single nucleotide change led to a Pro106Leu (P106L) mutation in the LL population and the SS population had a Pro106Ser (P106S) amino acid substitution. The EPSPS expression in both populations was 2.6 times that of the wild-type population. However, the relative copy number and EPSPS protein content in the LL population were higher than those of the SS population, as indicated by immunoblot analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Overall, we confirmed EPSPS amplification with a P106L mutation, resulting in overproduction of this mutated EPSPS protein, which conferred moderate glyphosate resistance. This study details a case of simultaneous evolution of mutation and amplification in EPSPS of glyphosate resistance weeds.
Chlorophyll Fluorescence Imaging Combined with Active Oxygen Metabolism for Classification of Similar Diseases in Cucumber Plants
Authors: Sun Ye , Liu Tan , Wang Xiaochan , Hu Yonghong
Published: February 2023

It is a great challenge to identify different cucumber diseases at early stages based on conventional methods due to complex and similar symptoms. By contrast, chlorophyll fluorescence is an early indicator of membrane changes or disturbances during plant growth. This research aimed to propose an effective method for the identification of brown spot (BS) and anthracnose (AN) in cucumbers based on chlorophyll fluorescence imaging, and to interpret the relationship between fluorescence response and different diseases coupled with active oxygen metabolism analysis. Support vector machine (SVM) and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) were used to classify the different disease degrees of brown spot and anthracnose in cucumber plants. XGBoost is more effective for this study, with a classification accuracy greater than 90% for diseased cucumbers. Additionally, the XGBoost classification model was validated by the different disease degrees of cucumber plants, and the five-class classification accuracies were 88.2%, 85.0%, 75.0%, 65.0% and 75.0% for Healthy, BS-slight, BS-severe, AN-slight, and AN-severe, respectively. The diseased cucumbers had a higher level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation than the healthy cucumbers, and the activity levels of the ROS-scavenging enzymes of anthracnose were higher than those of brown spot. The analysis of fluorescence parameters and the discrimination model for different diseases were well linked to the active oxygen metabolism analysis. These results demonstrate the potential of chlorophyll fluorescence imaging combined with active oxygen metabolism analysis for the detection of cucumber diseases, regarding different disease types and disease degrees.
Parameter Calibration and Systematic Test of a Discrete Element Model (DEM) for Compound Fertilizer Particles in a Mechanized Variable-Rate Application
Authors: Yuan Fahui , Yu Hanwen , Wang Lin , Shi Yinyan , Wang Xiaochan , Liu Hui
Published: February 2023

In order to obtain accurate discrete element simulation model (DEM) parameters of compound fertilizer and solve the problem of challenging measurement of contact parameters of compound fertilizer particle, simulation calibration test was carried out by using EDEM simulation soft-ware. This study measured the intrinsic parameters and contact parameters of compound fertilizer particles through physical tests and established a simulation model that corresponds with the actual situation to calibrate the contact parameters of compound fertilizer particles. By using the Blackett-Burman test, the parameters that had a significant impact on the compound fertilizer’s resting angle were determined by the fertilizer-fertilizer collision recovery coefficient, fertilizer-fertilizer rolling friction coefficient, and fertilizer-steel static friction coefficient. Utilizing the steepest ascent test, the ideal value intervals for the three key parameters were identified. Box-Burman response surface analysis was used to establish and optimize the regression model of the rest angle and significant parameters. With the actual rest angle as the target value, the best combination of significant parameters was found, which was used for the simulation verification test. The simulated rest angle was 20.61°, whereas the real rest angle was 19.95°, with a relative error of 3.31%. The results demonstrate that the calibration parameters are essentially accurate representations of the real characteristics, which can serve as a reference point for simulation research and optimization design of variable fertilizer spreader.