bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analyses of Daily Market Impact Using Execution and Order Book Information
Authors: Yamada Kenta , Mizuno Takayuki
Published: November 2020

We analyzed the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE) for a 29-month period from August 2014 to December 2016, including every transaction and order book snapshot, and confirmed through a simple statistical test that the market impact depends on each stock. Based on a correlation analysis, we found that the market impact slowly changes over time. From an order book analysis, negative correlations were found between the market impact and the averaged limit order volumes in the order book. We also clarified that one of the factors of market impact is the volume of limit orders in the order book.
Prediction of Cardiac Mechanical Performance From Electrical Features During Ventricular Tachyarrhythmia Simulation Using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Jeong Da Un , Lim Ki Moo
Published: November 2020

In ventricular tachyarrhythmia, electrical instability features including action potential duration, dominant frequency, phase singularity, and filaments are associated with mechanical contractility. However, there are insufficient studies on estimated mechanical contractility based on electrical features during ventricular tachyarrhythmia using a stochastic model. In this study, we predicted cardiac mechanical performance from features of electrical instability during ventricular tachyarrhythmia simulation using machine learning algorithms, including support vector regression (SVR) and artificial neural network (ANN) models. We performed an electromechanical tachyarrhythmia simulation and extracted 12 electrical instability features and two mechanical properties, including stroke volume and the amplitude of myocardial tension (ampTens). We compared predictive performance according to kernel types of the SVR model and the number of hidden layers of the ANN model. In the SVR model, the prediction accuracies of stroke volume and ampTens were the highest when using the polynomial kernel and linear kernel, respectively. The predictive performance of the ANN model was better than that of the SVR model. The prediction accuracies were the highest when the ANN model consisted of three hidden layers. Accordingly, we propose the ANN model with three hidden layers as an optimal model for predicting cardiac mechanical contractility in ventricular tachyarrhythmia. The results of this study are expected to be used to indirectly estimate the hemodynamic response from the electrical cardiac map measured by the optical mapping system during cardiac surgery, as well as cardiac contractility under normal sinus rhythm conditions.
Non-verbal Enrichment in Vocabulary Learning With a Virtual Pedagogical Agent
Authors: Rosenthal-von der Pütten Astrid M. , Bergmann Kirsten
Published: November 2020

Non-verbal enrichment in the form of pictures or gesture can support word learning in first and foreign languages. The present study seeks to compare the effects of viewing pictures vs. imitating iconic gestures on learning second language (L2) vocabulary. In our study participants learned L2 words (nouns, verbs, and adjectives) together with a virtual, pedagogical agent. The to-be-learned items were either (i) enriched with pictures, or (ii) with gestures that had to be imitated, or (iii) without any non-verbal enrichment as control. Results showed that gesture imitation was particularly supportive for learning nouns, whereas pictures showed to be most beneficial for memorizing verbs. These findings, suggesting that the type of vocabulary learning strategy has to match with the type of linguistic material to be learned, have important educational implications for L2 classrooms and technology-enhanced tutoring systems.
The Negative Effect of Ability-Focused Praise on the “Praiser’s” Intrinsic Motivation: Face-to-Face Interaction
Authors: Kakinuma Kyosuke , Nishiguti Fumika , Sonoda Kotoe , Tajiri Haruhi , Tanaka Ayumi
Published: November 2020

Most previous research has demonstrated that receiving ability-focused praise (e.g., “You are smart”) negatively affects intrinsic motivation following failure. Surprisingly, a recent study showed that ability-focused praise affects not only the praisee but also the person offering praise, that is, the praiser. However, evidence of the effects on the praiser is quite limited, despite the utility of praise in education. Therefore, the present study employed face-to-face interaction to advance the knowledge of the effects of praise on the praiser. Two experiments were conducted in which undergraduate participants (n = 39 and n = 51) praised a research confederate. We measured attentional engagement using an eye-tracker as a behavioral indicator of intrinsic motivation, as well as self-reported task enjoyment. To estimate the effect of praise, we combined the results of two experiments and conducted a Bayes factor meta-analysis. The results showed that in the ability praise group, participants’ attentional engagement in a task was significantly lower than in the control group. The present finding indicates that ability-focused praise negatively affects the praiser’s intrinsic motivation and suggests that praise should be used with caution in social and educational contexts.
The Importance of Prior Sensitivity Analysis in Bayesian Statistics: Demonstrations Using an Interactive Shiny App
Authors: Depaoli Sarah , Winter Sonja D. , Visser Marieke
Published: November 2020

The current paper highlights a new, interactive Shiny App that can be used to aid in understanding and teaching the important task of conducting a prior sensitivity analysis when implementing Bayesian estimation methods. In this paper, we discuss the importance of examining prior distributions through a sensitivity analysis. We argue that conducting a prior sensitivity analysis is equally important when so-called diffuse priors are implemented as it is with subjective priors. As a proof of concept, we conducted a small simulation study, which illustrates the impact of priors on final model estimates. The findings from the simulation study highlight the importance of conducting a sensitivity analysis of priors. This concept is further extended through an interactive Shiny App that we developed. The Shiny App allows users to explore the impact of various forms of priors using empirical data. We introduce this Shiny App and thoroughly detail an example using a simple multiple regression model that users at all levels can understand. In this paper, we highlight how to determine the different settings for a prior sensitivity analysis, how to visually and statistically compare results obtained in the sensitivity analysis, and how to display findings and write up disparate results obtained across the sensitivity analysis. The goal is that novice users can follow the process outlined here and work within the interactive Shiny App to gain a deeper understanding of the role of prior distributions and the importance of a sensitivity analysis when implementing Bayesian methods. The intended audience is broad (e.g., undergraduate or graduate students, faculty, and other researchers) and can include those with limited exposure to Bayesian methods or the specific model presented here.
Gambling Dual Disorder: A Dual Disorder and Clinical Neuroscience Perspective
Authors: Szerman Nestor , Ferre Francisco , Basurte-Villamor Ignacio , Vega Pablo , Mesias Beatriz , Marín-Navarrete Rodrigo , Arango Celso
Published: November 2020

Several behaviors, including compulsive gambling, have been considered non-substance-related addictive disorders. Categorical mental disorders (e.g., DSM-5) are usually accompanied by very different symptomatic expressions (affective, behavioral, cognitive, substance abuse, personality traits). When these mental disorders occur with addictive disorders, either concomitantly or sequentially over the life span, this clinical condition is called a dual disorder. Gambling disorder (GD) has been associated with other categorical psychiatric diagnoses: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, schizophrenia, substance use disorder, antisocial personality disorder; and dimensional symptoms including higher impulsivity, poorer emotional wellbeing, cognitive distortion, psychosis, deficient self-regulation, suicide, poorer family environment, and greater mental distress. We are calling this clinical condition Gambling Dual Disorder. From a clinical perspective, it is clear that Gambling Dual Disorder is not the exception but rather the expectation, and this holds true not just for GD, but also for other mental disorders including other addictions. Mental disorders are viewed as biological disorders that involve brain circuits that implicate specific domains of cognition, emotion, and behavior. This narrative review presents the state of the art with respect to GD in order to address current matters from a dual disorder, precision psychiatry, and clinical neuroscience perspective, rather than the more subjective approach of symptomatology and clinical presentation. This review also presents Gambling Dual Disorder as a brain and neurodevelopmental disorder, including from the perspectives of evolutionary psychiatry, genetics, impulsivity as an endophenotype, the self-medication hypothesis, and sexual biological differences. The wide vision of the disease advances a paradigm shift, highlighting how GD and dual disorders should be conceptualized, diagnosed, and treated. Rethinking GD as part of a dual disorder is crucial for its appropriate conceptualization from the perspective of clinical neuroscience and precision psychiatry.
Comparison of Psychosocial Distress in Areas With Different COVID-19 Prevalence in Korea
Authors: Kim Mina , Park In-Hoo , Kang Young-Shin , Kim Honey , Jhon Min , Kim Ju-Wan , Ryu Seunghyong , Lee Ju-Yeon , Kim Jae-Min , Lee Jonghun , Kim Sung-Wan
Published: November 2020

Objectives: This study aimed to compare psychosocial distress in areas in Korea with different prevalence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) after validating a questionnaire on psychological experiences and stress associated with the disease outbreak.

Methods: Using an online-based survey, psychosocial distress associated with COVID-19 was investigated in three regions, which were selected according to their prevalence of COVID-19. A total of 1,500 people from an online public panel in the three regions participated in the study. The questionnaire included sociodemographic information, psychosocial experience and stress related to COVID-19, and the perceived stress scale (PSS), patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and generalized anxiety disorder-7 (GAD-7). Those questionnaires and scales were compared by level of prevalence of COVID-19 after validating the questionnaire on psychosocial distress associated with COVID-19.

Results: The 19 items on psychosocial experience associated with COVID-19 comprised 5 subscales, with favorable Cronbach's α ranging from 0.69 to 0.88. Six stress items related to COVID-19 had a Cronbach's α of 0.79. Disturbance in eating and sleeping, difficulty with outside activities, stress from COVID-19, and PSS scores were greater in the areas where COVID-19 was highly prevalent. Economic problems, daily activity changes, and anger toward society were higher in the higher-prevalence regions.

Discussion: Psychosocial distress associated with COVID-19 was closely related to the prevalence of the disease in the areas where participants lived. Psychosocial interventions for distress associated with COVID-19 should be developed and prepared for people during this lengthy pandemic.
An Integrated Approach to Improve Maternal Mental Health and Well-Being During the COVID-19 Crisis
Authors: Shidhaye Rahul , Madhivanan Purnima , Shidhaye Pallavi , Krupp Karl
Published: November 2020

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has led to disruption of normal life across the globe, severely affecting the already vulnerable populations such as the pregnant women. Maternal mental health and well-being is a public health priority and the evidence about the impact of COVID-19 on mental health status of pregnant women is gradually emerging. The findings of the recently published studies suggest that increased risk perception about contracting COVID-19, reduced social support, increase in domestic violence, disruption of antenatal care, and economic consequences of COVID-19 mitigation strategies can lead to adverse mental health outcomes in antenatal period. There is a significant increase in antenatal depression and anxiety since the onset of COVID-19 and social determinants of health (e.g., younger age, lower education, lower income) are associated with these poor outcomes. In this paper, we propose an integrated approach to improve the mental health and well-being of pregnant women. Physical activity and/or mind-body interventions like yoga can be practiced as self-care interventions by pregnant women. Despite social distancing being the current norm, efforts should be made to strengthen social support. Evidence-based interventions for perinatal depression should be integrated within the health system and stepped, collaborative care using non-specialist health workers as key human resource be utilized to improve access to mental health services. Use of digital platforms and smartphone enabled delivery of services has huge potential to further improve the access to care. Most importantly, the COVID-19 related policy guidelines should categorically include maternal mental health and well-being as a priority area.
Prediction of COVID-19 Patients at High Risk of Progression to Severe Disease
Authors: Dai Zhenyu , Zeng Dong , Cui Dawei , Wang Dawei , Feng Yanling , Shi Yuhan , Zhao Liangping , Xu Jingjing , Guo Wenjuan , Yang Yuexiang , Zhao Xinguo , Li Duoduo , Zheng Ye , Wang Ao , Wu Minmin , Song Shu , Lu Hongzhou
Published: November 2020

In order to develop a novel scoring model for the prediction of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) patients at high risk of severe disease, we retrospectively studied 419 patients from five hospitals in Shanghai, Hubei, and Jiangsu Provinces from January 22 to March 30, 2020. Multivariate Cox regression and orthogonal projections to latent structures discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) were both used to identify high-risk factors for disease severity in COVID-19 patients. The prediction model was developed based on four high-risk factors. Multivariate analysis showed that comorbidity [hazard ratio (HR) 3.17, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.96–5.11], albumin (ALB) level (HR 3.67, 95% CI 1.91–7.02), C-reactive protein (CRP) level (HR 3.16, 95% CI 1.68–5.96), and age ≥60 years (HR 2.31, 95% CI 1.43–3.73) were independent risk factors for disease severity in COVID-19 patients. OPLS-DA identified that the top five influencing parameters for COVID-19 severity were CRP, ALB, age ≥60 years, comorbidity, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level. When incorporating the above four factors, the nomogram had a good concordance index of 0.86 (95% CI 0.83–0.89) and had an optimal agreement between the predictive nomogram and the actual observation with a slope of 0.95 (R2 = 0.89) in the 7-day prediction and 0.96 (R2 = 0.92) in the 14-day prediction after 1,000 bootstrap sampling. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the COVID-19-American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC) model was 0.85 (95% CI 0.81–0.90). According to the probability of severity, the model divided the patients into three groups: low risk, intermediate risk, and high risk. The COVID-19-AACC model is an effective method for clinicians to screen patients at high risk of severe disease.
Risk and Protective Factors in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Rapid Evidence Map
Authors: Elmore Rebecca , Schmidt Lena , Lam Juleen , Howard Brian E. , Tandon Arpit , Norman Christopher , Phillips Jason , Shah Mihir , Patel Shyam , Albert Tyler , Taxman Debra J. , Shah Ruchir R.
Published: November 2020

Background: Given the worldwide spread of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), there is an urgent need to identify risk and protective factors and expose areas of insufficient understanding. Emerging tools, such as the Rapid Evidence Map (rEM), are being developed to systematically characterize large collections of scientific literature. We sought to generate an rEM of risk and protective factors to comprehensively inform areas that impact COVID-19 outcomes for different sub-populations in order to better protect the public.

Methods: We developed a protocol that includes a study goal, study questions, a PECO statement, and a process for screening literature by combining semi-automated machine learning with the expertise of our review team. We applied this protocol to reports within the COVID-19 Open Research Dataset (CORD-19) that were published in early 2020. SWIFT-Active Screener was used to prioritize records according to pre-defined inclusion criteria. Relevant studies were categorized by risk and protective status; susceptibility category (Behavioral, Physiological, Demographic, and Environmental); and affected sub-populations. Using tagged studies, we created an rEM for COVID-19 susceptibility that reveals: (1) current lines of evidence; (2) knowledge gaps; and (3) areas that may benefit from systematic review.

Results: We imported 4,330 titles and abstracts from CORD-19. After screening 3,521 of these to achieve 99% estimated recall, 217 relevant studies were identified. Most included studies concerned the impact of underlying comorbidities (Physiological); age and gender (Demographic); and social factors (Environmental) on COVID-19 outcomes. Among the relevant studies, older males with comorbidities were commonly reported to have the poorest outcomes. We noted a paucity of COVID-19 studies among children and susceptible sub-groups, including pregnant women, racial minorities, refugees/migrants, and healthcare workers, with few studies examining protective factors.

Conclusion: Using rEM analysis, we synthesized the recent body of evidence related to COVID-19 risk and protective factors. The results provide a comprehensive tool for rapidly elucidating COVID-19 susceptibility patterns and identifying resource-rich/resource-poor areas of research that may benefit from future investigation as the pandemic evolves.
Population-Based Screening for Endometrial Cancer: Human vs. Machine Intelligence
Authors: Hart Gregory R. , Yan Vanessa , Huang Gloria S. , Liang Ying , Nartowt Bradley J. , Muhammad Wazir , Deng Jun
Published: November 2020

Incidence and mortality rates of endometrial cancer are increasing, leading to increased interest in endometrial cancer risk prediction and stratification to help in screening and prevention. Previous risk models have had moderate success with the area under the curve (AUC) ranging from 0.68 to 0.77. Here we demonstrate a population-based machine learning model for endometrial cancer screening that achieves a testing AUC of 0.96.

We train seven machine learning algorithms based solely on personal health data, without any genomic, imaging, biomarkers, or invasive procedures. The data come from the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial (PLCO). We further compare our machine learning model with 15 gynecologic oncologists and primary care physicians in the stratification of endometrial cancer risk for 100 women.

We find a random forest model that achieves a testing AUC of 0.96 and a neural network model that achieves a testing AUC of 0.91. We test both models in risk stratification against 15 practicing physicians. Our random forest model is 2.5 times better at identifying above-average risk women with a 2-fold reduction in the false positive rate. Our neural network model is 2 times better at identifying above-average risk women with a 3-fold reduction in the false positive rate.

Our machine learning models provide a non-invasive and cost-effective way to identify high-risk sub-populations who may benefit from early screening of endometrial cancer, prior to disease onset. Through statistical biopsy of personal health data, we have identified a new and effective approach for early cancer detection and prevention for individual patients.
Boosting Immunity of the Registered Reports System in Psychology to the Pandemic
Authors: Sasaki Kyoshiro , Yamada Yuki
Published: November 2020

In psychology, a Registered Reports system is key to preventing questionable research practices. Under this system, manuscripts, including their detailed protocols (i.e., hypothesis, experimental design, sample size, and methods of statistical analysis), are reviewed prior to data collection. If a protocol manuscript is accepted, publication of the full manuscript including the results and discussion is guaranteed in principle regardless of whether the collected data support the registered hypothesis. However, this assurance of publication might be broken under the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic: Begrudging withdrawal of an accepted protocol manuscript due to a difficulty to meet the deadline by compelling reasons (e.g., pandemic) has occurred. The present paper reports the first author’s real-life experience related to the collapse of the assurance of publication in the Registered Reports system and discusses the disbenefits of this collapse. Furthermore, we propose the implementation of a journal section specific to protocol manuscripts as a solution to the crisis of the Registered Reports system.
Springtails—Worldwide Jumpers
Authors: Potapov Anton
Published: November 2020

Springtails are tiny, six-legged animals that you meet every day, but hardly notice. They can survive in big cities, on ice in Antarctica, in the deepest caves, and in rainforest canopies. Some scientists call them the earliest known and the most numerous insects on Earth. Springtails are famous jumpers—if they were as large as humans, they would easily be jumping over 10-story buildings. This ability allows them to escape from danger. Every day, springtails are very busy, improving soil health and supporting numerous species of spiders, beetles, ants, and other small predators on our planet. They are a key part of soil biodiversity, but we still need to learn a lot about them and many of these beautiful animals are yet to be discovered.
Persistence of Escherichia coli O157:H12 and Escherichia coli K12 as Non-pathogenic Surrogates for O157:H7 on Lettuce Cultivars Irrigated With Secondary-Treated Wastewater and Roof-Collected Rain Water in the Field
Authors: Yin Hsin-Bai , Gupta Nidhi , Chen Chi-Hung , Boomer Ashley , Pradhan Abani , Patel Jitendra
Published: November 2020

Treated wastewater (TW) and roof-collected rain water (RW) that meet the required microbial quality as per Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) regulation may serve as alternative irrigation water sources to decrease the pressure on the current water scarcity. Alternative water sources may have different water characteristics that influence the survival and transfer of microorganisms to the irrigated produce. Further, these water sources may contain pathogenic bacteria such as Shiga-toxigenicEscherichia coli. To evaluate the risk associated with TW and RW irrigation on the fresh produce safety, the effect of TW and RW irrigation on the transfer of two non-pathogenicE. colistrains as surrogates forE. coliO157:H7 to different lettuce cultivars grown in the field was investigated. Lettuce cultivars “Annapolis,” “Celinet,” and “Coastline” were grown in the field at the Fulton farm (Chambersburg, PA). Approximately 10 days before harvest, lettuce plants were spray-irrigated with groundwater (GW), TW, or RW containing 6 log CFU ml−1of a mixture of nalidixic acid-resistantE. coliO157:H12 and chloramphenicol-resistantE. coliK12 in fecal slurry as non-pathogenic surrogates forE. coliO157:H7. On 0, 1, 3, 7, and 10 days post-irrigation, four replicate lettuce leaf samples (30 g per sample) from each group were collected and pummeled in 120 ml of buffered peptone water for 2 min, followed by spiral plating on MacConkey agars with antibiotics. Results showed that the recovery ofE. coliO157:H12 was significantly greater than the populations ofE. coliK12 recovered from the irrigated lettuce regardless of the water sources and the lettuce cultivars. The TW irrigation resulted in the lowest recovery of theE. colisurrogates on the lettuce compared to the populations of these bacteria recovered from the lettuce with RW and GW irrigation on day 0. The difference in leaf characteristics of lettuce cultivars significantly influenced the recovery of these surrogates on lettuce leaves. Populations ofE. coliO157:H12 recovered from the RW-irrigated “Annapolis” lettuce were significantly lower than the recovery of this bacterium from the “Celinet” and “Coastline” lettuce (P< 0.05). Overall, the recovery of specificE. colisurrogates from the RW and TW irrigated lettuce was comparable to the lettuce with the GW irrigation, where GW served as a baseline water source.E. coliO157:H12 could be a more suitable surrogate compared toE. coliK12 because it is an environmental watershed isolate. The findings of this study provide critical information in risk assessment evaluation of RW and TW irrigation on lettuce in Mid-Atlantic area.
Innovation and New Technologies in Spine Surgery, Circa 2020: A Fifty-Year Review
Authors: Cornwall G. Bryan , Davis Andrea , Walsh William R. , Mobbs Ralph J. , Vaccaro Alexander
Published: November 2020

Spine surgery (lumbar, cervical, deformity, and entire spine) has increased in volume and improved in outcomes over the past 50 years because of innovations in surgical techniques and introduction of new technologies to improve patient care. Innovation is described as a process to add value or create change in an enterprise's economic or social potential. This mini review will assess two of three assessments of innovation in spine surgery: scientific publications and patents issued. The review of both scientific publications and issued patents is a unique assessment. The third assessment of innovation: regulatory clearances of medical devices and equipment for spine surgery and their evolution over time, will also be discussed.
Application of the Endoscopic Micro-Inspection Tool QEVO® in the Surgical Treatment of Anterior Circulation Aneurysms—A Technical Note and Case Series
Authors: Schebesch Karl-Michael , Doenitz Christian , Haj Amer , Höhne Julius , Schmidt Nils Ole
Published: November 2020

Introduction: The application of neuro-endoscopes in cerebral aneurysm surgery may help to avoid unintended aneurysm remnants and the accidental clipping of perforating arteries and aid the detection of blood collecting in the subdural spaces. Here, we present our experience with the novel endoscopic micro-inspection tool QEVO® (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Germany) in aneurysm surgery.

Materials and Equipment: In all patients the surgical microscope KINEVO® (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Germany) and the Microinspection tool QEVO® were applied.

Methods: The case series comprises 22 unruptured cerebral aneurysms of the anterior circulation. All aneurysms were treated surgically. All patients routinely underwent computed tomography and digital subtraction angiography within 10 days after surgery.

Results: No aneurysm remnants, cerebral ischemic deficits, or subdural hematomas were detected.

Discussion: In this technical note, we discuss the benefits and limitations of the QEVO® tool and illustrate the major paradigms by means of intraoperative photographs.
Characterization of the Intestinal Microbiota of Broiler Breeders With Different Egg Laying Rate
Authors: Yang Zengqiao , Zhang Chunhua , Wang Jianping , Celi Pietro , Ding Xuemei , Bai Shiping , Zeng Qiufeng , Mao Xiangbing , Zhuo Yong , Xu Shengyu , Yan Hui , Zhang Keying , Shan Zhiguo
Published: November 2020

The gastrointestinal microbiota plays a pivotal role in maintaining animal health, immunity and reproductive performances. However, literature about the relationship between microbiota and reproductive performance is limited. The aim of the present study was to determine differences in the intestinal microbiota of broiler breeders with different egg laying rate. A total of 200 AA+ parent broiler breeders (41-week-old) were separated into two groups according to their different egg laying rate [average egg laying rate group (AR: 78.57 ± 0.20%) and high egg laying rate group (HR: 90.79 ± 0.43%). Feed conversion ratio (FCR), ovary cell apoptosis rate (ApoCR) and relative abdominal fat weight were lower (p = 0.01), while the hatchability rate of qualified egg was higher (p = 0.04) in HR group than that in AR group. Phascolarctobacterium abundance were lower (p = 0.012) in ileum of HR birds. Romboutsia (genus) in ileum was negatively related to the feed efficiency (r = −0.58, p < 0.05), Firmicutes (phylum) and Lactobacillus (genus) abundances in cecum were positively related to the egg laying rate (ELR) (r = 0.35 and 0.48, p < 0.05), feed efficiency (r = 0.42 and 0.43, p < 0.05), while Spirochaetes (phylum) and Sphaerochaeta (genus) abundances in cecum were negatively related to the ELR (r = −0.43 and −0.70, p < 0.05), feed efficiency (r = 0.54 and 0.48, p < 0.05), and positively related to ApoCR (r = 0.46 and 0.47, p < 0.05). Our results suggested that microbiota, such as Firmicutes (phylum) and Lactobacillus (genus) have positive relationship, while Spirochaetes (phylum) and Romboutsia (genus) abundances exert negative relationship with broiler breeders' reproductive performances.
Evaluation of Psychotropic Drug Use in Adolescents Accessing a General Emergency Medical Department for Mental Disorders
Authors: Buttera Martina , Clavenna Antonio , Tansini Lucia , Maselli Erica , Albizzati Alessandro , Canevini Maria Paola , Bonati Maurizio
Published: November 2020

Background: Given the paucity of data concerning the care of adolescents attending an emergency department (ED) for mental disorders, we performed an observational study with the aim to describe psychotropic drug use in an Italian ED. Methods: A retrospective chart review of adolescents (13–17 years) visited in the ED of the San Paolo University Hospital in Milan for mental disorders between January and June 2018 was conducted. Information concerning age, gender, type of disorder, psychotropic drug use in the ED and outcome of the visit were analyzed, using an anonymous patient code. Results: A total of 1298 adolescents, 13–17 years old, were visited in the ED, 56 (4%) of whom had a diagnosis of mental disorder (34 females and 22 males). The most common disorder was anxiety (21 patients), followed by predominant psychomotor disorder (13 patients). In all, 30 adolescents received a psychotropic drug. Benzodiazepines were the most commonly used drugs (73% of the subjects), and delorazepam was administered/prescribed to 17 adolescents, despite the fact that evidence on its safety, efficacy, and its off-label use in the pediatric population is lacking. Conclusions: One out of two adolescents attending the ED for an acute episode of mental disorder received a psychotropic drug prescription, mainly in an off-label manner. More evidence is needed to guide the pharmacological management of acute episodes of mental disorders.
The Relationship between Environmental Characteristics and Risk Management Practices on Produce Farms: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Jayawardhana Dilhani Nisansala , Cao Loan Thi Thanh , Yeargin Thomas A. , Gibson Kristen E. , M. Fraser Angela
Published: November 2020

Produce-associated foodborne disease outbreaks have increased worldwide highlighting the importance of proper implementation of risk management practices (RMP). We determined the relationship between environmental characteristics (i.e., physical resources) of produce farms and implementation of RMP. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses principles, we identified 36 studies to include in our analysis. Most study data were collected through surveys administered to growers in developed countries. Quality assessment results showed that studies on this topic should be more rigorously conducted (e.g., powering sample sizes and training data collectors) to yield better quality evidence. Agricultural waters were the most common environmental characteristic assessed, with many farms using unsafe water sources. Hygiene aids (e.g., accessible handwashing facilities), were lacking across many farms. Animal intrusion RMP were the least commonly assessed environmental characteristic. Only one study tested the relationship between on-farm environmental characteristics and RMP implementation reporting a positive relationship between accessible handwashing and worker hygiene practices. Grower knowledge and perception of RMP combined with cost and ease in carrying out RMP might influence the availability of physical resources for proper RMP implementation. These results can inform practical interventions aimed to increase adoption of RMP on produce farms.
Improvement of Soil Health through Residue Management and Conservation Tillage in Rice-Wheat Cropping System of Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Zahid Adnan , Ali Sajid , Ahmed Mukhtar , Iqbal Nadeem
Published: November 2020

In South Asia, soil health degradation is affecting the sustainability of the rice-wheat cropping system (RWCS). Indeed, for the sustainability of the soil quality, new adaptive technologies, i.e., conservation tillage and straw management resource conservation, are promising options. This investigation was focused on the interaction of tillage and straw management practices and their effects on Aridisols, Yermosols soil quality, and nutrients dynamics with different soil profiles within RWCS. The long-term field experiment was started in 2014 with the scenarios (i) conventional tillage (SC1), (ii) residue incorporation (SC2), (iii) straw management practices (SC3 and SC4) and conservation tillage (SC5). Conservation tillage practice (SC5) showed significant impact on properties of soil and availability of nutrients in comparison with that of conventional farmers practice (SC1) at the studied soil depths. The SC5 showed significant results of gravitational water contents (25.34%), moderate pH (7.4), soil organic-matter (7.6 g kg−1), total nitrogen (0.38 g kg−1), available phosphate (7.4 mg kg−1), available potassium (208 mg kg−1) compared to SC1 treatment at 0 to 15 cm soil depth. Whereas, DTPA-extractable-Cu, Mn, and Zn concentration were significantly higher, i.e., 1.12 mg kg−1, 2.14 mg kg−1, and 4.35 mg kg−1, respectively under SC5 than conventional farmer’s practices, while DTPA (diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid) extractable Fe (6.15 mg kg−1) was more in straw management practices (SC4) than conventional and conservation tillage. Therefore, conservation tillage (SC5) can surge the sustainability of the region by improving soil assets and nutrients accessibility and has the potential to minimize inorganic fertilizers input in the long run.
Environmental Effects on Soybean (Glycine Max (L.) Merr) Production in Central and South Germany
Authors: Sobko Olena , Stahl Andreas , Hahn Volker , Zikeli Sabine , Claupein Wilhelm , Gruber Sabine
Published: November 2020

The cultivation area of soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr) is increasing in Germany as a way to ensure self-sufficiency through its use as feed and food. However, climatic conditions needed for soybean cultivation are not appropriate in all parts of the country. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of solar radiation, temperature, and precipitation on soybean seed productivity and quality in central and south Germany. A multi-factorial field trial was carried out with three replicates at four locations in 2016 and five locations in 2017, testing 13 soybean varieties from the maturity groups MG 00 and MG 000. Considering all the tested factors, “variety” was highly significant concerning protein content (Ø 41.1% dry matter (DM)) and oil content (Ø 19.1% in DM), but not seed yield (Ø 40.5 dt ha−1).The broad sense heritability of protein content was H2 = 0.80 and of oil content H2 = 0.7. Protein and oil content were significantly negatively correlated (r = −0.82). Seed yield was significantly positively correlated with solar radiation (r = 0.32) and precipitation (r = 0.33), but significantly negatively with Crop Heat Units (CHU) (r = −0.42). Over both experimental years, varieties from maturity group MG 00 were less significantly correlated with the tested environmental factors than varieties from maturity group MG 000. None of the environmental factors tested significantly increased the protein or oil content of soybean. In growing areas with heat periods during ripening, protein content tended to be higher than in cooler areas; in areas with high solar radiation during flowering, protein content tended to be reduced.
Supplementary Far-Red Light Did Not Affect Tomato Plant Growth or Yield under Mediterranean Greenhouse Conditions
Authors: Palmitessa Onofrio Davide , Leoni Beniamino , Montesano Francesco Fabiano , Serio Francesco , Signore Angelo , Santamaria Pietro
Published: November 2020

In the Mediterranean region, tomato plants are often cultivated in two short cycles per year to avoid the heat of summer and the low solar radiation of winter. Supplementary light (SL) makes it possible to cultivate during the dark season. In this experiment, a tomato F1 hybrid cultivar DRW7723 was cultivated in a greenhouse for a fall-winter cycle. After transplant, light emitting diode (LED) interlighting, with two light spectra (red + blue vs. red + blue + far-red) was applied as SL. Plant growth, yield, gas exchange, nutrient solution (NS) consumption, and fruit quality were analyzed. In general, the effects of adding far-red radiation were not visible on the parameters analyzed, although the yield was 27% higher in plants grown with SL than those grown without. Tomatoes had the same average fresh weight between SL treatments, but the plants grown with SL produced 16% more fruits than control. Fruit quality, gas exchange and NS uptake were not influenced by the addition of far-red light. Interlighting is, therefore, a valid technique to increase fruit production in winter but at our latitude the effects of adding far-red radiation are mitigated by available sunlight.
Combining Ability and Genetic Components of Yield Characteristics, Dry Matter Content, and Total Carotenoids in Provitamin A Cassava F1 Cross-Progeny
Authors: Parkes Elizabeth , Aina Olufemi , Kingsley Akuwa , Iluebbey Peter , Bakare Moshood , Agbona Afolabi , Akpotuzor Patrick , Labuschagne Maryke , Kulakow Peter
Published: November 2020

Cassava is an important root crop in sub-Saharan Africa, largely cultivated for its starchy edible roots. Biofortified cassava varieties with enhanced provitamin A carotenoid content (PVAC) developed through conventional breeding provide a solution for vitamin A deficiency among vulnerable communities. The aim of this study was to use diallel analysis of six provitamin A cassava genotypes to determine the combining ability, genetic components, heritability, and heterosis of the most important yield characteristics and total carotenoids. Genetic variability for measured characteristics were evident. Fresh root yield was mainly determined by non-additive genetic effects, while dry matter content and total carotenoids were determined by additive effects. Total carotenoids were negatively correlated with fresh root yield, indicating that selection for higher provitamin A content could reduce yield. Mid and higher parent heterosis was seen in some of the crosses for fresh root yield, dry matter content, and total carotenoids. Narrow sense heritability was moderate for fresh root yield and dry matter content, and was high for total carotenoids. This study indicated that yield and dry matter content can be improved in provitamin A cassava but that increased provitamin A content may carry a yield penalty.
Assessing the Diversity and Population Substructure of Sarda Breed Bucks by Using Mtdna and Y-Chromosome Markers
Authors: Dettori Maria Luisa , Petretto Elena , Pazzola Michele , Vidal Oriol , Amills Marcel , Vacca Giuseppe Massimo
Published: November 2020

A sample of 146 Sarda bucks from eight subregions of Sardinia, Italy (Nuorese, Barbagia, Baronia, Ogliastra, Sarrabus, Guspinese, Iglesiente, Sulcis) were characterized for Y-chromosome and mtDNA markers to assess the levels of population substructure. Five polymorphic loci (SRY, AMELY, ZFY, and DDX3Y) on the Y-chromosome were genotyped. The control region of mtDNA was sequenced as a source of complementary information. Analysis of Y-chromosome data revealed the segregation of 5 haplotypes: Y1A (66.43%), Y2 (28.57%), Y1C (3.57%), Y1B1 (0.71%), and Y1B2 (0.71%). High levels of Y-chromosome diversity were observed in populations from Southwest Sardinia. The FST values based on Y-chromosome and mtDNA data were low, although a paternal genetic differentiation was observed when comparing the Nuorese and Barbagia populations (Central Sardinia) with the Sulcis, Iglesiente, and Sarrabus populations (Southern Sardinia). AMOVA analysis supported the lack of population substructure. These results suggest the occurrence of a historical and extensive gene flow between Sarda goat populations from different locations of Sardinia, despite the fact that this island is covered by several large mountain ranges. Introgression with foreign caprine breeds in order to improve milk production might have also contributed to avoiding the genetic differentiation amongst Sarda populations.
Butyrate Permeation across the Isolated Ovine Reticulum Epithelium
Authors: Rackwitz Reiko , Dengler Franziska , Gäbel Gotthold
Published: November 2020

We hypothesized that, due to the high pH of this compartment, the reticulum epithelium displays particular features in the transport of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA). Ovine reticulum epithelium was incubated in Ussing chambers using a bicarbonate-free buffer solution containing butyrate (20 mmol L−1). p-hydroxymercuribenzoic acid (pHMB), 5-(N-Ethyl-N-isopropyl)amiloride (EIPA), or ouabain were added to the buffer solution as inhibitors of monocarboxylate transporters, sodium-proton-exchangers, or the Na+/K+-ATPase, respectively. The short-circuit current (Isc) and transepithelial conductance (Gt) were monitored continuously while the flux rates of 14C-labelled butyrate were measured in the mucosal-to-serosal (Jmsbut) or serosal-to-mucosal direction (Jsmbut). Under control conditions, the mean values of Isc and Gt amounted to 2.54 ± 0.46 µEq cm−2 h−1 and 6.02 ± 3.3 mS cm−2, respectively. Jmsbut was 2.1 ± 1.01 µmol cm−2 h−1 on average and about twice as high as Jsmbut. Incubation with ouabain reduced Jmsbut, while Jsmbut was not affected. The serosal addition of EIPA did not affect Jmsbut but reduced Jsmbut by about 10%. The addition of pHMB to the mucosal or serosal solution reduced Jmsbut but had no effect on Jsmbut. Mucosally applied pHMB provoked a transient increase in the Isc. The serosal pHMB sharply reduced Isc. Our results demonstrate that butyrate can be effectively transported across the reticulum epithelium. The mechanisms involved in this absorption differ from those known from the rumen epithelium.
Short-Term Effects of Arthroscopic Microfracturation of Knee Chondral Defects in Osteoarthritis
Authors: Krakowski Przemysław , Karpiński Robert , Maciejewski Ryszard , Jonak Józef , Jurkiewicz Andrzej
Published: November 2020

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to estimate the effect of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) augmentation in microfractures of chondral lesions in elderly individuals. Methods: 29 patients with knee osteoarthritis were enrolled in the single-blinded randomized study. The study group consisted of 16 patients and 13 were in the control group. All surgeries were performed in the same manner. The PRP injection was made in a dry arthroscopy directly over the microfractures. The evaluation was performed preoperatively on the 6th, 12th, and 24th week following the surgery. WOMAC and Lysholm questionnaires were utilized. Results: Microfracturation showed WOMAC improvement in the PRP group (p = 0.0012) and in the control group (p = 0.0042). No statistically significant differences between the two groups (p = 0.698) have been found. Clinical improvement was noted in the first six weeks after which the effect lasted. In addition, Lysholm score showed no significant differences at the end of the follow-up between both groups (p = 0.941). Conclusions: Arthroscopic microfracture improves motor function and reduces pain in patients over 50 years old. PRP augmentation of the procedure is safe, and can accelerate and prolong the therapeutic effect of treatment. Excellent effects of the procedure are observed in the first six weeks, after which the improvement lasts.
An Improved Biocompatible Probe for Photoacoustic Tumor Imaging Based on the Conjugation of Melanin to Bovine Serum Albumin
Authors: Capozza Martina , Stefania Rachele , Rosas Luisa , Arena Francesca , Consolino Lorena , Anemone Annasofia , Cimino James , Longo Dario Livio , Aime Silvio
Published: November 2020

A novel, highly biocompatible, well soluble melanin-based probe obtained from the conjugation of melanin macromolecule to bovine serum albumin (BSA) was tested as a contrast agent for photoacoustic tumor imaging. Five soluble conjugates (PheoBSA A-E) were synthesized by oxidation of dopamine (DA) in the presence of variable amounts of BSA. All systems showed the similar size and absorbance spectra, being PheoBSA D (DA:BSA ratio 1:2) the one showing the highest photoacoustic efficiency. This system was then selected for the investigations as it showed a marked enhancement of the photoacoustic (PA) contrast in the tumor region upon iv injection. Biodistribution studies confirmed the accumulation of PheoBSA D within the tumor region and showed fast renal elimination, lack of cell toxicity, and good hemocompatibility. A higher PA contrast enhancement was observed in the case of PC3 prostate tumor xenograft when compared to the TS/A breast one, likely reflecting different vascularization/extravasation properties between the two tumor murine models. The improved PA properties shown by PheoBSA D allowed to set up a 3D dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) approach that demonstrated a persistent increase of the PA signal in the tumor region for a long period. Overall, the herein reported results demonstrate that PheoBSA D is a promising blood pool contrast agent for in vivo PA imaging, particularly useful for the set-up of 3D DCE-PA approaches to monitor tumor vascular properties.
Integrating Virtual Reality and GIS Tools for Geological Mapping, Data Collection and Analysis: An Example from the Metaxa Mine, Santorini (Greece)
Authors: Antoniou Varvara , Bonali Fabio Luca , Nomikou Paraskevi , Tibaldi Alessandro , Melissinos Paraskevas , Mariotto Federico Pasquaré , Vitello Fabio Roberto , Krokos Mel , Whitworth Malcolm
Published: November 2020

In the present work we highlight the effectiveness of integrating different techniques and tools for better surveying, mapping and collecting data in volcanic areas. We use an Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) approach for data collection, integrated with Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis in a well-known volcanological site in Santorini (Metaxa mine), a site where volcanic processes influenced the island’s industrial development, especially with regard to pumice mining. Specifically, we have focused on: (i) three-dimensional (3D) high-resolution IVR scenario building, based on Structure from Motion photogrammetry (SfM) modeling; (ii) subsequent geological survey, mapping and data collection using IVR; (iii) data analysis, e.g., calculation of extracted volumes, as well as production of new maps in a GIS environment using input data directly from the IVR survey; and finally, (iv) presentation of new outcomes that highlight the importance of the Metaxa Mine as a key geological and volcanological geosite.