bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Should We Worry About Surficial Dynamics When Assessing Nutrient Cycling in the Groundwater?
Authors: Khurana Swamini , Heße Falk , Hildebrandt Anke , Thullner Martin
Published: March 2022

The fluxes of water and solutes in the subsurface compartment of the Critical Zone are temporally dynamic and it is unclear how this impacts microbial mediated nutrient cycling in the spatially heterogeneous subsurface. To investigate this, we undertook numerical modeling, simulating the transport in a wide range of spatially heterogeneous domains, and the biogeochemical transformation of organic carbon and nitrogen compounds using a complex microbial community with four (4) distinct functional groups, in water saturated subsurface compartments. We performed a comprehensive uncertainty analysis accounting for varying residence times and spatial heterogeneity. While the aggregated removal of chemical species in the domains over the entire simulation period was approximately the same as that in steady state conditions, the sub-scale temporal variation of microbial biomass and chemical discharge from a domain depended strongly on the interplay of spatial heterogeneity and temporal dynamics of the forcing. We showed that the travel time and the Damköhler number (Da) can be used to predict the temporally varying chemical discharge from a spatially heterogeneous domain. In homogeneous domains, chemical discharge in temporally dynamic conditions could be double of that in the steady state conditions while microbial biomass varied up to 75% of that in steady state conditions. In heterogeneous domains, the interquartile range of uncertainty in chemical discharge in reaction dominated systems (log10Da > 0) was double of that in steady state conditions. However, high heterogeneous domains resulted in outliers where chemical discharge could be as high as 10–20 times of that in steady state conditions in high flow periods. And in transport dominated systems (log10Da < 0), the chemical discharge could be half of that in steady state conditions in unusually low flow conditions. In conclusion, ignoring spatio-temporal heterogeneities in a numerical modeling approach may exacerbate inaccurate estimation of nutrient export and microbial biomass. The results are relevant to long-term field monitoring studies, and for homogeneous soil column-scale experiments investigating the role of temporal dynamics on microbial redox dynamics.
Water-Energy-Food Nexus Tools in Theory and Practice: A Systematic Review
Authors: Taguta Cuthbert , Senzanje Aidan , Kiala Zolo , Malota Mphatso , Mabhaudhi Tafadzwanashe
Published: March 2022

Sector-based resource management approaches partly contribute to the insecurities in water, energy and food sectors and resources. These approaches fail to acknowledge and capture the interlinkages between these connected resources, a key strength in the water-energy-food (WEF) nexus approach. However, the multi-centric, multidimensional, and spatiotemporally dynamic WEF nexus is complex and uncertain, thus requiring dedicated tools that can unpack it. Various sources have blamed the slow uptake and practical implementation of the WEF nexus on the unavailability of appropriate tools and models. To confirm those claims with evidence, literature on WEF nexus tools was searched from Scopus and Web of Science and systematically reviewed using the PRISMA protocol. It was found that the WEF nexus tools are being developed increasingly, with a current cumulative number of at least 46 tools and models. However, their majority (61%) is unreachable to the intended users. Some available tools are in code format, which can undermine their applicability by users without programming skills. A good majority (70%) lack key capabilities such as geospatial features and transferability in spatial scale and geographic scope. Only 30% of the tools are applicable at local scales. In contrast, some tools are restricted in geographic scope and scale of application, for example, ANEMI 3 and WEF models for large and household scales, respectively. Most (61%) of the tools lack wide application in actual case studies; this was partly attributed to the tools not being readily available. Thus, efforts should be made to disseminate and ensure end-users' uptake and application of developed tools. Alternatively, the user-friendly tools should be developed on-demand as requested and inspired by potential clients. Developers should consider utility, transferability and scalability across uses and users when improving existing tools and developing new tools so that they are adaptable, only requiring new, specific location-adapted inputs and data. Where and when it is necessary to capture spatial dynamics of the WEF nexus, tools should be geographic information system (GIS)-enabled for automatic WEF nexus location selection, geospatial mapping, and visualization. Such GIS-enabled WEF nexus tools can provide a bird's eye view of hotspots and champions of WEF nexus practices.
Groundwater Quality Characterization for Safe Drinking Water Supply in Sheikhpura District of Bihar, India: A Geospatial Approach
Authors: Kumar Ritesh , Singh Sarnam , Kumar Rakesh , Sharma Prabhakar
Published: March 2022

Groundwater quality due to geogenic factors, aggravated by anthropogenic activities, is a significant threat to human wellbeing and agricultural practices. This study aimed at mapping the spatial distribution of low and high groundwater-contaminated regions in the Sheikhpura district of Bihar for safe drinking and irrigation water availability. To account for spatial distribution, groundwater quality parameters, such as fluoride, iron, total dissolved solids, turbidity, and pH, were analyzed using integrated interpolation, geographical information systems, and regression analysis. A total of 206 dug wells and bore wells were analyzed for in-situ observations in the Sheikhpura district of Bihar, India. The analysis indicated that the periphery south of Chewara and Ariari blocks, i.e., about 9.16% of district area, is affected by fluoride content (1.55–2.32 mg/l) which is highly unsuitable for consumption, as recommended by the WHO and BIS standards. However, the remaining area (90.84%) is within the permissible limit of fluoride content (0.37–1.54 mg/l). In most areas, iron content is beyond WHO permissible limits (>0.1 mg/l), except 3.1% area in the eastern region with 0.06–0.12 mg/l iron, although iron concentrations in groundwater are under the acceptable limit (<0.3 mg/l) as per BIS standard across the district. However, pH and total dissolved solids were within permissible limits. Each of the modeled geospatial maps was validated using a set of 17 in-situ observations. The best-fit model between observed and predicted variables such as fluoride, iron, total dissolved solids, and pH produced a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.96, 0.905, 0.91, and 0.906, respectively. The findings of this study provide insights and understanding on groundwater pollution regimes and minimize uncertain causes because of the high spatial distribution of geogenic fluoride and iron occurrence, and will also be helpful to policymakers for better planning, investments, and management to supply potable water in the area.
Cultural Representations of Borderline Personality Disorder
Authors: Munson Katherine A. , Janney Carol A. , Goodwin Kelsie , Nagalla Madhavi
Published: March 2022

Background/Objective

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is characterized by unstable interpersonal relationships, impulsivity, and self-harm. There are many distinct stressors that predispose individuals to develop BPD or engage in self-harm behaviors. The objective of this systematic review was to compare methods of self-harm and psychological stressors in BPD across different cultures.

Methods

A PubMed database search was conducted with the goal of capturing all articles (n = 22) that discussed methods of self-harm in BPD in any culture. Data extracted from the articles included methods of self-harm, psychological stressors, sample size, rurality, geographical location, and proportion of males to females.

Results

Key differences were noted in the methods of self-harm. Eastern nations (n = 5) reported higher rates of self-poisoning (60%) than Western nations (11%). Western nations (n = 9) reported higher rates of skin-mutilating behavior (100%) than Eastern nations (80%). Two of the articles included participants from rural settings, one in the Sundarban region of India and the other in Mississippi. Notably, the Sundarban region reported the highest rate of poisoning (93%) whereas the Mississippi region reported high rates of skin mutilation. Differences were also noted in psychological stressors as the rates of interpersonal problems were higher in Western than in Eastern nations.

Conclusions

Additional research should be conducted into the presentation of BPD in different cultures. An improved understanding of the cultural presentations of BPD could improve diagnosis and treatment in various populations.
Pseudo-Maxwellian Velocity Distribution Formed by the Pickup-like Process in Magnetic Reconnection
Authors: Usami Shunsuke , Horiuchi Ritoku
Published: March 2022

Focusing on ring-shaped ion velocity distributions with a finite width formed in magnetic reconnection in the presence of a guide magnetic field, intriguing properties such as the formation mechanism, a significant change in the shape, and necessary conditions for the change are investigated by means of theory and simulations. The width of a ring velocity distribution predominantly originates from velocity variations of seed particles for the pickup-like process. A function exactly representing a ring with a width is analytically formulated, assuming a steady supply of seed particles satisfying a Maxwellian velocity distribution and a mixing of gyration phases. The formulated function indicates that when the ring width is larger than a criterion, the local minimum of the ring’s center is changed into the maximum, and the shape is transformed into a mountain shape. Such a mountain-like distribution is defined as “a pseudo-Maxwellian distribution,” because it is almost indistinguishable in shape from a genuine Maxwellian distribution. Actually, particle simulations demonstrate that mountain-shaped ion velocity distributions are formed during magnetic reconnection with a guide magnetic field, and it is nearly concluded that they are pseudo-Maxwellian distributions. Moreover, two types of evidence for pseudo-Maxwellian distributions are shown by simulations. One is to analyze the dependence of the distribution shape on the guide magnetic field, which is explored by the particle simulation. In cases of slightly different values of the guide field, vague shapes of rings with a width are observed as ion velocity distributions. The other is to observe velocity distributions under a hypothetical condition of an artificial zero temperature in the upstream by utilizing a test particle simulation. In the test particle simulation, ring-shaped distributions with a width are clearly seen, because the velocity variations in the upstream are reduced. From the two types of evidence, it is definitely confirmed that the mountain-shaped distributions found in the particle simulations are pseudo-Maxwellian distribution. These results imply that pseudo-Maxwellian distributions would be created for various cases of guide field magnetic reconnection.
Identification and Classification of Relativistic Electron Precipitation at Earth Using Supervised Deep Learning
Authors: Capannolo Luisa , Li Wen , Huang Sheng
Published: March 2022

We show an application of supervised deep learning in space sciences. We focus on the relativistic electron precipitation into Earth’s atmosphere that occurs when magnetospheric processes (wave-particle interactions or current sheet scattering, CSS) violate the first adiabatic invariant of trapped radiation belt electrons leading to electron loss. Electron precipitation is a key mechanism of radiation belt loss and can lead to several space weather effects due to its interaction with the Earth’s atmosphere. However, the detailed properties and drivers of electron precipitation are currently not fully understood yet. Here, we aim to build a deep learning model that identifies relativistic precipitation events and their associated driver (waves or CSS). We use a list of precipitation events visually categorized into wave-driven events (REPs, showing spatially isolated precipitation) and CSS-driven events (CSSs, showing an energy-dependent precipitation pattern). We elaborate the ensemble of events to obtain a dataset of randomly stacked events made of a fixed window of data points that includes the precipitation interval. We assign a label to each data point: 0 is for no-events, 1 is for REPs and 2 is for CSSs. Only the data points during the precipitation are labeled as 1 or 2. By adopting a long short-term memory (LSTM) deep learning architecture, we developed a model that acceptably identifies the events and appropriately categorizes them into REPs or CSSs. The advantage of using deep learning for this task is meaningful given that classifying precipitation events by its drivers is rather time-expensive and typically must involve a human. After post-processing, this model is helpful to obtain statistically large datasets of REP and CSS events that will reveal the location and properties of the precipitation driven by these two processes at all L shells and MLT sectors as well as their relative role, thus is useful to improve radiation belt models. Additionally, the datasets of REPs and CSSs can provide a quantification of the energy input into the atmosphere due to relativistic electron precipitation, thus offering valuable information to space weather and atmospheric communities.
The Effect of Repetitive Whole Body Cryotherapy Treatment on Adaptations to a Strength and Endurance Training Programme in Physically Active Males
Authors: Haq Adnan , Ribbans William J. , Hohenauer Erich , Baross Anthony W.
Published: March 2022

Despite its potential merit in sport and exercise recovery, the implications of repetitive Whole Body Cryotherapy (WBC) during training programmes require further review due to the possibility of repetitive cold interfering with long term adaptations. This study investigated the impact of two weekly 3 min WBC sessions (30 s at −60°C, 150 s at −120°C) on adaptations to a 6 week strength and endurance training programme. Sixteen male participants (mean ± SD age 33.4 ± 9.8 years, body mass 82.3 ± 9.8 kg) randomly allocated into WBC (n = 7) and non-cryotherapy control (CON, n=9) groups completed the programme consisting of two weekly strength and plyometric training sessions and two weekly 30 min runs (70% VO2 max). Participants were assessed for body fat, VO2 max, muscle torque, three repetition maximum barbell squat and countermovement jump height before and after the programme. Resistance and running intensities were progressed after 3 weeks. Participants in both groups significantly improved muscle torque (WBC: 277.1 ± 63.2 Nm vs. 318.1 ± 83.4 Nm, p < 0.01, d = 0.56; CON: 244.6 ± 50.6 Nm vs. 268.0 ± 71.8 Nm, p = 0.05, d = 0.38) and barbell squat (WBC: 86.4 ± 19.5 kg vs. 98.9 ± 15.2 kg, p = 0.03, d = 0.69; CON: 91.1 ± 28.7 kg vs. 106.1 ± 30.0 kg, p < 0.01, d=0.51) following the 6 week programme. For the CON group, there was also a significant reduction in body fat percentage (p = 0.01) and significant increase in jump height (p = 0.01). There was no significant increase in VO2 max for either group (both p > 0.2). There was no difference between WBC and CON for responses in muscle torque, 3RM barbell squat and body fat, however WBC participants did not increase their jump height (p = 0.23). Repetitive WBC does not appear to blunt adaptations to a concurrent training programme, although there may be an interference effect in the development of explosive power. Sports practitioners can cautiously apply repetitive WBC to support recovery post-exercise without undue concern on athletes' fitness gains or long term performance, particularly throughout training phases focused more on general strength development than explosive power.
Dietary Supplements as a Major Cause of Anti-doping Rule Violations
Authors: Lauritzen Fredrik
Published: March 2022

Dietary supplements encompass a large heterogenic group of products with a wide range of ingredients and declared effects used by athletes for a multitude of reasons. The high prevalence of use across all sports and level of competition, combined with the well-documented risks of such products containing prohibited substances have led to several doping cases globally. Despite being a considerable concern and persistent focus of sport organizations and anti-doping agencies, the magnitude of anti-doping rule violations associated with supplement use is not well-known. This study examines 18-years of doping controls of a national anti-doping program to determine the relationship between the presence of prohibited substances in athlete's doping samples and the use of dietary supplements. In 26% (n = 49) of all the analytical anti-doping rule violation cases in the period 2003–2020 (n = 192), the athlete claimed that a dietary supplement was the source of the prohibited substance causing an adverse analytical finding. Evidence supporting this claim was found in about half of these cases (n = 27, i.e., 14% of all analytical ADRV's). Stimulants were the most prevalent substance group linked to supplements (n = 24), of which methylhexanamine was associated with 16 cases. High risk products were predominantly multi-ingredient pre-workout supplements (n = 20) and fat-burning products (n = 4). Anti-doping organizations should develop strategies on how to assist athletes to assess the need, assess the risk and assess the consequences of using various dietary supplements.
Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Food Systems and Determinants of Resilience in Indigenous Communities of Jharkhand State, India: A Serial Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ghosh-Jerath Suparna , Kapoor Ridhima , Dhasmana Ayushi , Singh Archna , Downs Shauna , Ahmed Selena
Published: March 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has globally jeopardized food security, with heightened threats for the most vulnerable including smallholder farmers as well as rural, indigenous populations. A serial cross-sectional study was conducted to document effect of COVID-19 pandemic on food environment, agricultural practices, diets and food security, along with potential determinants of food systems resilience, among vulnerable smallholder farmer households in indigenous communities of Santhal, Munda, and Sauria Paharia of Jharkhand state, India. Telephonic household surveys were conducted in two phases i.e., lockdown and unlock phase to assess the impact of the pandemic on their food systems and agricultural practices. Market surveys were conducted during the unlock phase, to understand the impact on local informal markets. Secondary data on state and district level food production and Government food security programs were also reviewed. For data analysis purpose, a conceptual framework was developed which delineated possible pathways of impact of COVID-19 pandemic on food environment, food security and food consumption patterns along with factors that may offer resilience. Our findings revealed adverse effects on food production and access among all three communities, due to restrictions in movement of farm labor and supplies, along with disruptions in food supply chains and other food-related logistics and services associated with the pandemic and mitigation measures. The pandemic significantly impacted the livelihoods and incomes among all three indigenous communities during both lockdown and unlock phases, which were attributed to a reduction in sale of agricultural produce, distress selling at lower prices and reduced opportunity for daily wage laboring. A significant proportion of respondents also experienced changes in dietary intake patterns. Key determinants of resilience were identified; these included accessibility to agricultural inputs like indigenous seeds, labor available at household level due to back migration and access to diverse food environments, specifically the wild food environment. There is a need for programs and interventions to conserve and revitalize the bio-cultural resources available within these vulnerable indigenous communities and build resilient food systems that depend on shorter food supply chains and utilize indigenous knowledge systems and associated resources, thereby supporting healthy, equitable and sustainable food systems for all.
Dual-Purpose Sorghum: A Targeted Sustainable Crop-Livestock Intervention for the Smallholder Subsistence Farming Communities of Adilabad, India
Authors: Anbazhagan Krithika , Voorhaar Marijn , Kholová Jana , Chadalavada Keerthi , Choudhary Sunita , Mallayee Srikanth , Kaliamoorthy Sivasakthi , Garin Vincent , Baddam Rekha , Rao Kumra Vittal , Nedumaran Swamikannu , Selvaraj Aravazhi
Published: March 2022

Sorghum plays an important role in the mixed crop–livestock system of tribal farming communities in Adilabad District, a high climate risk-prone region in India. Currently, the local seed system is limited to landraces and hybrids that are primarily used for domestic grain and fodder purposes. This study aimed to understand the farmers' needs and context, and use this knowledge to deliver relevant, adoptable climate-smart sorghum crop technologies through farmer-participatory approaches (FPAs). We conducted an ex-ante survey with 103 farmer households to understand their preferences and constraints concerning sorghum, their staple food-crop. Farmers expressed taste as the most important characteristic, followed by stover yield, grain yield, drought adaptation, and pest resistance. They identified fodder deficit, loss of seed purity in landraces, and lack of diverse sorghum seed options as critical constraints. Therefore, we chose dual-purpose, open-pollinated sorghum varieties suitable for postrainy/rabi cultivation as the study site's entry point. Accordingly, sixteen popular rabi sorghum varieties were tested at ICRISAT station (2017–18 and 2018–19) for agronomic performance in field conditions under a range of treatments (irrigation and fertilization). The standing crop was also scored by farmer representatives. Additionally, the detailed lysifield study elucidated the plant functions underlying the crop agronomic performance under water stress (plant water use and stay-green score) and an important trait of farmer's interest (relation between stay-green score and in-vitro stover digestibility and relation between grain fat and protein content) The selected varieties– Phule Chitra, CSV22, M35-1 and preferred landrace (Sevata jonna)–were further tested with 21 farmers at Adilabad (2018–20). Participating farmers from both the trials and focus group discussions voiced their preference and willingness to adopt Phule Chitra and CSV22. This article summarizes how system-relevant crop options were selected for subsistence farmers of Adilabad and deployed using participatory approaches. While varieties are developed for wider adoption, farmers adopt only those suitable for their farm, household, and accessible market. Therefore, we strongly advocate FPA for developing and delivering farmer relevant crop technologies as a vehicle to systematically break crop adoption barriers and create a positive impact on household diets, well-being, and livelihoods, especially for smallholder subsistence farmers.
Keeping Up With Rising (Quality) Demands? The Transition of a Wild Food Resource to Mass Market, Using the Example of Baobab in Malawi
Authors: Meinhold Kathrin , Darr Dietrich
Published: March 2022

The importance of wild food resources, particularly from our forests, is increasingly recognized in the context of food systems transformation and derived products are increasingly also entering modern food supply chains. The transformation of a wild, solely traditionally used resource to a product available in retail, however, has consequences, not all of which are currently well understood. Using the rapidly increasing commercialization of baobab fruit products in Malawi as a case study we, therefore, aim to shed light on aspects such a transformation may have on product quality and supply chain organization. Using a mixed-methods approach a total of 68 baobab value chain actors targeting either formal or informal markets were interviewed, focusing on perceived baobab quality characteristics as well as linkages across the value chain, concurrently collecting product samples if the interviewees had these at hand. The baobab supply chain was shown to have elongated in recent years, with a variety of actors now active on the scene, including baobab collectors, a variety of traders often directly picking up baobab resources at source, microenterprises producing baobab ice lollies for informal markets, or more formal juice processors targeting retail outlets. A broad variety of harvest, storage, or processing practices was observed and product quality differed widely, whereas mycotoxins were detected in two of the analyzed samples. Storage of baobab products can last several months with harvesting activities peaking in April, yet sales dominating in the hot months toward the end of the year. Dryness was commonly identified as the most important quality indicator, but other factors such as cracks in the shell were more heavily disputed amongst different value chain actors. Although different quality standards have to be observed to be able to sell in formal retail outlets, risks of low-quality baobab entering formal retail outlets remains with the majority of more formal baobab processors obtaining their raw material via informal pathways. There is a dire need to strengthen the institutional framework and enabling environment to foster the best-possible integration of forest resources into prevailing agri-food systems and enable the production of high-quality products for both the formal and the informal sector.
Functional Properties of Physically Pretreated Kidney Bean and Mung Bean Flours and Their Performance in Microencapsulation of a Carotenoid-Rich Oil
Authors: Locali-Pereira Adilson Roberto , Kubo Mirian Tiaki Kaneiwa , Fuzetti Caroline Gregoli , Nicoletti Vânia Regina
Published: March 2022

Microencapsulation can improve protection for compounds that degrade easily, such as β-carotene that is present in large amounts in buriti oil (Mauritia flexuosa). Encapsulating matrices are mainly composed of proteins and polysaccharides, which are often combined to improve their performance as a protective barrier. Beans, such as dark red kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) and mung beans (Vigna radiata), are excellent protein sources that contain significant amounts of the essential amino acids. Bean flours are low in fat and naturally provide a blend of high-quality protein and carbohydrates that may stabilize lipophilic compounds for subsequent spray-drying. Whole bean flours, rather than refined individual biopolymers, may represent more sustainable alternative wall materials for microencapsulate bioactive compounds. This work aimed to evaluate the use of flours produced from red kidney beans and mung beans, which have been submitted to different physical pretreatments, as wall materials for microencapsulation of buriti oil by spray-drying. Different bean treatments were evaluated: untreated (control), soaked in water for 24 h, and soaked in water for 24 h followed by boiling for 30 min. The flours' proximate composition was not affected by the treatments (p < 0.05), showing similar values of carbohydrate (63.8–67.9%), protein (19.2–24.6%), and lipid (1.2–1.9%) contents. Both bean species had the water absorption capacity (WAC) increased by boiling, while the oil absorption capacity (OAC) was not altered by the treatments. Flours produced with raw or soaked beans showed emulsion activity (EA) and emulsion stability (ES) greater than 70%. Raw bean flours also showed better foaming properties, which may be indicative of higher levels of antinutritional factors. The soaked bean flours showed the best results for both type of beans, especially with regard to emulsifying properties, and were selected as wall materials for buriti oil microencapsulation. Different ratios of flour and maltodextrin were used to produce oil-in-water emulsions that were then spray-dried. Buriti oil microcapsules showed good physicochemical properties, with moisture around 3%, aw <0.3, and hygroscopicity around 5%. The carotenoid encapsulation efficiency ranged from 68.2 to 77.9%. Bean flours showed to function as a sustainable and nutrient-rich alternative wall material for microencapsulation.
Analysis of Short-Term Efficacy of Gasless Single-Port Laparoscopic Inguinal Lymphadenectomy Through Vulva Incision for Vulvar Cancer
Authors: Ding Jin , Teng Piaopiao , Guan Xiaoming , Luo Yonghong , Ding Huafeng , Shi Suhua , Zhou Xiufen , Ni Guantai
Published: March 2022

Objective

To investigate the feasibility and short-term efficacy of gasless single-port laparoscopic inguinal lymphadenectomy through vulva incision (VEIL-V).

Methods

The data of 9 patients diagnosed as vulvar squamous cell carcinoma who underwent single-port laparoscopic inguinal lymph node dissection through vulvectomy incision were retrospectively analyzed. And 13 patients who underwent laparoscopic inguinal lymph node dissection through lower abdominal subcutaneous approach as the control group (VEIL-H). The operation time, blood loss, numbers of unilateral lymph nodes, hospitalization time, and complications between the two groups were compared.

Results

The operation time of VEIL-V was 56.11 ± 5.94 min, which were shorter than that of VEIL-H (74.62 ± 5.50 min; P = 0.013). Bleeding amount in the VEIL-H was 29.44 ± 2.56, which was significantly lower than that of the VEIL-H group (43.08 ± 4.14 ml; P = 0.021). In the two groups, the numbers of unilateral lymph nodes harvested were similar. The differences in the postoperative hospital stay, skin, and lymphatic complications were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Compared with VEIL-H, gasless single-port laparoscopic inguinal lymphadenectomy through vulva incision reduces the difficulty of operation with shorter operation time, and less blood loss, which can be a safe and mini-invasive surgical approach.
Prevention of Incident Hypertension in Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treated With Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure: A Cohort Study
Authors: Lin Yi-Chih , Chen Chun-Tien , Chao Pin-Zhir , Chen Po-Yueh , Liu Wen-Te , Tsao Sheng-Teng , Lin Sheng-Feng , Bai Chyi-Huey
Published: March 2022

Purpose

To determine whether treatment with uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) prevents hypertension, compared to those not receiving any treatment.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted among 413 patients with OSA (age ≥ 35 years) at the Shuang Ho Hospital between 2009 and 2016. The patients were divided into three groups: UPPP, CPAP, and non-treatment groups. Data about the personal characteristics, history of comorbidities, and polysomnography (PSG) reports were collected at baseline. A Cox model with inverse probability of treatment weighting was used to adjust for confounders and baseline diversity.

Results

After multivariate adjustment and weighting for incident hypertension, patients in both the CPAP and UPPP groups showed a significant preventive effect on hypertension than in the non-treatment group. Moreover, patients in the CPAP group had lower event rates than those in the UPPP group.

Conclusion

UPPP can prevent the development of new-onset hypertension in patients with OSA. CPAP had a better preventive effect than UPPP. UPPP might be a good alternative for reducing the risk of the onset of hypertension when compliance to CPAP is poor.
Non-sliding Fixation Shows Improved Clinical Outcomes for Displaced Femoral Neck Fractures as Compared to Sliding Fixation
Authors: Xu Xiangyu , Lv Yang , Cui Zengzhen , Fan Jixing , Zhou Fang , Tian Yun , Ji Hongquan , Zhang Zhishan , Guo Yan , Yang Zhongwei , Hou Guojin
Published: March 2022

Objective

To compare the clinical outcomes between use of sliding fixation (three cannulated screws, TCS) and non-sliding fixation (four cannulated screws, FCS) in the treatment of femoral neck fractures.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 102 patients with fresh femoral neck fractures treated with TCS (60 cases) and FCS (42 cases) between January, 2018 and December, 2019. The demographic data, follow-up time, hospitalization time, operation time, blood loss, length of femoral neck shortening (LFNS), soft tissue irritation of the thigh (STIT), Harris hip score, and complications (such as internal fixation failure, non-union, and avascular necrosis of the femoral head) were also collected, recorded, and compared between the two groups.

Results

A total of 102 patients with an average age of 60.9 (range, 18–86) years were analyzed. The median follow-up time was 25 (22 to 32) months. The LFNS in the FCS group (median 1.2 mm) was significantly lower than that in the TCS group (median 2.8 mm) (P < 0.05). In the Garden classification, the number of displaced fractures in the TCS group was significantly lower than that in the FCS group (P < 0.05). The median hospitalization time, operation time, blood loss, reduction quality, internal fixation failure rate (IFFR), STIT, and Harris hip score were not statistically different between the two groups (P > 0.05). However, in the subgroup analysis of displaced fractures, the LFNS (median 1.2 mm), STIT (2/22, 13.6%), and Harris hip score (median 91.5) of the FCS group at the last follow-up were significantly better than the LFNS (median 5.7 mm), STIT (7/16, 43.8%), and Harris hip score (median 89) of the TCS group (P < 0.05). No complications such as incision infection, deep infection, pulmonary embolism, or femoral head necrosis were found in either group.

Conclusion

TCS and FCS are effective for treating femoral neck fractures. For non-displaced fractures, there was no significant difference in the clinical outcomes between the two groups. However, for displaced fractures, the LFNS of the FCS is significantly lower than that of the TCS, which may reduce the occurrence of STIT and improve the Harris hip score.
When to Reduce and Fix Displaced Lesser Trochanter in Treatment of Trochanteric Fracture: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yang Ao-Lei , Mao Wei , Wu Jun-Guo , He Yi-Qun , Ni Hao-Fei , Li Hai-Long , Dong You-Hai
Published: March 2022

Purpose

To systematically evaluate the benefits of reducing and fixing displaced lesser trochanter (LT) of trochanteric fractures and when this procedure is worth the effect.

Methods

From database establishment through March 2021, four online databases (PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and Web of Science) were searched for relevant literature that investigated reduction and fixation for displaced LT of trochanteric fractures. The papers were then screened by two reviewers independently and in duplicate according to prior inclusion and exclusion criteria. Demographic data as well as data on fracture types, surgical protocols, and surgical outcomes were recorded, analyzed, and interpreted.

Results

Total 10 clinical studies with 928 patients were included, in which 48 cases had intact LT and 880 cases involved the displaced LT, of which 196 (22.27%) cases underwent reduction and fixation for LT while the rest of 684 (77.73%) cases not. In these studies, complications were evaluated as a more applicable predictive parameter for operation than postoperative hip function.

Conclusion

It was beneficial to reduce and fix the displaced LT when one of the conditions below occurred: displacement distance of LT ≥2 cm, quantity of comminuted LT fragments ≥2, and range of LT fragments in medial wall ≥75%; the fracture line of LT fragments reaching or exceeding the midline of the posterior wall.
A Clinical-Radiomic Model for Predicting Indocyanine Green Retention Rate at 15 Min in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wu Ji , Xie Feng , Ji Hao , Zhang Yiyang , Luo Yi , Xia Lei , Lu Tianfei , He Kang , Sha Meng , Zheng Zhigang , Yong Junekong , Li Xinming , Zhao Di , Yang Yuting , Xia Qiang , Xue Feng
Published: March 2022

Purpose:

The indocyanine green retention rate at 15 min (ICG-R15) is of great importance in the accurate assessment of hepatic functional reserve for safe hepatic resection. To assist clinicians to evaluate hepatic functional reserve in medical institutions that lack expensive equipment, we aimed to explore a novel approach to predict ICG-R15 based on CT images and clinical data in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

In this retrospective study, 350 eligible patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to the training cohort (245 patients) and test cohort (105 patients). Radiomics features and clinical factors were analyzed to pick out the key variables, and based on which, we developed the random forest regression, extreme gradient boosting regression (XGBR), and artificial neural network models for predicting ICG-R15, respectively. Pearson's correlation coefficient (R) was adopted to evaluate the performance of the models.

Results

We extracted 660 CT image features in total from each patient. Fourteen variables significantly associated with ICG-R15 were picked out for model development. Compared to the other two models, the XGBR achieved the best performance in predicting ICG-R15, with a mean difference of 1.59% (median, 1.53%) and an R-value of 0.90. Delong test result showed no significant difference in the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROCs) for predicting post hepatectomy liver failure between actual and estimated ICG-R15.

Conclusion

The proposed approach that incorporates the optimal radiomics features and clinical factors can allow for individualized prediction of ICG-R15 value of patients with HCC, regardless of the specific equipment and detection reagent (NO. ChiCTR2100053042; URL, http://www.chictr.org.cn).
Improvement of Negative Psychological Stress Response in Elderly Patients With Femoral Neck Fracture by Integrated High-Quality Nursing Model of Medical Care
Authors: Li Qun , Wang Yin , Shen Xiang
Published: March 2022

Objective

The objective of this study was to explore the nursing effect and negative psychological stress response of elderly patients with femoral neck fracture by applying the high-quality nursing mode of medical care.

Methods

A total of 130 elderly patients with femoral neck fractures hospitalized in our hospital from January 2020 to June 2021 were randomly divided into the control group and observation group, with 65 patients in each group. The control group adopted the conventional nursing mode, while the observation group adopted the high-quality nursing mode of medical care. The observation indexes selected in this study are nursing satisfaction, hip flexion activity on the 1, 15, and 30 days after the operation, the time when the affected limb was lifted off the bed actively, and the anxiety and depression of patients.

Results

On the 1, 15, and 30 days after the operation, there were statistically significant differences between the two groups in hip flexion activity and the time when the affected limb was lifted off the bed (P < 0.05). The nursing satisfaction of the observation group was 95.38%, which was statistically significant compared with the 80.00% of the control group (P < 0.05). After treatment, the self rating depression scale (SDS) and self rating anxiety scale (SAS) scores in the observation group were lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The high-quality nursing model of medical care can effectively promote the rehabilitation of elderly patients with femoral neck fracture, reduce the negative psychological stress reaction of patients, and improve nursing satisfaction, which has important application value and guiding significance for the nursing of patients with femoral neck fracture.
Anal Fistula Human Amniotic Membrane Endosealing (F-HAME): A Proof of Concept Study
Authors: Grossi Ugo , Romano Maurizio , Rossi Serena , Gallo Gaetano , Picciariello Arcangelo , Felice Carla , Trojan Diletta , Montagner Giulia , Zanus Giacomo
Published: March 2022

The treatment of cryptoglandular anal fistula (AF) is often a challenge for surgeons. Several sphincter-saving procedures have been described as an alternative to fistulotomy, with the common goal of promoting healing and preserve anal continence. The aim of this proof of concept study was to assess the outcomes of human amniotic membrane (HAM) implantation in cryptoglandular transphincteric AF. Two consecutive female were recruited. The primary outcome was clinical healing at 6 months. Secondary outcomes were ultrasonographic healing, complications and reinterventions, AF symptoms, fecal incontinence, psychological impact of treatment, recurrence, development of additional AF, patient satisfaction, and quality of life, as measured using validated questionnaires. Both patients (40 and 54-year-old) previously underwent incision and drainage of anal abscess with concomitant seton placement. HAM implantation was performed as a day case under local anesthesia. No intra- or post-procedural complications occurred. Clinical and radiological healing were not achieved at 6 months. However, the external outlet discharge diminished through time, with sustained improvements in quality of life. Clinical healing occurred at 7 months in both patients. Psychological impact of treatment and patient satisfaction were overall good, with improvements in the PHQ-9, GAD-7, and Short Assessment of Patients Satisfaction. HAM implantation is safe and improves patients' quality of life, progressively leading to clinical healing. Future studies are needed to assess its safety in other etiology of AF.
Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Relationships of Tulathromycin Against Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae in a Porcine Tissue Cage Infection Model
Authors: Yao Lihua , Yang Lan , Ling Yuzhou , Wei Yanzhe , Shen Xiangguang , Ding Huanzhong
Published: March 2022

Tulathromycin is a semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic that is highly effective in treating respiratory tract bacterial infections. We evaluated thein vivoantibacterial activity of tulathromycin againstActinobacillus pleuropneumoniaein piglets and determined its pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) relationships using a tissue cage infection model.A. pleuropneumoniae(108CFU/ml) was exposed to tulathromycin via intramuscular injection followed by a collection of cage tissue fluids at various intervals. The percentage of time the drug concentration remained above the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) divided by the dosing interval (%T > MIC) was the best PK/PD index to describe the antibacterial efficacy of tulathromycin (R2= 0.9421). The %T > MIC values required to achieve 1 – log10CFU/ml reductions and bactericidal activity (3 – log10CFU/ml reduction) were 50.8 and 96.38%, respectively. These results demonstrated that maintaining %T > MIC above 96.38% achieved bactericidal activity and thereby optimized the clinical dosage.
Impact of Enrichment and Repeated Mixing on Resilience in Pigs
Authors: Luo Lu , Zande Lisette E. van der , Marwijk Manon A. van , Knol Egbert Frank , Rodenburg T. Bas , Bolhuis J. Elizabeth , Parois Severine P.
Published: March 2022

Resilience, the capacity of animals to be minimally affected by a disturbance or to rapidly bounce back to the state before the challenge, may be improved by enrichment, but negatively impacted by a high allostatic load from stressful management procedures in pigs. We investigated the combined effects of diverging environmental conditions from weaning and repeated mixing to create high allostatic load on resilience of pigs. Pigs were either exposed to barren housing conditions (B) from weaning onwards or provided with sawdust, extra toys, regular access to a “play arena” and daily positive human contact (E). Half of the pigs were exposed to repeated mixing (RM) and the other half to one mixing only at weaning (minimal mixing, MM). To assess their resilience, the response to and recovery from a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) sickness challenge and a Frustration challenge were studied. In addition, potential long-term resilience indicators, i.e. natural antibodies, hair cortisol and growth were measured. Some indications of more favorable responses to the challenges in E pigs were found, such as lower serum reactive oxygen metabolite (dROM) concentrations and a smaller area under the curve of dROM after LPS injection. In the Frustration challenge, E pigs showed less standing alert, escape behaviors and other negative behaviors, a tendency for a smaller area under the curve of salivary cortisol and a lower plasma cortisol level at 1 h after the challenge. Aggression did not decrease over mixings in RM pigs and was higher in B pigs than in E pigs. Repeated mixing did not seem to reduce resilience. Contrary to expectations, RM pigs showed a higher relative growth than MM pigs during the experiment, especially in the week of the challenges. Barren RM pigs showed a lower plasma cortisol concentration than barren MM pigs after the LPS challenge, which may suggest that those RM pigs responded less detrimentally than MM pigs. Enriched RM pigs showed a higher level of IgM antibodies binding keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) than enriched MM and barren RM pigs, and RM pigs showed a sharper decline in IgG antibodies binding Bovine Serum Albumin (PC-BSA) over time than MM pigs. Hair cortisol concentrations were not affected by enrichment or mixing. To conclude, enrichment did not enhance the speed of recovery from challenges in pigs, although there were indications of reduced stress. Repeated as opposed to single mixing did not seem to aggravate the negative effects of barren housing on resilience and for some parameters even seemed to reduce the negative effects of barren housing.
Persistent Circulation of Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) O157:H7 in Cattle Farms: Characterization of Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7 Strains and Fecal Microbial Communities of Bovine Shedders and Non-shedders
Authors: Bibbal Delphine , Ruiz Philippe , Sapountzis Panagiotis , Mazuy-Cruchaudet Christine , Loukiadis Estelle , Auvray Frédéric , Forano Evelyne , Brugère Hubert
Published: March 2022

Cattle are carriers, without clinical manifestations, of enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) O157:H7 responsible for life-threatening infections in humans. A better identification of factors playing a role in maintaining persistence of such strains in cattle is required to develop more effective control measures. Hence, we conducted a study to identify farms with a persistent circulation of EHEC O157:H7. The EHEC O157:H7 herd status of 13 farms, which had previously provided bovine EHEC O157:H7 carriers at slaughter was investigated. Two farms were still housing positive young bulls, and this was true over a 1-year period. Only one fecal sample could be considered from a supershedder, and 60% of the carriers shed concentrations below 10 MPN/g. Moreover, EHEC O157:H7 represented minor subpopulations of E. coli. PFGE analysis of the EHEC O157:H7 strains showed that persistent circulation was due either to the persistence of a few predominant strains or to the repeated exposure of cattle to various strains. Finally, we compared fecal microbial communities of shedders (S) (n = 24) and non-shedders (NS) (n = 28), including 43 young bulls and nine cows, from one farm. Regarding alpha diversity, no significant difference between S vs. NS young bulls (n = 43) was observed. At the genus level, we identified 10 amplicon sequence variant (ASV) indicators of the S or NS groups. The bacterial indicators of S belonged to the family XIII UCG-001, Slackia, and Campylobacter genera, and Ruminococcaceae NK4A21A, Lachnospiraceae-UGC-010, and Lachnospiraceae-GCA-900066575 groups. The NS group indicator ASVs were affiliated to Pirellulaceae-1088-a5 gut group, Anaerovibrio, Victivallis, and Sellimonas genera. In conclusion, the characteristics enhancing the persistence of some predominant strains observed here should be explored further, and studies focused on mechanisms of competition among E. coli strains are also needed.