bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative efficacy and safety of non-pharmacological interventions as adjunctive treatment for vascular dementia: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Yi Yunhao , Qu Yiwei , Lv Shimeng , Zhang Guangheng , Rong Yuanhang , Li Ming
Published: July 2024

Objectives

The incidence of vascular dementia (VaD) is steadily rising annually, significantly impacting the mental well-being and overall quality of life of the elderly, and imposing substantial economic burdens on families and society. In recent years, non-pharmacological therapies as supplementary treatments for VaD have garnered significant attention and have been extensively utilized in clinical settings. Consequently, a network meta-analysis (NMA) was conducted by us to assess the effectiveness of various non-pharmacological therapies in the management of VaD.

Design

We systematically searched seven databases from their inception up to January 2024 to identify randomized controlled trials focusing on non-pharmacological interventions for the treatment of VaD. The methodological quality and risk of bias were rigorously assessed utilizing the RoB 2.0 evaluation tool. The NMA was performed using R software and STATA 14 software, adhering to frequentist theory principles. Additionally, sensitivity analysis, meta-regression analysis, and funnel plot were conducted to assess the stability, heterogeneity, and publication bias, respectively.

Results

The NMA included 91 eligible studies involving 7,657 patients. The NMA results indicated that in terms of improving Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the following non-pharmacological interventions ranked higher based on p-value: acupuncture_moxibustion_ conventional treatment (ACUP_MB_CT) [P-score = 0.95; pooled mean difference (95% CI): 5.09 (3.82; 6.36)], fastigial nucleus stimulation_CT (FNS_CT) [0.87; 4.51 (2.59; 6.43)], ACUP_rehabilitation training_CT (ACUP_RT_CT) [0.84; 4.19 (2.77; 5.61)], repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation_CT (rTMS_CT) [0.82; 3.98 (3.08; 4.88)], and aerobic exercise_CT (AE_CT) [0.82; 4.25 (1.86; 6.64)]. Regarding improvement in Activities of Daily Living Scale (ADL), the following non-pharmacological interventions ranked higher based on P-score: ACUP_MB_CT [0.98; 17.21 (13.19; 21.23)], ACUP_RT_CT [0.87; 14.32 (8.43; 20.22)], rTMS_CT [0.78; 11.83 (9.92; 13.75)], and ACUP_CT [0.73; 11.23 (9.26; 13.19)]. No significant adverse reactions were reported in the included studies.

Conclusion

ACUP_MB_CT may be considered the most efficacious intervention for enhancing cognitive function and daily living skills in individuals diagnosed with VaD. Furthermore, ACUP_RT_CT, rTMS_CT, FNS_CT, ACUP_CT, and AE_CT also demonstrate significant clinical utility. Non-pharmacological interventions are unlikely to significantly increase adverse reactions and has a certain degree of safety.

Systematic review registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier [CRD42024498902].
Transcranial direct current stimulation combined with language-cognitive training improves language and cognitive ability in children with language delay
Authors: Zhou Huichang , Xu Yunxian , Chen Lishan , Yuan Jiajian , Guan Zhiyong , Liang Peng
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Language delay cannot be ignored, and there is an urgent need to determine therapies that elicit better results in a short period. However, whether transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) alone or in combination with other therapies can promote recovery of language and cognitive function in children with language delay remains unknown. This study aims to explore the effects of tDCS combined with language-cognitive training and home-based rehabilitation on language and cognitive ability in children with language delay.

Methods

Children with language delay who visited the Department of rehabilitation medicine or the pediatric outpatient clinic of the First People’s Hospital of Foshan from January 2019 to December 2021, totaling 190 in number, were included and randomly divided into 4 groups, i.e., the family guidance group, the tDCS group, the language-cognitive training group, and the comprehensive training group. The family guidance group (47 cases) received home training. The tDCS group (46 cases) received home training and tDCS treatment. The language- cognitive training group (49 cases) adopted home training and language-cognitive training. The comprehensive training group (48 cases) took home training, language-cognitive training, and tDCS treatment. All groups received training 5 times a week for 4 weeks. The Sign-significant relations (S-S) test was applied to evaluate the language comprehension, language expression, basic learning ability, and attitude of communication of the children.

Results

The language-cognitive training group and the comprehensive training group showed improvement after treatment (p < 0.05) regarding basic learning ability. The communication attitude of the four groups improved after intervention (p < 0.05). Particularly, the comprehensive training group had maximum improvement after intervention. No serious adverse reactions such as epilepsy, headache, and behavioral abnormalities were found.

Conclusion

tDCS combined with language-cognitive training and home training can improve language and cognitive ability in children with language delay.
Krill oil: nutraceutical potential in skin health and disease
Authors: Duo Lan , Yang Jianzhong , Wang Xue , Zhang Gang , Zhao Jiuxiang , Zou Hong , Wang Zhi , Li Yu
Published: July 2024

Krill oil (KO), extracted from the Antarctic marine crustacean Euphausia superba, is a nutrient-dense substance that includes rich profiles of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), phospholipids (PLs), astaxanthin (ASX), as well as vitamins A and E, minerals, and flavonoids. As a high-quality lipid resource, KO has been widely used as a dietary supplement for its health-protective properties in recent years. KO has various benefits, including antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, metabolic regulatory, neuroprotective, and gut microbiome modulatory effects. Especially, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects make KO have potential in skin care applications. With increasing demands for natural skin anti-aging solutions, KO has emerged as a valuable nutraceutical in dermatology, showing potential for mitigating the effects of skin aging and enhancing overall skin health and vitality. This review provides an overview of existing studies on the beneficial impact of KO on the skin, exploring its functional roles and underlying mechanisms through which it contributes to dermatological health and disease management.
Performance of ChatGPT-4 and Bard chatbots in responding to common patient questions on prostate cancer 177Lu-PSMA-617 therapy
Authors: Belge Bilgin Gokce , Bilgin Cem , Childs Daniel S. , Orme Jacob J. , Burkett Brian J. , Packard Ann T. , Johnson Derek R. , Thorpe Matthew P. , Riaz Irbaz Bin , Halfdanarson Thorvardur R. , Johnson Geoffrey B. , Sartor Oliver , Kendi Ayse Tuba
Published: July 2024

Background

Many patients use artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots as a rapid source of health information. This raises important questions about the reliability and effectiveness of AI chatbots in delivering accurate and understandable information.

Purpose

To evaluate and compare the accuracy, conciseness, and readability of responses from OpenAI ChatGPT-4 and Google Bard to patient inquiries concerning the novel 177Lu-PSMA-617 therapy for prostate cancer.

Materials and methods

Two experts listed the 12 most commonly asked questions by patients on 177Lu-PSMA-617 therapy. These twelve questions were prompted to OpenAI ChatGPT-4 and Google Bard. AI-generated responses were distributed using an online survey platform (Qualtrics) and blindly rated by eight experts. The performances of the AI chatbots were evaluated and compared across three domains: accuracy, conciseness, and readability. Additionally, potential safety concerns associated with AI-generated answers were also examined. The Mann-Whitney U and chi-square tests were utilized to compare the performances of AI chatbots.

Results

Eight experts participated in the survey, evaluating 12 AI-generated responses across the three domains of accuracy, conciseness, and readability, resulting in 96 assessments (12 responses x 8 experts) for each domain per chatbot. ChatGPT-4 provided more accurate answers than Bard (2.95 ± 0.671 vs 2.73 ± 0.732, p=0.027). Bard’s responses had better readability than ChatGPT-4 (2.79 ± 0.408 vs 2.94 ± 0.243, p=0.003). Both ChatGPT-4 and Bard achieved comparable conciseness scores (3.14 ± 0.659 vs 3.11 ± 0.679, p=0.798). Experts categorized the AI-generated responses as incorrect or partially correct at a rate of 16.6% for ChatGPT-4 and 29.1% for Bard. Bard’s answers contained significantly more misleading information than those of ChatGPT-4 (p = 0.039).

Conclusion

AI chatbots have gained significant attention, and their performance is continuously improving. Nonetheless, these technologies still need further improvements to be considered reliable and credible sources for patients seeking medical information on 177Lu-PSMA-617 therapy.
A novel basement membrane-related gene signature predicts prognosis and immunotherapy response in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Li Bingyao , Che Yingkun , Zhu Puhua , Xu Yuanpeng , Yu Haibo , Li Deyu , Ding Xiangming
Published: July 2024

Background

Basement membranes (BMs) have recently emerged as significant players in cancer progression and metastasis, rendering them promising targets for potential anti-cancer therapies. Here, we aimed to develop a novel signature of basement membrane-related genes (BMRGs) for the prediction of clinical prognosis and tumor microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

The differentially expressed BMRGs were subjected to univariate Cox regression analysis to identify BMRGs with prognostic significance. A six-BMRGs risk score model was constructed using Least Absolute Shrinkage Selection Operator (LASSO) Cox regression. Furthermore, a nomogram incorporating the BMRGs score and other clinicopathological features was developed for accurate prediction of survival rate in patients with HCC.

Results

A total of 121 differentially expressed BMRGs were screened from the TCGA HCC cohort. The functions of these BMRGs were significantly enriched in the extracellular matrix structure and signal transduction. The six-BMRGs risk score, comprising CD151, CTSA, MMP1, ROBO3, ADAMTS5 and MEP1A, was established for the prediction of clinical prognosis, tumor microenvironment characteristics, and immunotherapy response in HCC. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that the BMRGs score-high group showed a significantly shorter overall survival than BMRGs score-low group. A nomogram showed that the BMRGs score could be used as a new effective clinical predictor and can be combined with other clinical variables to improve the prognosis of patients with HCC. Furthermore, the high BMRGs score subgroup exhibited an immunosuppressive state characterized by infiltration of macrophages and T-regulatory cells, elevated tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion (TIDE) score, as well as enhanced expression of immune checkpoints including PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA4, PD-L2, HAVCR2, and TIGIT. Finally, a multi-step analysis was conducted to identify two pivotal hub genes, PKM and ITGA3, in the high-scoring group of BMRGs, which exhibited significant associations with an unfavorable prognosis in HCC.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that the BMRGs score can serve as a robust biomarker for predicting clinical outcomes and evaluating the tumor microenvironment in patients with HCC, thereby facilitating more effective clinical implementation of immunotherapy.
Increased risk of cardiovascular disease among kidney cancer survivors: a nationwide population-based cohort study
Authors: Jung Minji , Choo Eunjung , Li Shufeng , Deng Zhengyi , Li Jinhui , Li Mingyi , Basran Satvir , Lee Sukhyang , Langston Marvin E. , Chung Benjamin I.
Published: July 2024

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major concern of morbidity and mortality among cancer survivors. However, few evidence exists on the short- and long-term risk of CVD in kidney cancer (KCa) survivors.

Methods

In this nationwide, large population-based retrospective cohort study, we used the Korean national health insurance and medical checkup survey linkage database (2007-2021), drawn from the entire Korean population. We included adults diagnosed with KCa as the first primary cancer and matched them to an individual without KCa at a 1:5 ratio. The primary outcome was CVD incidence, including myocardial infarction, stroke, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, peripheral arterial occlusion, and venous thromboembolism (VTE). We evaluated CVD risk at 6 months, 1 year, and 5 years following cancer diagnosis, using Fine-Gray competing risk models that accounted for death as a competing factor.

Results

A total of 149,232 participants were included (KCa survivors: N=20,093 and matched non-KCa individuals: N=129,139). After 6-month follow-up, KCa survivors showed an increased risk of CVD compared to the general population (subdistribution hazard ratio (HR) 2.70, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.31-3.15). After 1 year, KCa survivors had a higher risk of CVD (HR=1.77, 95% CI: 1.56-2.00). After 5 years, this elevated CVD risk remained (HR=1.10, 95% CI: 1.03-1.18), with VTE identified as the primary contributing disease (HR=3.05, 95% CI:2.59-3.59).

Conclusion

KCa survivors had an increased risk of CVD up to 5 years after cancer diagnosis compared to the general population. Our findings emphasize the importance of comprehensive healthcare management for both CVD and KCa throughout cancer survivorship.
The sparing effect of ultra-high dose rate irradiation on the esophagus
Authors: Ren Wenting , Hou Lu , Zhang Ke , Chen Huan , Feng Xin , Jiang Ziming , Shao Fei , Dai Jianrong , Gao Yibo , He Jie
Published: July 2024

Background and purpose

Current studies have substantiated the sparing effect of ultra-high dose rate irradiation (FLASH) in various organs including the brain, lungs, and intestines. Whether this sparing effect extends to esophageal tissue remains unexplored. This study aims to compare the different responses of esophageal tissue in histological and protein expression levels following conventional dose rate irradiation (CONV) and FLASH irradiation to ascertain the presence of a sparing effect.

Methods and materials

C57 female mice were randomly divided into three groups: control, CONV, and FLASH groups. The chest region of the mice in the radiation groups was exposed to a prescribed dose of 20 Gy using a modified electron linear accelerator. The CONV group received an average dose rate of 0.1 Gy/s, while the FLASH group received an average dose rate of 125 Gy/s. On the 10th day after irradiation, the mice were euthanized and their esophagi were collected for histopathological analysis. Subsequently, label-free proteomic quantification analysis was performed on esophageal tissue. The validation process involved analyzing transmission electron microscopy images and utilizing the parallel reaction monitoring method.

Results

Histopathology results indicated a significantly lower extent of esophageal tissue damage in the FLASH group compared to the CONV group (p < 0.05). Label-free quantitative proteomic analysis revealed that the sparing effect observed in the FLASH group may be attributed to a reduction in radiation-induced protein damage associated with mitochondrial functions, including proteins involved in the tricarboxylic acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation, as well as a decrease in acute inflammatory responses.

Conclusions

Compared with CONV irradiation, a sparing effect on esophageal tissue can be observed after FLASH irradiation. This sparing effect is associated with alleviated mitochondria damage and acute inflammation.
Carotid body plastic behavior: evidence for D2–H3 receptor–receptor interactions
Authors: Stocco Elena , Emmi Aron , Sfriso Maria Martina , Tushevski Aleksandar , De Caro Raffaele , Macchi Veronica , Porzionato Andrea
Published: July 2024

Dopamine and histamine receptors D2R and H3R are G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) which can establish physical receptor–receptor interactions (RRIs), leading to homo/hetero-complexes in a dynamic equilibrium. Although D2R and H3R expression has been detected within the carotid body (CB), their possible heterodimerization has never been demonstrated. The aim of this work was to verify D2R and H3R colocalization in the CB, thus suggesting a possible interplay that, in turn, may be responsible of specific D2R–H3R antagonistic functional implications. The CBs of both Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 5) and human donors (n = 5) were dissected, and immunolocalization of D2R and H3R was performed; thereafter, in situ proximity ligation assay (PLA) was developed. According to experimental evidence (immunohistochemistry and double immunofluorescence), all the samples displayed positive D2R/H3R elements; hence, PLA assay followed by confocal microscopy analysis was positive for D2R–H3R RRIs. Additionally, D2R–H3R heterodimers were mainly detected in type I cells (βIII-tubulin-positive cells), but type II cells’ involvement cannot be excluded. RRIs may play a role in functional modulation of CB cells; investigating RRIs in the CB may guide toward the comprehension of its plastic changes and fine regulatory role while also unveiling their possible clinical implications.
Pepper SBP-box transcription factor, CaSBP13, plays a negatively role in drought response
Authors: Zhang Huai-Xia , Zhang Yuan , Zhang Bo-Wen
Published: July 2024

The SBP-box gene significantly influences plant growth, development, and stress responses, yet its function in pepper plants during drought stress remains unexplored. Using virus-induced gene silencing and overexpression strategies, we examined the role of CaSBP13 during drought stress in plants. The results revealed that the expression of CaSBP13 can be induced by drought stress. Silencing of CaSBP13 in pepper notably boosted drought resistance, as evident by decreased active oxygen levels. Furthermore, the water loss rate, relative electrical conductivity, malondialdehyde content, and stomatal density were reduced in CaSBP13-silenced plants compared to controls. In contrast, CaSBP13 overexpression in Nicotiana benthamiana decreased drought tolerance with elevated reactive oxygen levels and stomatal density. Additionally, ABA signaling pathway genes (CaPP2C, CaAREB) exhibited reduced expression levels in CaSBP13-silenced plants post drought stress, as compared to control plants. On the contrary, CaPYL9 and CaSNRK2.4 showed heightened expression in CaSBP13-sienced plants under the same conditions. However, a converse trend for NbAREB, NbSNRK2.4, and NbPYL9 was observed post-four day drought in CaSBP13-overexpression plants. These findings suggest that CaSBP13 negatively regulates drought tolerance in pepper, potentially via ROS and ABA signaling pathways.
Students’ perceived restorativeness of university environment: the validation of the Rest@U scale
Authors: Menardo Elisa , Brondino Margherita , Damian Ottavia , Lezcano Marco , Marossi Camilla , Pasini Margherita
Published: July 2024

University students are likely to encounter mental health issues throughout their educational journey. Among the various factors that can impact students’ wellbeing, the physical environment can potentially restore cognitive, physiological, and emotional resources, thereby enhancing academic performance, and overall quality of life, while reducing feelings of stress and depression. The Perceived Restorativeness Scale is the most commonly used tool to assess the level of restorativeness derived from the educational physical environment. However, a tailored measure could be a more psychometrically suitable approach to capture the context-specific characteristics of university environments for academic students. This study aimed to validate an instrument that can accurately evaluate university spaces to measure the perceived restorativeness of university students. A total sample of 685 students from two Italian universities participated in the evaluation of the psychometric properties of the Restorativeness at University scale (Rest@US), consisting of 13 items divided into four dimensions: fascination, being-away, scope, and coherence. The hypothesised four-factor model (being-away, fascination, scope, and coherence) demonstrated excellent fit indices in both the calibration and validation samples and was invariant for sex. The scale demonstrates good reliability. Furthermore, criterion validity has been confirmed, highlighting that, in a theoretically consistent manner, the perceived restorativeness of university physical environments from the point of view of students and its dimensions were negatively correlated with techno-overload and study-related workload and positively correlated with perceived performance and psycho-physical wellbeing.
Q methodology as an integrative approach: bridging quantitative and qualitative insights in a mixed methods study on mathematics teachers’ beliefs
Authors: Buchholtz Nils , Vollstedt Maike
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This study explores the beliefs of pre-service mathematics teachers regarding the teaching and learning of mathematics.

Methods

We employed a mixed methods approach, combining quantitative Likert-scale surveys and Q methodology, an integrative quantitative and qualitative approach. A sample of 33 pre-service teachers participated in the study. Initially, Likert-scale surveys were used to ascertain general trends in belief orientations. Subsequently, the same participants engaged in a Q sort exercise, which allowed for a nuanced exploration of individual belief systems by prioritizing the same survey statements within a forced-choice grid. Qualitative interviews further enriched these findings.

Results

Q methodology analysis identified distinct belief profiles, characterized by their prioritization of specific educational practices and the contextual and subjective interpretations that underpin these preferences. The qualitative interviews provided deeper insight into the reasoning behind participants’ choices in the Q sort, illustrating the complex, sometimes contradictory nature of personally held beliefs that traditional Likert-scale approaches may obscure.

Discussion

Our results underscore the utility of combining Q methodology with conventional teacher belief survey techniques to achieve a more holistic understanding of pre-service teachers’ beliefs. This approach reveals the complexity within individual belief systems and highlights the potential for mixed methods research to refine the measurement and interpretation of psychological constructs in educational settings.
Deep brain stimulation for the treatment of substance use disorders: a promising approach requiring caution
Authors: Sakai Joseph T. , Tanabe Jody , Battula Sharonya , Zipperly Morgan , Mikulich-Gilbertson Susan K. , Kern Drew S. , Thompson John A. , Raymond Kristen , Gerecht Pamela David , Foster Katrina , Abosch Aviva
Published: July 2024

Substance use disorders are prevalent, causing extensive morbidity and mortality worldwide. Evidence-based treatments are of low to moderate effect size. Growth in the neurobiological understanding of addiction (e.g., craving) along with technological advancements in neuromodulation have enabled an evaluation of neurosurgical treatments for substance use disorders. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) involves surgical implantation of leads into brain targets and subcutaneous tunneling to connect the leads to a programmable implanted pulse generator (IPG) under the skin of the chest. DBS allows direct testing of neurobiologically-guided hypotheses regarding the etiology of substance use disorders in service of developing more effective treatments. Early studies, although with multiple limitations, have been promising. Still the authors express caution regarding implementation of DBS studies in this population and emphasize the importance of safeguards to ensure patient safety and meaningful study results. In this perspectives article, we review lessons learned through the years of planning an ongoing trial of DBS for methamphetamine use disorder.
A psychometric analysis of the adapted historical loss scale and historical loss associated symptoms scale among native Hawaiian adults
Authors: Antonio Mapuana C. K. , Keaulana Samantha , Ing Claire Townsend , Williams Madison , Dillard Adrienne , Kekauoha Bridget Puni , Kenney Meghan , Marshall Sarah Momilani , Cassel Kevin , Abrigo Scott , Kauhane Michelle , Kaholokula Joseph Keawe‘aimoku
Published: July 2024

Objectives

The Historical Loss Scale (HLS) and Historical Loss Associated Symptoms Scale (HLASS) are standardized measures that have been accepted and previously validated among North American Indigenous communities and allow researchers to measure the impact of Historical Loss. Evidence of the psychometric properties of this instrument have not been assessed for Native Hawaiians, the Indigenous peoples of Hawai‘i. The purpose of this study is to investigate the psychometric properties of the adapted HLS (aHLS) and HLASS for adults from multiple Hawaiian Homestead Communities throughout Hawai‘i.

Methods

Data are based on cross-sectional surveys administered between 2014 and 2020. The final sample included 491 Native Hawaiian adults who were predominantly female (67.3%) and between the ages of 18–90 years, who were part of the larger study entitled the Hawaiian Homestead Health Survey. Factor analyses were conducted to determine the final model structures of each scale. Reliability and correlation matrices of items are also reported.

Results

The final factor structure of the aHLS model suggested 3 factors: (1) General loss of culture or cultural loss, (2) Intergenerational loss, and (3) Distrust and destruction of traditional foods. The final HLASS model also suggested 3 factors: (1) Depression and Anger, (2) Shame and Anxiety, and (3) Re-experiencing, fear, and avoidance.

Conclusion

These findings have implications for future research, practice, and education that explores the role of Historical Loss and associated symptoms in Native Hawaiians and Indigenous communities at large. In particular, measuring historical loss and associated symptoms in Hawaiian Homestead communities paves the way for quantitative assessments of historical trauma and healing in these communities.
Enhanced astronaut hygiene and mission efficiency: a novel approach to in-suit waste management and water recovery in spacewalks
Authors: Etlin Sofia , Bielski Luca , Rose Julianna , Morales Karen , Belman Avery , Alexander Emma , Li Emma , Lin Richard , Patel Krishna , Rakhmonova Stephanie , Walter Claire , Mason Christopher E.
Published: July 2024

The current waste management system within the Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) consists of a disposable diaper—the Maximum Absorbency Garment (MAG)—that collects urine and feces during extravehicular activities (EVAs) that last up to 8 h. Such exposure to waste for prolonged periods of time contributes to hygiene-related medical events, including urinary tract infections and gastrointestinal distress. Historically, prior to using the MAG, astronauts have limited their food intake or eaten a low-residue diet before embarking on physically demanding spacewalks, reducing their work performance index (WPI) and posing a health risk. Furthermore, the current 0.95 L In-suit Drink Bag (IDB) does not provide sufficient water for more frequent, longer-range spacewalks, which carry greater potential for contingency scenarios requiring extended time away from a vehicle. High transport costs per pound to space and resource scarcity exacerbate these challenges, underscoring the need for water-efficient waste management. This paper introduces a novel in-suit urine collection and filtration system developed in the Mason Lab at Weill Cornell Medical College that could address these hygiene and hydration concerns. The device would collect astronaut urine via an external catheter and filter it using forward and reverse osmosis (FO-RO) into potable water, creating a sustainable and hygienic circular water economy, enhancing astronaut wellbeing. This research aims to achieve an 85% urine collection rate using a modified MAG. The modified MAG will be made of a flexible compression material lined with antimicrobial fabric, and urine is collected through a silicone urine collection cup, which differs for male and female astronauts to conform to anatomy. Urine collection via a vacuum pump is triggered by a humidity sensor that detects the presence of urine in the cup. The FO-RO filtration system targets a minimum of 75% water recovery, while consuming less than 10% of EMU energy. To meet health standards, the filtrate maintains low salt levels (<250 ppm NaCl) and effectively removes major urine solutes (urea, uric acid, ammonia, calcium). However, further research and testing are warranted to refine and implement these innovations for future space missions, contributing to the advancement of deep space exploration technologies and astronaut health and performance.
A meta-analysis of the impacts of best management practices on nonpoint source pollutant concentration
Authors: Schramm Michael , Kikoyo Duncan , Wright Janelle , Jain Shubham
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Best management practices (BMPs) are important tools for mitigating the impact of non-point source pollutants on water quality. Drivers of the high variance observed in BMP performance field tests are not well documented and present challenges for planning BMP construction and forecasting water quality improvements.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of published nonpoint source water quality BMP studies conducted in the United States and used a meta-analysis approach to describe variance in pollutant removal performance. We used meta-regression to explore how much BMP pollutant removal process, influent pollutant concentration, and aridity effected BMP performance.

Results

Despite high variance, we found the BMPs on average were effective at reducing fecal indicator bacteria (FIB), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), and total suspended sediment (TSS) concentrations. We found that influent concentration and interaction effect between the BMP pollutant removal process and aridity explained a substantial amount of variance in BMP performance in FIB removal. Influent concentration explained a small amount of variability in BMP removal of TP and orthophosphate (PO4). We did not find evidence that any of our chosen variables moderated BMP performance in nitrogen or TSS removal. Through our systematic review, we found inadequate spatial representation of BMP studies to capture the underlying variability in climate, soil, and other conditions that could impact BMP performance.
Climate-smart agriculture reduces capital-based livelihoods vulnerability: evidence from Latin America
Authors: Martinez-Baron Deissy , Alarcón de Antón Marina , Martinez Salgado Jesús David , Castellanos Andrea Estefanía
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Climate change poses a significant threat to rural livelihoods in low- and middle-income countries. Enhancing the sustainability of these livelihoods is crucial for ensuring food security and nutrition at both global and regional levels. This study investigates the role of Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices in improving rural livelihoods in Latin America, specifically through the Climate Smart Village (CSV) approach.

Methods

Our analysis involved a dataset of 267 households, comprising both adopters and non-adopters of CSA practices in CSVs across Guatemala, Honduras, and Colombia. We employed multiple correspondence analysis (MCA), Gower’s metric, agglomerative clustering, partitioning around medoids (PAM), and cluster validation. Our aim was to understand how CSA practices, which include the use of agroclimatic information, soil and water management practices, and risk diversification strategies, contribute to enhancing livelihoods. We examined this in the context of the five capitals (social, natural, physical, financial, and human) of the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF).

Results

Our findings indicate that CSA farmers exhibit lower capital-based vulnerability compared to non-CSA farmers. This is particularly evident in the areas of social capital, as well as human and natural capital for certain CSA adopters. However, the similar performance in financial and physical capital between CSA and non-CSA farmers suggests the need for additional strategies to reduce vulnerability in these areas. We examined this through the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF), which includes five capitals: social, natural, physical, financial and human.

Conclusion

These findings offer a valuable framework for policy and decision-making processes, helping to identify which capitals and dimensions of livelihood vulnerability should be prioritized in different contexts to achieve climate resilience and sustainable development. The study advocates for continued research efforts, incorporating expanded indicators, such as gender indicators within social and human capital definitions, for a more comprehensive assessment of CSA’s impact. The application of SLF for analyzing CSA’s contribution to rural livelihoods represents a novel approach in Latin American studies.
Characterization and valorization of biogas digestate and derived organic fertilizer products from separation processes
Authors: Romio Cristiane , Ward Alastair James , Møller Henrik Bjarne
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Anaerobic digestion of manure, together with other biowastes, produces biogas that can substitute fossil energy and thereby reduce CO2 emissions and post- digestion greenhouse gas emissions. The final digestate of the process is an organic fertilizer rich in plant nutrients and recalcitrant organic constituents. The digestate characteristics and quality depend on several parameters, such as input feedstocks and operational conditions of the biogas plants. In Denmark, the rapid expansion of the biogas sector in recent years has resulted in a great variety of feedstocks used in the plants. The first generation of biogas plants mainly treated manure, industrial wastes, and energy crops with short retention times, while the new generation of biogas plants are co-digesting manure with higher amounts of lignocellulosic feedstocks and operating with longer retention times. This study evaluated whether this shift in feedstock composition could impact the fertilizer quality and post-digestion greenhouse gases and ammonia emissions during storage and application of digestate.

Methods

Digestate samples from 2015 to 2023 were collected and analyzed for composition and residual methane yields. The efficiencies of solid–liquid separation applied to several digestate samples from the new generation of biogas plants were investigated and the nutrients contents of the liquid and solid fractions of digestate were evaluated.

Results and discussion

The most evident change caused by the feedstock transition was an average increase of 52% in the total solids content of digestate, which can negatively impact ammonia emissions during digestate application. In contrast, similar average residual methane yields on a fresh matter basis of approximately 5 L/kg indicated comparable risks of methane emissions during storage. The liquid fraction of industrially separated digestate presented, on average, nutrient concentrations similar to those of unseparated digestate, while the solid fraction presented similar K, lower total ammoniacal nitrogen, and higher organic N and P contents than unseparated digestate on a fresh matter basis. The average residual methane yield of the industrially separated solid fraction of digestate was 101 L/kg volatile solids, while the average calorific value was 21 MJ/kg volatile solids, indicating its potential for additional energy generation.
Case Report: Dislocation of lateral menisci secondary to congenital lateral tibiofemoral cartilage thickening in both knees
Authors: Zhang Xingliang , Li Wentao , Li Zijin , Xie Yibing , Zhu Chenyu , Lei Shaoyang , Zhang Shuqian
Published: July 2024

A 24-year-old male patient complained of mild knee pain after jogging. The subsequent knee MRI demonstrated bilateral lateral thickened tibiofemoral cartilages, evidenced by deformities of the bilateral subchondral bone beneath the lateral femoral condyle cartilage. The corresponding dislocations of almost all the left lateral meniscus and part of the right lateral meniscus to the center of the joint were detected. After excluding diagnoses of congenital ring-shaped meniscus, bucket handle tear of the C-shaped lateral meniscus, and central tear of the discoid meniscus, the displacement of all or part of the lateral meniscus into the intercondylar notch was considered a consequence of congenital thickening of the lateral superior and inferior cartilage. This case may report a new variant of knee joint pathology.
Case report: Management of pregnancy-associated immune thrombocytopenia in a French bulldog with dystocia
Authors: Feldman Rose , Bracker Kiko , Whelan Megan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The objective of this case report is to describe diagnosis and management of life-threatening immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) secondary to pregnancy in a dog with concurrent dystocia.

Case summary

A 1-year 11-month old female intact French bulldog was referred for management of severe thrombocytopenia and spontaneous hemorrhage during whelping. The thrombocytopenia was progressive from approximately 32 days of gestation. In the absence of an identifiable cause for the thrombocytopenia, the patient was treated for ITP with immunosuppressive therapies and blood and plasma transfusions. The patient was also supported through dystocia until the platelet count normalized so a Caesarean section and ovariohysterectomy (OVH) could be performed.

Discussion

This is the first report documenting ITP in a whelping canine. Pregnancy is a known trigger and can affect the clinical course of autoimmune diseases in women, including ITP. It is suspected that this patient’s pregnancy triggered ITP, paralleling what occurs in women.
Time Course of High-Energy Phosphate Depletion During Cold Storage of Human Heart Grafts Using the Celsior Solution
Authors: Kober Frank , Caus Thierry , Riberi Alberto , Le Fur Yann , Bernard Monique
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study was to provide insight into high-energy phosphate compound concentration dynamics under realistic clinical cold-storage conditions using the Celsior solution in seven heart grafts discarded from transplantation. The hearts of seven local donors (three males, four females, age 37 ± 17 years, height 175 ± 5 cm, weight 75 ± 9 kg) initially considered for transplantation and eventually discarded were submitted to a Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy observation in a clinical Magnetic Resonance Imaging scanner over at least 9 h. The grafts remained in their sterile container at 4°C during the entire examination. Hence, Phosphocreatine (PCr), adenosine triphosphate (ATP), inorganic phosphate (Pi) and intracellular pH were recorded non-destructively at a 30-minute interval. With the ischemic time Ti, the concentration ratios decreased at PCr/ATP = 1.68−0.0028·Tis, Pi/ATP = 1.38 + 0.0029·Tis, and intracellular pH at 7.43–0.0012·Tis. ATP concentration remained stable for at least 9 h and did not decrease as long as phosphocreatine was detectable. Acidosis remained moderate. In addition to the standard parameters assessed at the time of retrieval, Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy can provide an assesment of the metabolic status of heart grafts before transplantation. These results show how HEPC metabolites deplete during cold storage. Although many parameters determine graft quality during cold storage, the dynamics of HEPC and intracellular pH may be helpful in the development of strategies aiming at extending the ischemic time.
Study on the Drying Characteristics and Physicochemical Properties of Alfalfa under High-Voltage Discharge Plasma
Authors: Hu Wenhao , Song Zhiqing , Ma Qingjie , Li Bufan , Zhang Mingjie , Ding Changjiang , Chen Hao , Zhao Shenghou
Published: July 2024

High-voltage discharge plasma drying (HVDPD) is a non-thermal and efficient drying technique. In this study, we compared the drying characteristics and physicochemical properties of alfalfa dried via HVDPD, hot-air drying (HAD), and natural air-drying (AD) and analyzed the experimental results using infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, colorimetry, and other detection techniques. The results showed that HVDPD had a higher drying rate than AD and saved more energy than HAD. Alfalfa dried via HVDPD had the most intact internal structure, the highest rehydration ratio (RR), the best color quality, and the best nutrient retention, resulting in the highest relative quality and feeding value. Therefore, HVDPD is an excellent drying technique for alfalfa, providing a new and effective way to improve the storage, transportation, and drying quality of alfalfa.
Effect of Maize Canopy Structure on Light Interception and Radiation Use Efficiency at Different Canopy Layers
Authors: Duan Meng , Zhang Xiaotao , Wei Zheng , Chen Xu , Zhang Baozhong
Published: July 2024

Reasonable dense planting is an important measure to increase crop yield per unit area and save resources. However, there is no unified view of the competition for photosynthetic radiation in different stratification structures of maize plants due to different planting densities, as well as the internal mechanism of yield increase. In order to investigate these issues, field experiments were conducted from 2021 to 2022 in Daxing, Beijing, China (39°37′ N, 116°25′ E, altitude 31.3 m a.s.l.). Field plots were arranged in a randomized block design, with the main plot factor representing plant density. In each replicate, four densities were set, i.e., 33,000 (D1), 42,000 (D2), 55,000 (D3), and 83,000 (D4) plants·ha−1. Canopy stratification structure characteristics, including leaf area index, biomass, and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), were measured in each stratification structure, and transmitted PAR, radiation use efficiency (RUE), and light extinction coefficient (K) were calculated. We found that increasing plant density significantly increased biomass, leaf area index (LAI), and precipitation use efficiency (PUE), but the light extinction coefficient (K) and harvest index (HI) showed opposite trends. Compared to the D1 treatment, the grain yield, precipitation use efficiency (PUE), radiation use efficiency (RUE), and LAI increased by 22.6–88.2%, 9.2–50.5%, 26.7–116.9%, and 27.7 to 150.6% in the D2, D3, and D4 treatments, and K and HI decreased by 19.7–50.3% and 4.2–11.5%, respectively. These showed that a density of 83,000 plants·ha−1 was effective in promoting maize growth in the Daxing area of Beijing, China.
Effects of Conventional and Organic Fertilization on the Chemical Profile of Sorghum bicolor and the Preference of Sugarcane Aphids (Melanaphis sacchari)
Authors: Nieves-Silva Ericka , Sandoval-Castro Engelberto , Castañeda-Antonio Ma. , Delgado-Alvarado Adriana , Huerta-De la Peña Arturo , Ocampo-Fletes Ignacio
Published: July 2024

Melanaphis sacchari is a cosmopolitan pest that causes losses in sorghum crops, so new management methods are needed. In addition, the type of fertilization used influences plant compositions and pest infestation, and allelochemicals are a promising method for the possible management of M. sacchari. In this work, we measured the preference of M. sacchari through chemical stimuli towards sorghum plants grown under greenhouse conditions without fertilization (F0), conventional fertilization (CF), and organic fertilization (OF). Leaves were collected from sorghum plants fertilized with 200 kg N ha−1 using ammonium sulfate and poultry manure. Extracts were obtained using Soxhlet extraction, and the compounds were identified using a gas chromatograph coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Sorghum extracts were individually tested through bioassays to determine M. sacchari preference. The abundance and number of compounds in sorghum differed depending on the type of fertilization used. M. sacchari showed a preference for the extract from CF sorghum plants (76.66%) over the extract from OF plants (23.34%). Therefore, the type of fertilization can be used as a tactic to prevent higher infestations of M. sacchari. The biological activity of the compounds identified here with M. sacchari should be determined for future pest management strategies using allelochemicals, given that the sugarcane aphid uses chemical signals to locate its host plant.
Effects of Ginger Straw Silage with Enzymes on Growth Performance, Digestion and Metabolism, Meat Quality and Rumen Microflora Diversity of Laiwu Black Goat
Authors: Pan Shuyue , Wang Di , Lin Yingting , Cheng Ming , Zhu Fenghua , Guo Yixuan
Published: July 2024

Laiwu black goats comprise an excellent local germplasm resource; however, a shortage of feed resources has led to the application of unconventional feed. Ginger straw feed has good physiological effects, but research on this feed source for ruminant animals is lacking. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of enzymatic silage ginger straw on Laiwu black goat performance. The experiment used an independent sample t-test analysis method; 24 healthy Laiwu black goats with a body weight of 20.05 ± 1.15 kg and age of 5.67 ± 0.25 months were randomly divided into two groups with three replicates (bars) per group and four goats per replicate. The experimental diet was composed of mixed concentrate, silage, and garlic peel at a 2:7:1 ratio. The silage used in the two groups was whole corn silage (CON group) and 60% whole corn silage plus 40% enzymatic silage ginger straw (SG group), and the other components were identical. Daily feed intake/daily gain (F/G) was significantly higher in the SG group than in the CON group (p < 0.05), but there were no significant differences in dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) digestibility between the groups. The shear force, cooking loss, centrifugal loss, and pressure loss of the longissimus dorsi muscle group were significantly lower in the SG than in the CON group (p < 0.05). Compared with those in the CON group, the serum and liver total antioxidant capacity was significantly increased in the SG group, and in the liver, the O2·−, malondialdehyde, and OH· contents were significantly decreased. Collectively, the rumen fluid microbial diversity was changed in the SG group. It was concluded that enzymatic silage ginger straw usage instead of 40% whole silage corn as feed for Laiwu black goats can significantly improve the muscle quality, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal flora, with no adverse effects on production performance. In conclusion, our study provides a basis for ginger straw processing and storage and its rational application in the Laiwu black goat diet.