bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theory of mind deficits in Parkinson’s disease are not modulated by dopaminergic medication
Authors: Usnich Tatiana , Krasivskaya Elena , Klostermann Fabian
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) exhibit deficits in social cognition, particularly with respect to Theory of Mind (ToM) capacities. It is unclear whether they are associated with PD-related dopamine deficiency and modulated by levodopa replacement therapy.

Methods

A total of 15 persons with PD and 13 healthy controls (HC) participated in the study. They performed different neuropsychological tasks, including the Faux Pas Recognition Test (FPRT), assessing different dimensions of cognitive ToM (e.g., detection, inappropriateness, intentions), and the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test (RMET) as an index of affective ToM. Persons with PD were tested twice, once under their regular treatment and another time after at least 18 h of levodopa withdrawal (MED-ON and MED-OFF, respectively). On either occasion, serum drug levels and motor symptom severity [Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS)] were measured.

Results

MED-ON and MED-OFF conditions in patients with PD were confirmed by higher serum drug levels in the former than in the latter state and a corresponding amelioration of the motor deficit. In so doing, no performance difference in any ToM-related task was identified as a function of the levodopa therapy. Generally, patients performed worse than controls in both affective and cognitive ToM tests.

Conclusion

Patients with PD have deficits in cognitive and affective ToM. Dopamine replacement, effective for improving the motor condition, does not appear to counteract these dysfunctions.
Clinical characteristics and prognosis of sudden sensorineural hearing loss in single-sided deafness patients
Authors: Liu Yupeng , Wu Wenjin , Li Shuna , Zhang Qing , He Jingchun , Duan Maoli , Yang Jun
Published: September 2023

Background

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) in patients with single-sided deafness (SSD) is rare. The prognosis of the sole serviceable hearing ear is very important for these patients. However, the clinical characteristics and prognosis of SSNHL in SSD patients are not well-documented.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the clinical features and treatment outcomes of SSNHL in SSD patients.

Methods

Clinical data of 36 SSD patients and 116 non-SSD patients with unilateral SSNHL from January 2013 to December 2022 were retrospectively investigated. The clinical characteristics of the SSD patients were analyzed. All SSD patients were treated with intratympanic steroids plus intravenous steroids. Pure-tone average (PTA) and word recognition score (WRS) before and after treatment were recorded. The hearing recovery of SSNHL in SSD patients in comparison with non-SSD patients was explored. Auditory outcomes in SSD patients with different etiologies were also compared.

Results

Initial hearing threshold showed no significant differences between the SSD group and the non-SSD group (66.41 ± 24.64 dB HL vs. 69.21 ± 31.48 dB HL, p = 0.625). The SSD group had a higher post-treatment hearing threshold (median (interquartile range, IQR) 53.13(36.56) dB HL) than the non-SSD group (median 32.50(47.5) dB HL, p < 0.01). Hearing gains (median 8.75(13.00) dB) and the rate of significant recovery (13.89%) were lower in the SSD group than in the non-SSD group (median 23.75(34.69) dB, 45.69%). The etiology of SSD was classified as SSNHL, special types of infection, chronic otitis media, and unknown causes. SSNHL accounted for the maximum proportion (38.9%) of causes of SSD in the SSD group. Hearing gains were lower in the SSNHL-SSD group than in other causes of the SSD group. A binary logistic regression analysis demonstrated that SSD serves as an indicator of unfavorable hearing recovery outcomes (OR = 5.264, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The prognosis of SSNHL in SSD patients is unsatisfactory. SSNHL accounts for the maximum proportion of causes of SSD in this group of patients. For SSD patients caused by SSNHL, less hearing improvement after treatment was expected when SSNHL occurred in the contralateral ear in comparison with SSD patients with other causes.
The impact of upper motor neuron involvement on clinical features, disease progression and prognosis in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Colombo Eleonora , Gentile Francesco , Maranzano Alessio , Doretti Alberto , Verde Federico , Olivero Marco , Gagliardi Delia , Faré Matteo , Meneri Megi , Poletti Barbara , Maderna Luca , Corti Stefania , Corbo Massimo , Morelli Claudia , Silani Vincenzo , Ticozzi Nicola
Published: September 2023

Objectives

In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) both upper (UMNs) and lower motor neurons (LMNs) are involved in the process of neurodegeneration, accounting for the great disease heterogeneity. We evaluated the associations of the burden of UMN impairment, assessed through the Penn Upper Motor Neuron Score (PUMNS), with demographic and clinical features of ALS patients to define the independent role of UMN involvement in generating disease heterogeneity, predicting disease progression and prognosis.

Methods

We collected the following clinical parameters on a cohort of 875 ALS patients: age and site of onset, survival, MRC scale, lower motor neuron score (LMNS), PUMNS, ALSFRS-R, change in ALSFRS-R over time (DFS), MITOS and King’s staging systems (KSS). Transcranial magnetic stimulation was performed on a subgroup of patients and central motor conduction time (CMCT) and cortical silent period (CSP) were calculated.

Results

We observed that patients with an earlier age at onset and bulbar onset had higher PUMNS values. Higher values were also associated to lower ALSFRS-R and to higher DFS scores, as well as to higher MITOS and KSS, indicating that a greater UMN burden correlates with disease severity. Conversely, we did not appreciate any association between UMN involvement and survival or markers of LMN impairment. Moreover, PUMNS values showed a positive association with CMCT and a negative one with CSP values.

Interpretation

Our results suggest that the burden of UMN pathology, assessed through PUMNS, has an important independent role in defining clinical characteristics, functional disability, disease progression and prognosis in ALS patients. We also support the role of TMS in defining severity of UMN involvement.
Recurrence of solitary fibrous tumor of the pleura with hypoglycemia (Doege–Potter Syndrome): a case report description
Authors: Wang Chuxu , Cao Tingting , Hu Guodong , Min Bo , Hu Haibo , Liu Bing , Wang Yaqin , Zuo Xiaohua
Published: September 2023

Hypoglycemia has multiple causes, but the most common is a complication of insulin treatment. In addition to insulin therapy, tumors such as insulinomas of pancreatic origin and extrapancreatic tumors causing paraneoplastic syndromes should also be considered. Solitary fibrous tumors of the pleura (SFTP) is rare tumor, which when associated with hypoglycemia causes Doege-Potter syndrome. This article reports a case of a 69-year-old man with Doege-Potter syndrome and underwent the first surgical resection for SFTP. However, the tumor recurred 9 years later with hypoglycemic symptoms and implant metastasis. This recurrent tumor originated from the visceral pleura, was more aggressive and invaded the diaphragm and parietal pleura. After the second surgical removal of the tumor, the hypoglycemic symptoms disappeared.
Multimodal imaging study of pancreatic myeloid sarcoma: a case report and literature review
Authors: Hu Xianwen , Li Wenxin , Tang Jinyan , Li Dandan , Wang Pan
Published: September 2023

Myeloid sarcoma (MS) is a rare extramedullary parenchymal tumor composed of immature myeloid cells, occurring mainly in the lymph nodes, skin, soft tissue, testicles, bones, peritoneum, and gastrointestinal tract, and rarely in the pancreas. Herein, we report the case of a 68-year-old female patient who visited our hospital for medical assistance due to acute abdominal pain. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging showed a mass approximately 8 cm in diameter in the pancreatic tail, which was suspected to be a malignant tumor. To further assess the presence of distant metastases, the patient underwent fluorine-18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG PET)/CT, which revealed an increased 18F-FDG uptake in the corresponding lesions. Subsequently, the patient underwent surgical treatment, and postoperative pathology and immunohistochemistry revealed that the mass was MS. Moreover, we reviewed the clinical features, imaging findings, and histopathology of pathologically confirmed pancreatic MS in the published literature.
Cadmium alters whole animal ionome and promotes the re-distribution of iron in intestinal cells of Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Sharma Anuj Kumar , Finney Lydia , Vogt Stefan , Vatamaniuk Olena K. , Kim Sungjin
Published: September 2023

The chronic exposure of humans to the toxic metal cadmium (Cd), either occupational or from food and air, causes various diseases, including neurodegenerative conditions, dysfunction of vital organs, and cancer. While the toxicology of Cd and its effect on the homeostasis of biologically relevant elements is increasingly recognized, the spatial distribution of Cd and other elements in Cd toxicity-caused diseases is still poorly understood. Here, we use Caenorhabditis elegans as a non-mammalian multicellular model system to determine the distribution of Cd at the tissue and cellular resolution and its effect on the internal levels and the distribution of biologically relevant elements. Using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrophotometry (ICP-MS), we show that exposure of worms to Cd not only led to its internal accumulation but also significantly altered the C. elegans ionome. Specifically, Cd treatment was associated with increased levels of toxic elements such as arsenic (As) and rubidium (Rb) and a decreased accumulation of essential elements such as zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), calcium (Ca), cobalt (Co) and, depending on the Cd-concentration used in the assay, iron (Fe). We regarded these changes as an ionomic signature of Cd toxicity in C. elegans. We also show that supplementing nematode growth medium with Zn but not Cu, rescues Cd toxicity and that mutant worms lacking Zn transporters CDF-1 or SUR-7, or both are more sensitive to Cd toxicity. Finally, using synchrotron X-Ray fluorescence Microscopy (XRF), we showed that Cd significantly alters the spatial distribution of mineral elements. The effect of Cd on the distribution of Fe was particularly striking: while Fe was evenly distributed in intestinal cells of worms grown without Cd, in the presence of Cd, Fe, and Cd co-localized in punctum-like structures in the intestinal cells. Together, this study advances our understanding of the effect of Cd on the accumulation and distribution of biologically relevant elements. Considering that C. elegans possesses the principal tissues and cell types as humans, our data may have important implications for future therapeutic developments aiming to alleviate Cd-related pathologies in humans.
Chloroplast genome assembly of Serjania erecta Raldk: comparative analysis reveals gene number variation and selection in protein-coding plastid genes of Sapindaceae
Authors: Corvalán Leonardo C. J. , Sobreiro Mariane B. , Carvalho Larissa R. , Dias Renata O. , Braga-Ferreira Ramilla S. , Targueta Cintia P. , Silva-Neto Carlos M. e , Berton Bianca W. , Pereira Ana Maria S. , Diniz-filho José A. F. , Telles Mariana P. C. , Nunes Rhewter
Published: September 2023

Serjania erectaRaldk is an essential genetic resource due to its anti-inflammatory, gastric protection, and anti-Alzheimer properties. However, the genetic and evolutionary aspects of the species remain poorly known. Here, we sequenced and assembled the complete chloroplast genome ofS. erectaand used it in a comparative analysis within the Sapindaceae family.S. erectahas a chloroplast genome (cpDNA) of 159,297 bp, divided into a Large Single Copy region (LSC) of 84,556 bp and a Small Single Copy region (SSC) of 18,057 bp that are surrounded by two Inverted Repeat regions (IRa and IRb) of 28,342 bp. Among the 12 species used in the comparative analysis,S. erectahas the fewest long and microsatellite repeats. The genome structure of Sapindaceae species is relatively conserved; the number of genes varies from 128 to 132 genes, and this variation is associated with three main factors: (1) Expansion and retraction events in the size of the IRs, resulting in variations in the number ofrpl22,rps19, andrps3genes; (2) Pseudogenization of therps2gene; and (3) Loss or duplication of genes encoding tRNAs, associated with the duplication oftrnH-GUGinX. sorbifoliumand the absence oftrnT-CGUin the Dodonaeoideae subfamily. We identified 10 and 11 mutational hotspots for Sapindaceae and Sapindoideae, respectively, and identified six highly diverse regions (tRNA-Lys — rps16, ndhC – tRNA-Val, petA – psbJ, ndhF, rpl32 – ccsA, andycf1) are found in both groups, which show potential for the development of DNA barcode markers for molecular taxonomic identification ofSerjania. We identified that thepsaIgene evolves under neutrality in Sapindaceae, while all other chloroplast genes are under strong negative selection. However, local positive selection exists in thendhF,rpoC2,ycf1, andycf2genes. The genesndhFandycf1also present high nucleotide diversity and local positive selection, demonstrating significant potential as markers. Our findings include providing the first chloroplast genome of a member of the Paullinieae tribe. Furthermore, we identified patterns in variations in the number of genes and selection in genes possibly associated with the family’s evolutionary history.
Estimating the effects of COVID-19 on essential health services utilization in Uganda and Bangladesh using data from routine health information systems
Authors: Angeles Gustavo , Silverstein Hannah , Ahsan Karar Zunaid , Kibria Mohammad Golam , Rakib Nibras Ar , Escudero Gabriela , Singh Kavita , Mpiima Jamiru , Simmons Elizabeth , Weiss William
Published: September 2023

Background

Since March 2020, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been a major shock to health systems across the world. We examined national usage patterns for selected basic, essential health services, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Uganda and Bangladesh, to determine whether COVID-19 affected reporting of service utilization and the use of health services in each country.

Methods

We used routine health information system data since January 2017 to analyze reporting and service utilization patterns for a variety of health services. Using time series models to replicate pre-COVID-19 trajectories over time we estimated what levels would have been observed if COVID-19 had not occurred during the pandemic months, starting in March 2020. The difference between the observed and predicted levels is the COVID-19 effect on health services.

Results

The time trend models for Uganda and Bangladesh closely replicated the levels and trajectories of service utilization during the 38 months prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our results indicate that COVID-19 had severe effects across all services, particularly during the first months of the pandemic, but COVID-19 impacts on health services and subsequent recovery varied by service type. In general, recovery to expected levels was slow and incomplete across the most affected services.

Conclusion

Our analytical approach based on national information system data could be very useful as a form of surveillance for health services disruptions from any cause leading to rapid responses from health service managers and policymakers.
The white racial frame of public health discourses about racialized health differences and “disparities”: what it reveals about power and how it thwarts health equity
Authors: Bowleg Lisa
Published: September 2023

Although several public health scholars have advocated for more clarity about concepts such as health disparities and health equity, attention to the framing of public health discourses about racialized health differences and “disparities” in the U.S., and what it reveals about power and the potential for achieving health equity, is surprisingly rare. Sociologist Joe Feagin, in his book, The White Racial Frame: Centuries of Racial Framing and Counter-Framing coined the term white racial frame to describe the predominantly white racialized worldview of majority white and white-oriented decisionmakers in everyday and institutional operations. Informed by insights from critical race theories about the white racial frame, white epistemological ignorance, and colorblind racism; critical perspectives on social class; Black feminist perspectives; framing; and critical discourse analysis, in this perspective I discuss: (1) the power of language and discourses; (2) the white racial frame of three common public health discourses — health disparities, “race,” and social determinants of health (SDOH); (3) the costs and consequences of the white racial frame for advancing health equity; and (4) the need for more counter and critical theoretical frames to inform discourses, and in turn research and political advocacy to advance health equity in the U.S.
Establishment of health related physical fitness evaluation system for school adolescents aged 12–16 in Pakistan: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hamdani Syed Muhammad Zeeshan Haider , Zhuang Jie , Hadier Syed Ghufran , Khurram Haris , Hamdani Syed Danish Haider , Danish Shaista Shireen , Fatima Syeda Urooj , Tian Wang
Published: September 2023

Background

The decline in adolescent physical fitness is a significant global public health concern, and Pakistan is no exception. The country’s absence of a health-related physical fitness (HRPF) evaluation system has compounded this issue. To bridge this gap, this study aims to develop a scientifically-based HRPF evaluation system for the adolescent population that meets international standards. The evaluation system identifies at-risk children and improves adolescent health outcomes, including obesity, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal disorders, chronic diseases, and psychological illnesses, through crucial physical fitness evaluation. This study specifically aims to establish an HRPF evaluation system for school adolescents aged 12–16 in Pakistan.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 2,970 school adolescents aged 12–16 years in the South Punjab, Pakistan. The study used a stratified sampling technique to select participants. The HRPF evaluation system included four components: cardiorespiratory endurance, core muscular endurance, muscular strength, and body composition. Data were collected through standardized tests and anthropometric measurements.

Results

The study’s results indicated that the HRPF evaluation scoring system was feasible and valid for evaluating the HRPF of school adolescents in the South Punjab region of Pakistan. The results of the evaluation system categorized participants into five groups based on their performance: excellent (6.2%), good (24.9%), medium (50.7%), poor (17%), and very poor (1.2%).

Conclusion

The study establishes an HRPF evaluation system for Pakistani school adolescents. This system lays the foundation for implementing effective strategies to improve their physical health. The findings offer valuable insights to policymakers, health professionals, and educators, enabling them to promote fitness and devise impactful interventions for enhancing HRPF in this population.
Addressing knowledge gaps: the key role of community health workers and healthcare providers in human papillomavirus prevention and vaccine uptake in a border community
Authors: Moya Eva M. , Garcia Araceli , Joyce Ponder Amy , Frietze Gabriel
Published: September 2023

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection and nearly every person who is sexually active will get HPV at some point in their lifetime without having the HPV vaccine. Healthcare Providers (HCPs) and Community Health Workers (CHWs) play an essential role in promoting the HPV vaccine and providing education about HPV in communities. Three focus groups with CHWs (n = 17) and HCPs (n = 7) were conducted and led by trained facilitators. In addition to participating in the focus group, CHWs and HCPs completed a brief questionnaire. Focus groups were voice recorded and transcribed for qualitative analysis. Independent coders conducted content analysis to identify the salient themes of the focus groups. Several important findings emerged from this study highlighting the barriers to HPV knowledge, gaps in the self-perceived role of HPV cancer prevention, and opportunities to action. Financial, knowledge, patriarchy, behaviors, attitudes, and fears were identified as the perceived patient-related barriers to promoting HPV cancer prevention. Both CHWs and HCPs explained that their female patients are often discouraged by their husbands from seeking out sexual health-related healthcare. Finding suggest the need for community tailored education on HPV and “best practice” trainings for HPV prevention that is applicable to both CHWs and HCPs.
The polyethylene terephthalate water bottles problem in Dubai hotels—Would an initiative solve this problem or does it need a law?
Authors: Al-Shihabi Sameh
Published: September 2023

This paper examines the environmental effects of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) water bottles used by tourists in Dubai. Unfortunately, tourists residing in Dubai hotels must depend on these single-use plastic water bottles that have negative environmental impacts associated with their production and disposal. Thus, the government of Dubai launched an initiative to reduce the usage of PET bottles, and this paper discusses whether this initiative is adequate to change hotels' dependence on PET water bottles. Therefore, this paper tries first to find the reasons that would drive hotels to comply with this initiative and then assesses the compliance of hotels with this initiative 1 year after its launch. It is found that pressures from hotels with the same and higher ratings are crucial drivers for hotels to replace PET bottles with other alternatives. Officials affiliated with the Dubai Can initiative confirmed these findings. They have also anticipated that UAE residents who spend their vacations in Dubai hotels will exert substantial pressure on hotels to abandon PET bottle use. Decision-makers affirmed that a good percentage of five-star hotels, in addition to several four-star hotels, have abolished the use of PET bottles. Moreover, it is anticipated that all hotels are expected to stop using PET bottles. Consequently, this study shows that promoting environmentally responsible behavior without enacting laws is possible.
Simulation of radiation belt wave-particle interactions in an MHD-particle framework
Authors: Chan Anthony A. , Elkington Scot R. , Longley William J. , Aldhurais Suhail A. , Alam Shah S. , Albert Jay M. , Jaynes Allison N. , Malaspina David M. , Ma Qianli , Li Wen
Published: September 2023

In this paper we describe K2, a comprehensive simulation model of Earth’s radiation belts that includes a wide range of relevant physical processes. Global MHD simulations are combined with guiding-center test-particle methods to model interactions with ultra low-frequency (ULF) waves, substorm injections, convective transport, drift-shell splitting, drift-orbit bifurcations, and magnetopause shadowing, all in self-consistent MHD fields. Simulation of local acceleration and pitch-angle scattering due to cyclotron-scale interactions is incorporated by including stochastic differential equation (SDE) methods in the MHD-particle framework. The SDEs are driven by event-specific bounce-averaged energy and pitch-angle diffusion coefficients. We present simulations of electron phase-space densities during a simplified particle acceleration event based on the 17 March 2013 event observed by the Van Allen Probes, with a focus on demonstrating the capabilities of the K2 model. The relative wave-particle effects of global scale ULF waves and very-low frequency (VLF) whistler-mode chorus waves are compared, and we show that the primary acceleration appears to be from the latter. We also show that the enhancement with both ULF and VLF processes included exceeds that of VLF waves alone, indicating a synergistic combination of energization and transport processes may be important.
Breaking Barriers and Bridging Gaps: Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Kidney Transplant Care for Black and Hispanic Patients in the United States
Authors: Zhang Chi , Mathur Amit K.
Published: September 2023

Kidney transplantation offers better mortality and quality of life outcomes to patients with end-stage renal failure compared to dialysis. Specifically, living donor kidney transplantation is the best treatment for end-stage renal disease, since it offers the greatest survival benefit compared to deceased donor kidney transplant or dialysis. However, not all patients from all racial/ethnic backgrounds enjoy these benefits. While black and Hispanic patients bear the predominant disease burden within the United States, they represent less than half of all kidney transplants in the country. Other factors such as cultural barriers that proliferate myths about transplant, financial costs that impede altruistic donation, and even biological predispositions create a complex maze and can also perpetuate care inaccessibility. Therefore, blanket efforts to increase the overall donation pool may not extend access to vulnerable populations, who may require more targeted attention and interventions. This review uses US kidney transplantation data to substantiate accessibility differences amongst racial minorities as well as provides examples of successful institutional and national systemic level changes that have improved transplantation outcomes for all.
Mathematical Foundation of a Functional Implementation of the CNF Algorithm
Authors: García-Olmedo Francisco Miguel , García-Miranda Jesús , González-Rodelas Pedro
Published: September 2023

The conjunctive normal form (CNF) algorithm is one of the best known and most widely used algorithms in classical logic and its applications. In its algebraic approach, it makes use in a loop of a certain well-defined operation related to the “distributivity” of logical disjunction versus conjunction. For those types of implementations, the loop iteration runs a comparison between formulas to decide when to stop. In this article, we explain how to pre-calculate the exact number of loop iterations, thus avoiding the work involved in the above-mentioned comparison. After that, it is possible to concatenate another loop focused now on the “associativity” of conjunction and disjunction. Also for that loop, we explain how to calculate the optimal number of rounds, so that the decisional comparison phase for stopping can be also avoided.
Numerical Simulation of Chemical Propulsion Systems: Survey and Fundamental Mathematical Modeling Approach
Authors: Cha Jihyoung
Published: September 2023

This study deals with the mathematical modeling and numerical simulation of chemical propulsion systems (CPSs). For this, we investigate and summarize a comprehensive collection of the simulation modeling developments of CPSs in academic works, applications, and industrial fields. Then, we organize and analyze the simulation modeling approaches in several ways. After that, we organize differential-algebraic Equations (DAEs) for fundamental mathematical modeling consisting of the governing Equations (ordinary differential equations, ODEs) for the components and other equations derived from several physical rules or characteristics (algebraic equations or phenomenological equations, AEs) and then synthesize and summarize the fundamental structures of analytic mathematical modeling by types (liquid-propellant rocket engines, solid-propellant rocket motors, and hybrid-propellant rocket motors) of CPSs.
Plant Growth Stimulatory Effect of Terrein and Its Mechanism of Action in Crops under Drought Stress
Authors: Lei Lijing , Shao Hua
Published: September 2023

Drought is one of the most important factors that limit crop yield. In this study, the growth promotive activity of terrein, a microbial metabolite, on four selected agricultural plants (Vigna radiata, Brassica chinensis, Triticum aestivum and Sorghum bicolor) under drought conditions was assessed via pot experiment. Terrein effectively stimulated the seedling growth of tested species and increased their fresh and dry weight at low concentrations (2 and 10 μg/mL), either applied as a seed soaking agent or a spray solution, especially on root growth. The maximum stimulatory effect on root growth was observed on B. chinensis seedlings (99.20%), on fresh weight was found on T. aestivum seedlings (97.23%), and on dry weight was discovered on V. radiata seedlings (58.33%), implying that this stimulatory effect was species-specific. Further study revealed that the application of terrein significantly raised the contents of GA3, IAA and CTK; meanwhile, MDA content declined significantly, whereas the activity of POD, CAT and SOD was boosted significantly, suggesting that terrein can stimulate plant growth by reducing the production of ROS. Our work is the first study focusing on terrein’s plant growth promotive activity, indicating terrein has the potential to be further explored as an environment-friendly growth regulator.
Modeling and Optimizing the Performance of Green Forage Maize Harvester Header Using a Combined Response Surface Methodology–Artificial Neural Network Approach
Authors: Xue Zhao , Fu Jun , Fu Qiankun , Li Xiaokang , Chen Zhi
Published: September 2023

Green forage maize harvesters face challenges such as high soil humidity and soft soil in the field, mismatched working parameters, and poor reliability and adaptability. These challenges often result in header blockage, significant harvest loss, and increased energy consumption. Traditional testing and statistical analysis methods used in most existing studies are limited by complex test processes, their time-consuming nature, high costs, and poor prediction accuracy. To address these problems, a test bench was constructed to analyze the effects of forward speed, cutting height, number of rows, and their interactions on specific energy consumption and harvest loss of the green forage maize (GFM) header. A combined response surface method (RSM)–artificial neural network (ANN) approach is proposed for modeling and predicting the performance parameters of the header. The optimal conditions were determined by optimizing the specific energy consumption and loss rate. The optimal combination parameters are a forward speed of 1.6 km/h, a cutting height of 167 mm, and a number of rows of 4. However, RSM–ANN has larger R2 values and lower root mean square errors (RMSE) and mean square errors (MSE) compared to RSM. Specifically, the R2 of the RSM–ANN model for specific energy consumption and loss rate a 0.9925 and 0.9906, MSE are 0.00001775 and 0.004558, and RMSE are 0.004214 and 0.006752, respectively. The results show that the combined RSM–ANN method has higher precision and accuracy and can better predict and optimize the header performance. This study overcomes the limitations of traditional methods and has the potential to provide data and method references for the design, optimization, prediction, and intelligent diagnosis of faults in the operational parameters of agricultural machinery.
Mitigating Salinity Stress and Improving Cotton Productivity with Agronomic Practices
Authors: Zhang Dongmei , Zhang Yanjun , Sun Lin , Dai Jianlong , Dong Hezhong
Published: September 2023

In saline and salinity-affected soils, the global productivity and sustainability of cotton are severely affected by soil salinity. High salt concentrations hinder plant growth and yield formation mainly through the occurrence of osmotic stress, specific ion toxicity, and nutritional imbalance in cotton. A number of agronomic practices have been identified as potential solutions to alleviate the adverse effects induced by salinity. While genetic breeding holds promise in enhancing the salinity tolerance of cotton, agronomic practices that improve the root zone environment, ameliorate soil conditions, and enhance salinity tolerance are currently considered to be more practical. This compressive review highlights the effectiveness of agronomic practices, such as furrow seeding, plastic mulching, their combination, densely planting, and the appropriate application of fertilizer and plant growth regulators, in mitigating the negative impact of salinity on cotton. By implementing these agronomic practices, cotton growers can improve the overall performance and resilience of cotton crops in saline and salinity-affected soils. This review provides valuable insights into practical agronomic measures that can be adopted to counteract the adverse consequences of soil salinity on cotton cultivation.
A General Machine Learning Model for Assessing Fruit Quality Using Deep Image Features
Authors: Apostolopoulos Ioannis D. , Tzani Mpesi , Aznaouridis Sokratis I.
Published: September 2023

Fruit quality is a critical factor in the produce industry, affecting producers, distributors, consumers, and the economy. High-quality fruits are more appealing, nutritious, and safe, boosting consumer satisfaction and revenue for producers. Artificial intelligence can aid in assessing the quality of fruit using images. This paper presents a general machine learning model for assessing fruit quality using deep image features. This model leverages the learning capabilities of the recent successful networks for image classification called vision transformers (ViT). The ViT model is built and trained with a combination of various fruit datasets and taught to distinguish between good and rotten fruit images based on their visual appearance and not predefined quality attributes. The general model demonstrated impressive results in accurately identifying the quality of various fruits, such as apples (with a 99.50% accuracy), cucumbers (99%), grapes (100%), kakis (99.50%), oranges (99.50%), papayas (98%), peaches (98%), tomatoes (99.50%), and watermelons (98%). However, it showed slightly lower performance in identifying guavas (97%), lemons (97%), limes (97.50%), mangoes (97.50%), pears (97%), and pomegranates (97%).
Heat Stress Mitigation Strategies in Feedyards: Use, Perceptions, and Experiences of Industry Stakeholders
Authors: Dean Lauren , Tarpoff Anthony J. , Nickles Kirsten , Place Sara , Edwards-Callaway Lily
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to: (1) understand heat mitigation strategies currently used and recommended by feedyard operators, veterinarians, and nutritionists, (2) understand their perceptions of heat mitigation strategies related to cattle health, performance, welfare, and carcass quality, (3) quantify the frequency of extreme heat events, and (4) understand industry needs associated with heat stress mitigation strategies. An online survey was shared via 11 industry association listservs. Descriptive statistics were performed on 56 responses (n = 22 operators, 26 veterinarians and eight nutritionists). Thematic analysis was performed on free-response questions. Sixteen (72.7%) operators, 23 (88.5%) veterinarians and eight (100%) nutritionists utilized at least one heat mitigation strategy. “Changing processing and shipping hours” (n = 42, 75%) had the most “strongly agree” responses when asked about strategy effectiveness. The majority of respondents agreed that heat stress negatively impacts cattle health, performance, and welfare (Mean ± SD; ≥7.8 ± 2.6 for all roles). Forty-two (75%) respondents experienced cattle death loss from extreme heat events. Thematic analysis indicated that respondents perceived pen infrastructure and water/feed management as important considerations for better mitigating heat stress impacts. When asked what resources would be helpful, respondents indicated research and data regarding the effectiveness of various strategies.
Integrated Analysis of the Effects of Cecal Microbiota and Serum Metabolome on Market Weights of Chinese Native Chickens
Authors: Yang Shenghong , Yang Yongxian , Long Xiaoxia , Li Hui , Zhang Fuping , Wang Zhong
Published: September 2023

The gut microbiota plays an important role in the physiological activities of the host and affects the formation of important economic traits in livestock farming. The effects of cecal microbiota on chicken weights were investigated using the Guizhou yellow chicken as a model. Experimental cohorts from chickens with high- (HC, n = 16) and low-market-weights (LC, n = 16) were collected. Microbial 16S rRNA gene sequencing and non-targeted serum metabolome data were integrated to explore the effect and metabolic mechanism of cecal microbiota on market weight. The genera Lachnoclostridium, Alistipes, Negativibacillus, Sellimonas, and Ruminococcus torques were enriched in the HC group, while Phascolarctobacterium was enriched in the LC group (p < 0.05). Metabolomic analysis determined that pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), luvangetin (2H-1-benzopyran-6-acrylic acid), and menadione (vitamin K3) were significantly higher in HC serum, while beclomethasone dipropionate (a glucocorticoid) and chlorophene (2-benzyl-4-chlorophenol) were present at higher levels in the LC group. The microbes enriched in HC were significantly positively correlated with metabolites, including pantothenic acid and menadione, and negatively correlated with beclomethasone dipropionate and chlorophene. These results indicated that specific cecal bacteria in Guizhou yellow chickens alter the host metabolism and growth performance. This study provides a reference for revealing the mechanism of cecal microbe actions that affect chicken body weight.
Effects of Artificial Light at Night on Fitness-Related Traits of Sea Urchin (Heliocidaris crassispina)
Authors: Xu Xiuwen , Wang Zexianghua , Jin Xiuqi , Ding Keying , Yang Jingwen , Wang Tianming
Published: September 2023

Limited data are available regarding the effects of elevated coastal artificial light at night (ALAN) on intertidal echinoderms. In this study, we investigated the behavioral, morphological, and physiological responses of the sea urchin (Heliocidaris crassispina) after continuous exposure to ALAN at light intensities of 0.1, 300, and 600 Lux for 6 weeks. Our findings revealed that ALAN at 300 Lux substantially reduced food consumption, Lantern weight, and gonadosomatic index (GSI). On the other hand, ALAN at 600 Lux notably prolonged the righting and covering response times and elevated the 5-HIAA/5-HT ratio, while concurrently decreasing food consumption, body weight, Lantern weight, GSI, and Pax6 gene expression. These results indicated that continuous exposure to ALAN could cause an adverse effect on fitness-related traits, including behavioral responses, growth, reproductive performance, and photoreception of sea urchins. The present study provides new insights on the impact of light pollution on echinoderms.
Body Weight Loss Efficiency in Overweight and Obese Adults in the Ketogenic Reduction Diet Program—Case Study
Authors: Markovikj Gordana , Knights Vesna , Gajdoš Kljusurić Jasenka
Published: September 2023

Obesity stands out as an ongoing pandemic today, and it is crucial to recognize the basic factors that influence it in the observed group and to intervene through lifestyle changes. Therefore, in this work, the k ketogenic diet (E = 6280 ± 210 kJ) was used in a weight loss program for two regionally different groups (including 200 participants) from southeastern European countries (Republic of North Macedonia (n = 100) and Kosovo (n = 100)). The applied data analysis revealed similarities and differences in (ii) the consumption of certain food groups (e.g., 0.5–1 kg Nuts/week; in region 1 is consumed by 11.3% of participants while in region 2 by 37.8%, respectively) and (ii) anthropometric indicators of excess body mass (body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio). Nutritional intervention with a ketogenic diet also reduces the intake of sweet and salty snacks that are rich in carbohydrates. The average expected time to reach the target body mass was 112 days, and the results of the progress of all participants were presented after 120 days. The results show regional differences, especially in women; in group 1, 73.91% achieved a body mass index in the healthy range (<25 kg/m2), while in group 2, the success rate was 81.69%. Understanding the different eating habits in the mentioned regions is key here, and it was shown that in region 2, over 40% of the participants consume 500–1000 g of seeds per week. The above indicates that the results of this study and regional differences can be considered when designing strategies and intervention programs in the lifestyle of overweight and obese people in similar environments. The study also shows that the ketogenic diet is one of the useful dietary intervention approaches used to change eating habits that will show results relatively quickly.
Dynamic Reliability Assessment Method for a Pantograph System Based on a Multistate T-S Fault Tree, Dynamic Bayesian
Authors: Chen Yafeng , Wen Jing , Tian Yingjie , Zheng Shubin , Zhong Qianwen , Chai Xiaodong
Published: September 2023

The operational reliability of rail vehicle pantograph systems is evaluated by transforming T-S multistate fault trees into dynamic Bayesian networks (DBNs), which take into account system multistability, long-lasting operation, dynamic failure, and maintenance recovery. The T-S multistate fault tree structure is constructed by the content validity ratio and content validity index; the T-S gate rule expressing causal uncertainty is constructed by using fuzzy theory and dependent uncertain ordered weighted averaging expert scoring, and finally, the pantograph T-S multistate fault tree is transformed into a DBN model characterizing the dynamic interaction and time dependence of the system. The dynamic evolution laws of reliability of a pantograph system in maintenance and maintenance-free states over time are inferred, compared and analyzed. The results show that the system availability of a pantograph system decreases continuously during 720 days of operation. The system availability without maintenance decreases to 0.881, and the system availability with maintenance is 0.952. The reliability of a pantograph system can be effectively ensured with maintenance during the operation period; the sensitivity analysis is performed by changing the failure rate of the equipment to 120% or 80%; the fall indicator, the electrical control box, and the elevating bow motor are the weak links in the system, and the impact of fault escalation on the reliability of a pantograph system is analyzed. It is then verified that the system reliability can be further improved by using a preventive maintenance strategy, and the steady-state reliability can be gradually reached, which is about 0.9968, providing a reference for the maintenance of a pantograph system.
Rapid Deployment Method for Multi-Scene UAV Base Stations for Disaster Emergency Communications
Authors: Gao Rui , Wang Xiao
Published: September 2023

The collaborative deployment of multiple UAVs is a crucial issue in UAV-supported disaster emergency communication networks, as utilizing these UAVs as air base stations can greatly assist in restoring communication networks within disaster-stricken areas. In this paper, the problem of rapid deployment of randomly distributed UAVs in disaster scenarios is studied, and a distributed rapid deployment method for UAVs´ emergency communication network is proposed; this method can cover all target deployment points while maintaining connectivity and provide maximum area coverage for the emergency communication network. To reduce the deployment complexity, we decoupled the three-dimensional UAV deployment problem into two dimensions: vertical and horizontal. For this small-area deployment scenario, a small area UAVs deployment improved-Broyden–Fletcher–Goldfarb–Shanno (SAIBFGS) algorithm is proposed via improving the Iterative step size and search direction to solve the high computational complexity of the traditional Broyden–Fletcher–Goldfarb–Shanno (BFGS) algorithm. In a large area deployment scenario, aiming at the problem of the premature convergence of the standard genetic algorithm (SGA), the large-area UAVs deployment elitist strategy genetic algorithm (LAESGA) is proposed through the improvement of selection, crossover, and mutation operations. The adaptation function of connectivity and coverage is solved by using SAIBFGS and LAESGA, respectively, in the horizontal dimension to obtain the optimal UAV two-dimensional deployment coordinates. Then, the transmitting power and height of the UAV base station are dynamically adjusted according to the channel characteristics and the discrete coefficients of the ground users to be rescued in different environments, which effectively improves the power consumption efficiency of the UAV base station and increases the usage time of the UAV base station, realizing the energy-saving deployment of the UAV base station. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified via data transmission rate simulation results in different environments.
Study on the Characteristics of Effective Internal Friction Angles of Silty Clay from the Yellow River Delta and the Inverse Method of CPTu Testing
Authors: Qi Huazhong , Wang Han , Yan Chao , Zhan Yuanzhe , Qiang Keliang
Published: September 2023

This study focuses on the silty clay of the Yellow River Delta, conducting laboratory experiments to explore the strength characteristics of typical silty clay in the Yellow River Delta. The study utilizes CPTu calibration chamber tests to systematically reveal the features of cone tip resistance (qt), side friction resistance (fs), and pore water pressure (u2) of the silty clay. This research provides a theoretical basis for Delta investigation in the Yellow River region. The study compares the applicability of existing CPTu inversion methods and highlights the NTH method’s advantages in evaluating silty clay’s effective internal friction angle. Supported by indoor calibration chamber tests, the study confirms the reliability of the NTH method in estimating the effective internal friction angle under normally consolidated conditions while also identifying its limitations. These research findings offer data support for the in situ rapid and accurate estimation of design parameters, like the internal friction angle and undrained shear strength of the silty clay in the Yellow River Delta. Moreover, they provide insights for obtaining other crucial in situ data.
Development and Quality Attributes of Paste Sausage Supplemented with Common Squid (Todarodes pacificus) Tailored for the Elderly
Authors: Kang Sang-In , Kim Jin-Soo , Park Sun-Young , Cho Hye-Jeong , Jang Mi-Soon , Oh Jae-Young , Choi Jae-Suk
Published: September 2023

Modern consumers, especially the elderly, have a keen interest in healthy food choices. This study was conducted with the objective of developing squid paste sausages that are easily consumable by elderly individuals while also fulfilling their nutritional requirements. Response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to determine the ideal proportions for mixing raw common squid (RCS; 2.9–56.6%, A), isolated soy protein paste (ISPP; 0.3–37.8%, B), and surimi paste (SP; 25.5–64.7%, C) in order to create a common squid paste sausage prototype (CSPSP). The CSPSP underwent a comprehensive evaluation, encompassing its physicochemical, nutritional, and microbiological attributes, as well as consumer preferences, and was compared to Republic of Korea’s standards for senior-friendly foods. The optimal mixing ratios derived through RSM were as follows: RCSF, 38.7%; ISPP, 21.2%; and SP, 40.1%. Consequently, the hardness of CSPSP (CSPSP-A) prepared with these ratios was measured at 27.8 × 1000 N/m2, a remarkable 95.0% reduction compared to CSPSP-N. Moreover, the texture preference for CSPSP-A was rated at 8.5, signifying the highest level of preference. As a result, CSPSP-A earned a second-grade rating, indicating its suitability for safe consumption by elderly individuals with chewing disorders.