bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rehabilitation interventions for weaning from mechanical ventilation in patients with spinal cord injury: A systematic review
Authors: Lippi Lorenzo , D’Abrosca Francesco , Folli Arianna , Turco Alessio , Curci Claudio , Ammendolia Antonio , de Sire Alessandro , Invernizzi Marco
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND: Despite the fact that weaning from mechanical ventilation (MV) is one of the main rehabilitation goals in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI), controversies are still open about the optimal rehabilitation approach. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review aimed at characterizing the rehabilitation interventions currently available to optimize weaning from MV in SCI patients. METHODS: On April 12nd, 2022, a systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, and PEDro, identifying studies assessing MV patients with SCI undergoing pulmonary rehabilitation. The primary outcomes were weaning duration, MV duration, and weaning success rate. Secondary outcomes were pulmonary function, extubation or decannulation time, length of stay, and safety. RESULTS: Out of 413 records, 14 studies were included (2 randomized controlled trials, 7 observational studies, and 5 case reports). Most of the studies assessed a comprehensive rehabilitation approach, including high tidal volume ventilation, positioning, mechanical lung recruitment maneuvers, secretion management strategies, respiratory muscle training, and electrical stimulation. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggested that a comprehensive rehabilitation intervention might have a role in reducing MV duration in patients with SCI. Further studies are needed to better characterize the optimal rehabilitation strategies for enhancing functional recovery of patients with SCI.
Innovative seated vertical lumbar traction allows simultaneous computer work while inducing spinal height changes similar to supine lying
Authors: Johnson Marit E. , Karges-Brown Joy R. , Brismée Jean-Michel , Brenza Timothy M. , Piper Adam K.
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND: Lumbar intervertebral disc height loss has been associated with spinal height change (SHC) and low back pain (LBP), including stenosis. Non-invasive methods to improve disc height loss require forms of lying down, which are unconducive to computer work. OBJECTIVE: Intermittent vertical traction (VT) integrated with seated computer work may provide ergonomic alternatives for increasing SHC to promote LBP relief. The primary aim was to develop and introduce a safe VT prototype and dosage to induce and measure SHC. Prototype comfort and LBP ratings were exploratory secondary aims. METHODS: Forty-one participants were stadiometry-measured for pre- and post-intervention SHC from seated VT at 35% body weight removed, supine lying (SL), and sitting at a computer (SIT) without VT. Pain ratings were recorded for those self-reporting LBP. VT prototype evaluations were compiled from a 3-question, 7-point Likert-style survey. RESULTS: SHC increased by 3.9 ± 3.4 mm in VT, 1.7 ± 3.4 mm in SIT, and 4.3 ± 3.1 mm in SL (P< 0.000). Post hoc findings were significant between VT and SIT (P< 0.000), and SL and SIT (P< 0.000). VT and SL LBP ratings both decreased, but not SIT. CONCLUSION: Intermittent seated VT is a promising alternative for postural relief during seated computer work, producing SHC similar to lying down without compromising workflow.
The Association of Vitamin D Status with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia Subtypes: A Cross-Sectional Analysis in Dutch Geriatric Outpatients
Authors: Janse André , van de Rest Ondine , de Groot Lisette C.P.G.M. , Witkamp Renger F.
Published: January 2023

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is associated with all-cause dementia and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). At the same time, this knowledge is limited specifically for vascular dementia (VaD), while data regarding other subtypes of dementia are even more limited. Objective: To investigate the association of 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) status with dementia subtypes in an outpatient geriatric population. Methods: In a cross-sectional design, we analyzed data from 1,758 patients of an outpatient memory clinic in The Netherlands. Cognitive disorders were diagnosed by a multidisciplinary team according to international clinical standards. At each first-visit 25(OH)D levels were measured. Data were analyzed using ANCOVA in four models with age, gender, BMI, education, alcohol, smoking, season, polypharmacy, calcium, eGFR, and glucose as co-variates. 25(OH)D was treated as a continuous square rooted (sqr) variable. Results: In the fully adjusted model, reduced 25(OH)D serum levels (sqr) were found in AD (estimated mean 7.77±0.11 CI95% 7.55-7.99): and in VaD (estimated mean 7.60±0.16 CI95% 7.28-7.92) patients compared to no-dementia (ND) patients (estimated mean 8.27±0.09 CI95% 8.10-8.45) (ND-AD: p = 0.006, CI95% 0.08-0.92.; ND-VaD p = 0.004 CI95% 0.13-1.22). We did not find differences in 25(OH)D levels of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or other dementia patients compared to ND patients, nor differences in comparing dementia subtypes. Conclusion: We observed significantly lower 25(OH)D serum levels in both AD and VaD patients compared to no-dementia patients, but no significant differences between MCI and Lewy body and mixed dementia subtypes in this cross-sectional study of a geriatric outpatient clinic population.
APOE Genotype Modifies the Association of Fusiform Gyrus Cerebral Metabolic Rate of Oxygen Consumption and Object Naming Performance
Authors: Hays Weeks Chelsea C. , Zlatar Zvinka Z. , Meloy M.J. , Shin David D. , Thomas Liu , Wierenga Christina E.
Published: January 2023

Background: The apolipoprotein E (APOE) ɛ4 allele confers risk for age and Alzheimer’s disease related cognitive decline but the mechanistic link remains poorly understood. Blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) response in the fusiform gyrus (FG) during object naming appears greater among APOE ɛ4 carriers even in the face of equivalent cognitive performance, suggesting neural compensation. However, BOLD is susceptible to known age and APOE-related vascular changes that could confound its interpretation. Objective: To address this limitation, we used calibrated fMRI during an object naming task and a hypercapnic challenge to obtain a more direct measure of neural function – percent change cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen consumption (%ΔCMRO2). Methods: Participants were 45 older adults without dementia (28 ɛ4–, 17 ɛ4+) between the ages of 65 and 85. We examined APOE-related differences in %ΔCMRO2 in the FG during object naming and the extent to which APOE modified associations between FG %ΔCMRO2 and object naming accuracy. Exploratory analyses also tested the hypothesis that %ΔCMRO2 is less susceptible to vascular compromise than are measures of %ΔCBF and %ΔBOLD. Results: We observed a modifying role of APOE on associations between FG %ΔCMRO2 and cognition, with ɛ4 carriers (but not non-carriers) demonstrating a positive association between right FG %ΔCMRO2 and object naming accuracy. Conclusion: Results suggest that the relationship between neural function and cognition is altered among older adult APOE ɛ4 carriers prior to the onset of dementia, implicating CMRO2 response as a potential mechanism to support cognition in APOE-related AD risk.
An intrusion detection method based on granular autoencoders
Authors: Lin Sihong , Zhang Kunbin , Guan Dun , He Linjie , Chen Yumin
Published: January 2023

Intrusion detection systems have become one of the important tools for network security due to the frequent attacks brought about by the explosive growth of network traffic. Autoencoder is an unsupervised learning model with a neural network structure. It has a powerful feature learning capability and is effective in intrusion detection. However, its network construction suffers from overfitting and gradient disappearance problems. Traditional granular computing methods have advantages in solving such problems, but the process is relatively complex, the granularity dimension is high, and the computational cost is large, which is not suitable for application in intrusion detection systems. To address these problems, we propose a novel autoencoder: Granular AutoEncoders (GAE). The granulation reference set is constructed by random sampling. The granulation of training samples is based on single-feature similarity in a reference set to form granules. The granulation of multiple features results in granular vectors. Some operations of granules are defined. Furthermore, we propose some granular measures, including granular norms and granular loss functions. The GAE is further applied to the field of intrusion detection by designing an anomaly detection algorithm based on the GAE. The algorithm determines whether the network flows are anomalous by comparing the difference between an input granular vector and its output granular vector that is reconstructed by the GAE. Finally, some experiments are conducted using an intrusion detection dataset, comparing multiple metrics in terms of precision, recall, and F1-Score. The experimental results validate the correctness and effectiveness of the intrusion detection method based on GAE. And contrast experiments show that the proposed method has stronger ability for detecting anomalies than the correlation algorithms.
Understanding work inclusion: Analysis of the perspectives of people with intellectual disabilities on employment in the Icelandic labor market
Authors: Hafsteinsdóttir Álfheiður , Hardonk Stefan C.
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND: People with intellectual disabilities experience persistent marginalization in relation to work and employment. The concept of work inclusion provides a way of generating a more specific understanding of the meaning of employment participation. Work inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities focuses not on mere presence, but instead emphasizes relational aspects and potential for meaningful participation. OBJECTIVE: In this paper we report on an empirical study into the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities of employment participation in the Icelandic labor market. We considered their experiences in relation to four key components of work inclusion, placing emphasis on how they perceived opportunities for inclusion related to social relations, belonging, valued contributions and trust. METHODS: This study used a qualitative research design. Data was collected with semi-structured interviews with 9 participants with intellectual disabilities who all had experience of being employed in the Icelandic labor market. RESULTS: Our findings show the role of the work environment in participants’ experiences of opportunities for having good relations at work, having a sense of belonging to the organization, being able to make a contribution to the goals of the organization, and receiving trust in one’s professional role and responsibility. When participants experienced opportunities in relation to these basic components of work inclusion, they felt more positively about their employment participation. Lack of opportunities was reported as a reason for segregation and withdrawal. CONCLUSION: This study shows the importance for work organizations and other actors in the labor market of paying attention to components of work inclusion and their relation with corporate culture.
A qualitative enquiry regarding the factors influencing return to work after a cardiac incident in the Western Cape, South Africa
Authors: Ganie Zakeera , Soeker Mogammad Shaheed
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease is amongst the top three leading causes of mortality in South Africa and the world. The effects of cardiovascular disease can be seen in limitations of function within all spheres of life, including work function. Cardiac rehabilitation programs have been documented to improve functional abilities, however further research is required with regard to activity limitation, participation restrictions, facilitators, and barriers of return to work, after cardiac rehabilitation. OBJECTIVE: This qualitative study aimed to determine and explore the barriers and enablers of return to work for individuals with cardiovascular disease who completed a cardiac rehabilitation program in the Western Cape, South Africa. The qualitative exploration was part of a study that resulted in a return-to-work program for individuals with cardiac disease. METHODS: Qualitative methodology was employed for this study. Semi-structured interviews were used with 10 participants that attended a cardiac rehabilitation program. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data was completed. RESULTS: The participants described the barriers and facilitators of their return-to-work process and the factors that were of critical importance in the resumption of the worker role or the result of unemployment. The four major themes were 1) Cardiac conditions negatively affect function, 2) Being unemployed, 3) Participation in ADLs and lifestyle modification enhances one’s activity levels, and 4) Return to work. CONCLUSION: Lifestyle modification, vocational rehabilitation and reasonable accommodation were viewed as helpful in enabling a successful return to work after a cardiac incident.
Vitamin D status and COVID-19 prevention in a worker subgroup in Italy
Authors: Ubaldi Francesca , Montanari Enrico , Margarucci Lory Marika , Caprara Claudio , Gianfranceschi Gianluca , Scaramucci Elena , Piccolella Antonio , Valeriani Federica , Romano Spica Vincenzo
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND: Low levels of vitamin D are widespread in the world’s population and associated with sun exposure, genetics, and lifestyles. Office workers in different occupational sectors seem more vulnerable than others. Scientific evidence reports a contribution of vitamin D in resistance to infections, opening to supplementation as a preventive action against pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2. OBJECTIVE: A pilot campaign in the workplace during the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was conducted based on the preliminary measurement of vitamin D amount and its integration. METHODS: A preventive action to contrast the deficiency of vitamin D was offered to a population of 700 bank employees. Vitamin D supplementation was performed between April and June 2021, on workers (n = 139) and showed 25(OH)D serum levels ≤ 30 ng/ml. Demographic, anthropometric and lifestyle information were collected by survey and changes in the serum 25(OH)D amounts were monitored. RESULTS: The adherence of the target population to the prevention campaign was 21%. 75% of the enrolled workers had low levels of vitamin D. After the intervention, serum vitamin D levels increased (1.28-fold;p = 0.0001) and 80% of the subjects reported optimal values > 30 ng/ml. Only 2.9% reported slight flu-like symptoms, but only 0.7% was confirmed as COVID-19, with respect to a ten-fold higher incidence in the general population. CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin D supplementation can be achieved by simple and noninvasive approaches and can bring along further insights into health literacy on diet and lifestyles, representing an opportunity to protect the population by the widespread state of vitamin deficiency.
SPECTRUM OF CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS, AUTOANTIBODIES AND LEVELS OF INFLAMMATORY MARKERS IN MEN WITH SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS
Authors: Iaremenko O.B. , Koliadenko D.I.
Published: January 2023

Relevance. The proportion of men among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is only 4-22%, but possible differences in the context of the clinical course and prognosis of the disease in this group of patients require more detailed study.

Objective: to assess the spectrum of clinical manifestations, autoantibodies and the level of inflammatory markers in men with SLE.

Materials and methods. 371 patients with SLE were examined, including 321 women (86.5%) and 50 men (13.5%). Clinical data, SLEDAI index and SLICC/DI damage, levels of inflammatory markers (erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein) and spectrum of specific autoantibodies (antibodies to dsDNA, Sm, Ro/SSA, La/SSB, RNP, antiphospholipid antibodies) were evaluated.

Results. Alopecia (18.0% vs 33.0%; p=0.036) and arthralgia (22.0% vs 40.0%; p=0.016) were significantly less common in men with SLE. In contrast, nephritis with nephrotic syndrome was more than three times more common in male SLE patients (14.3%) than in women (4.1%; p=0.032). There was also a difference in the frequency of serositis: men were significantly more likely to have pleurisy (36.7%) than women (21.6%; p=0.044). Nervous system involvement was less common in men (12.0% vs 29.6%; p=0.007), as well as Raynaud's syndrome (16.0% vs 29.8%; p=0.05) and Sjogren's syndrome (0% vs 8.0%, p=0.023) compared with women. However, trophic ulcers were three times more common in men with SLE (14.3% vs 3.5%; p=0.019). Involvement of the mononuclear phagocyte system, heart, lungs, constitutional symptoms, antiphospholipid syndrome, hematological manifestations did not differ significantly between the representatives of both sexes. There were also no gender differences in SLEDAI indices and SLICC damage, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, C3, C4 complement levels. Antibodies to Ro/SSA were significantly less common in male SLE patients than in women (23.1% and 58.5%, respectively, p=0.033).

Conclusions. Men with SLE are less likely to have alopecia, arthralgia, Raynaud's syndrome, nervous system involvement and Sjogren's syndrome than women. However, males with SLE are more likely to have kidney disease with nephrotic syndrome, pleuritis and trophic ulcers. Presence of anti-Ro/SSA antibodies in men with SLE is less common than in women.
THE ROLE OF ANTIFUNGAL THERAPY IN THE TREATMENT OF ATOPIC DERMATITIS IN CHILDREN
Authors: Mozyrska O.V.
Published: January 2023

Relevance. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common multifactorial disease in which allergens from the yeast Malassezia can worsen the severity of the disease. Local application of antimycotic drugs can reduce the allergen load on the skin and improve its condition.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of ketoconazole 2% cream in the treatment of AD in children as an additional therapy, and the effect of sensitization to Malassezia and polymorphism rs7309123 in the Dectin-1 gene on the effectiveness of treatment.

Materials and methods. 54 patients with atopic dermatitis aged 6-18 years were included in the study. Patients were randomized into two groups: a group receiving ketoconazole cream 2% (n=28) and a control group (n=26). Specific IgE to Malassezia was analyzed in 28 patients of the main group. Genotyping of the rs7309123 polymorphism in the Dectin-1 gene was performed in a group of patients using real-time PCR. Atopic dermatitis disease activity was evaluated before and after treatment using the SCORAD.

Results. Improvement was observed in both groups of children in 3 weeks after treatment (p<0,001). Children who received ketoconazole in addition to therapy had significantly better dynamics of the severity indicator, compared to the control group (W=465,0, p<0,001). The rs7309123 polymorphism in the Dectin-1 gene affected the effectiveness of treatment: ΔSCORAD in the subgroup of children with the CC and CG genotypes was significantly higher than in the subgroup of children with the pathological GG genotype (20,2±11,5 and 13±6,5, respectively, T=2,12, p=0,044).

Conclusion. This study demonstrated the effectiveness of ketoconazole in the treatment of atopic dermatitis as an additional therapy.
Congenital anemia: a diagnostic algorithm
Authors:   Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russian Federation, Zaplatnikov A.L. , Podzolkova M.N. ,   Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russian Federation, Ponimanskaya M.A. ,   F.I. Inozemtsev City Clinical Hospital, Moscow, Russian Federation, Denisova Yu.V. ,   Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russian Federation, Dmitriev A.V. ,   Ryazan State Medical University, Ryazan, Russian Federation, Dement’ev A.A. ,   Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russian Federation, Chabaidze Zh.L. ,   Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russian Federation, Smirnov D.N. ,   Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: January 2023

Congenital anemia is one of the major interdisciplinary problems of modern medicine. The aim of this publication is to outline the current concepts of early diagnosis of congenital anemia for their introduction in obstetric care practices. As a result, it will be possible to improve the disease prognosis and, in general, to reduce perinatal losses. Congenital anemias include those developed in the ante- and/or intranatal period. The main causes of congenital anemia comprise fetal blood loss, severe forms of intrauterine infections and hemolytic disease of the fetus. It is specified that the most common cause of congenital anemia is fetal blood loss. Prenatal fetal blood loss can be categorized as transplacental (fetal-maternal), intraplacental, retroplacental, fetal-fetal (in case of multifetal monochorionic pregnancy) and iatrogenic (rare complications of the invasive methods of patient examination and treatment). Fetal blood loss during delivery may be caused by various damages and/or disorders of the umbilical cord (rupture, hematoma) and/or the placenta (placental presentation or abruption, chorioangioma, etc.), as well as hemorrhages and bleedings (intracranial, into internal organs, etc.) of the fetus in case of abnormal labor and/or severe hypoxia. The article highlights the current verification criteria of congenital anemia and an algorithm of its diagnosis KEYWORDS: anemia, immune hydrops fetalis, intrauterine infections, congenital anemia, complete blood count, fetal blood loss, non-immune hydrops fetalis, newborn infant, posthemorrhagic anemia. FOR CITATION: Zaplatnikov A.L., Podzolkova M.N., Ponimanskaya M.A. et al. Congenital anemia: a diagnostic algorithm. Russian Journal of Woman and Child Health. 2022;5(4):358–365 (in Russ.). DOI: 10.32364/2618-8430-2022-5-4-358-365.
A case of Ceftriaxone-induced immune thrombocytopenia: A diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma
Authors: Saha Arunava , Mitra Shari
Published: January 2023

INTRODUCTION

Drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia (DITP) is a rare and often difficult-to-diagnose cause of thrombocytopenia, caused by drug-dependent platelet antibodies leading to increased platelet consumption and destruction. DITP evolves within 7 days of initiation of the offending drug and is characterized by thrombocytopenia, with or without bleeding manifestations. Immediate discontinuation of the inciting drug remains the cornerstone of management. Although the most commonly identified drugs are quinine, penicillamine, and valproic acid, isolated cases of ceftriaxone-induced immune thrombocytopenia have been reported.

CASE REPORT

A 60-year-old female presented with fever, dysuria, and fatigue for 3 days with associated proximal muscle weakness for a few weeks. She was diagnosed with right pyelonephritis with urine cultures growing non-ESBL (extended-spectrum beta-lactamase) Escherichia Coli for which she was started on Ceftriaxone 2g daily. She was also started on low-dose prednisone 20mg daily for fibromyalgia. Her platelet count continued to downtrend and on day 7 of treatment reached a nadir of 18K/μL. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) was excluded. She received one unit of platelets and ceftriaxone was switched to ceftazidime, with which her platelet counts improved. Owing to the temporal relationship between the development and resolution of thrombocytopenia with the commencement and withdrawal of ceftriaxone, drug-induced thrombocytopenia was diagnosed. Naranjo's algorithm revealed a probable adverse drug reaction but confirmatory tests for ceftriaxone-induced platelet antibodies could not be performed.

DISCUSSION

DITP remains a diagnosis of exclusion and poses a significant therapeutic challenge. Clinicians need to have a high index of suspicion to rule out common causes of unexplained thrombocytopenia before diagnosing DITP.
Intestinal microbiocenos of rainbow trout in the conditions of a cage farm
Authors: Zaitseva Yuliya Vladimirovna , Dokolin Dmitriy , Zlobin Il'ya
Published: January 2023

Abstract. The rapid growth of the aquaculture industry using modern intensive farming methods has led to a number of problems related to water quality and the spread of infectious diseases in fish. The intestinal physiological microbiota of fish and the surrounding aquatic environment forming an ecosystem, the balance of which is a key factor in maintaining the health of aquaculture. However, optimizing the microbiota is still a challenging task due to a lack of studies about the dominant microorganisms in aquacultures and the influence of environmental factors on it. The aim of this work was to study the structure and taxonomic composition of the cultivatable bacterial gut community of the rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss under the conditions of the “Yaroslavskaya Trout” cage farm. Methods. To identify the isolated strains and characterize the composition of common bacterial communities were used phenotypic and biochemical characteristics, as well as amplification and sequencing of 16S rRNA gene fragments and subsequent phylogenetic analysis. Scientific novelty. Data on the taxonomic diversity of the cultivated rainbow trout gut microbiome have been obtained. A comparative analysis of fish intestinal microbiocenoses and the surrounding aquatic environment was carried out. Results and practical significance. Gammaproteobacteria was the most abundant bacteria in the structure of the studied microbial communities. Bacteria of the genera Pseudomonas, Stenotrophomonas, and Aeromonas were found in the microbiome of both the rainbow trout intestines and the surrounding aquatic environment, which are opportunistic pathogens and can lead to an outbreak of bacterial infections under stressful conditions. However, studies have shown that the surrounding aquatic microbiome does not always reflect the microbiome of aquatic organisms. A comparative analysis of the freshwater microbiomes and the gut microbiome of rainbow trout revealed the ability of the host organism to concentrate beneficial probiotic microorganisms even under conditions of pathogenic presure. The resulting collection of microorganisms can be further used for screening potential probiotic cultures.
Exploring Citizenship Unit I: Me, My Family, and My Friends!
Authors: Rutledge John , Jordan Joy C. , Pracht Dale
Published: January 2023

The 4-H Citizenship Project offers you the opportunity to help 4-H members relate all of their 4-H projects and experiences to the world around them. They will learn to care for and share with others through the skills and talents they’ve developed.
The 4-H Citizenship manuals will serve as a guide for 4-H Citizenship experiences. To be truly meaningful to the real life needs and interest of your group, your contribution is essential. Each person, neighborhood, and community has individual needs that you can help your group identify. Your challenge is to make Citizenship a real life experience for your group.
This 14-page fact sheet is a minor revision written by John Rutledge, Joy C. Jordan, and Dale Pracht, and pubslished by the 4-H Youth Development Department, July 2018.
4HCIM10/4H015: 4-H Exploring Citizenship, Unit I: Me, My Family, and My Friends (ufl.edu)
Exploring Citizenship Unit III: My Clubs and Groups
Authors: Jordan Joy
Published: January 2023

The 4-H Citizenship Project offers you the opportunity to help 4-H members relate all of their 4-H projects and experiences to the world around them. They will learn to care for and share with others through the skills and talents they’ve developed.
The 4-H Citizenship manuals will serve as a guide for 4-H Citizenship experiences. To be truly meaningful to the real life needs and interest of your group, your contribution is essential. Each person, neighborhood, and community has individual needs that you can help your group identify. Your challenge is to make Citizenship a real life experience for your group. 
This 20-page fact sheet is a minor revision prepared by the Southern Regional 4-H Citizenship Literature Committee through a grant from the Coca-Cola Company. Published by the  4-H Youth Development Program, November 2018.
4HCIM12/4H017: Exploring Citizenship Unit III: My Clubs and Groups (ufl.edu)
Keeping Bees in Florida
Authors: Bustamante Tomas A. , Ellis Jamie , Bammer Mary
Published: January 2023

As of June 2016, there are over 4,000 registered beekeepers in the state of Florida and 440,000 managed colonies. According to the USDA, 2012 Florida beekeepers produced over 11 million pounds of honey. The average winter colony loss in Florida as reported by the Bee Informed Partnership Management Survey was the third lowest rate across the nation with only Hawaii and Texas reporting lower colony losses in that time period. This revised 4-page fact sheet gives an overview of what makes Florida a unique state in which to keep honey bees. It explains the ins and outs of beekeeping in Florida, with descriptions of some of the hazards, a few of the important nectar-producing plants, special considerations for seasonal colony growth and management, and Florida beekeeping regulations. Written by Tomas A. Bustamante, Jamie D. Ellis, and Mary Bammer, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, September 2016.
ENY-134/AA264: Keeping Bees in Florida (ufl.edu)
Residential Irrigation System Rainfall Shutoff Devices, or Rain Sensors
Authors: Dukes Michael D. , Haman Dorota Z.
Published: January 2023

Rain sensors—also called rain shutoff devices—are designed to interrupt the cycle of an automatic irrigation system controller when a specific amount of rainfall has occurred. They are small devices connected to the irrigation system controller and mounted in an open area where they are exposed to rainfall. This 3-page fact sheet is a minor revision that was Michael D. Dukes and Dorota Z. Haman, and published by the Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department, January 2017.
ABE325/AE221: Residential Irrigation System Rainfall Shutoff Devices, or Rain Sensors (ufl.edu)
Biological Control with Insects: The Waterhyacinth Weevils
Authors: Center Ted D. , Dray F. Allen , Vandiver Vernon V. , Gettys Lyn A. , Tipping Philip W.
Published: January 2023

This 2-page fact sheet is a minor revision written by Ted D. Center, F. Allen Dray, Vernon V. Vandiver Jr., Lyn A. Gettys, and Philip W. Tipping, and published by the Agronomy Department, April 2017.
SS-AGR-141/AG019: Biological Control with Insects: The Waterhyacinth Weevils (ufl.edu)
Florida Bull Test 2014–2015
Authors: Sanford Carla D. , Lamb G. Cliff , DiLorenzo Nicolas
Published: January 2023

The 2014-2015 Florida Bull Test concluded with the evaluation of 103 bulls. The test assessed the performance potential and breeding soundness of bulls consigned to the program at the UF/IFAS North Florida Research and Education Center (NFREC). This 9-page fact sheet covers the test procedures, feed efficiency assessment, test rules and regulations, health requirements, test results, and sale summary. Written by Carla D. Sanford, G. Cliff Lamb, and Nicolas DiLorenzo, and published by the UF Department of Animal Sciences, June 2016.
Implications of Round Bale Dimensions on Hay Use
Authors: Hersom Matt , Thrift Todd , Yelich Joel
Published: January 2023

The dimensions of large round bales make a difference in many cases. Bale size determines the amount of hay in a purchased bale, the amount of nutrients in pounds, and the extent of spoilage during storage and feeding. Large round bales, the predominant form of hay made and fed to cattle, are under discussion. This 3-page fact sheet is a new document that examines the significance of bale dimensions, volume, density, and weight as well as the relationship of these factors to hay prices. Written by Matt Hersom, Todd Thrift, and Joel Yelich, and published by the UF Department of Animal Sciences, June 2016.
AN326/AN326: Implications of Round Bale Dimensions on Hay Use (ufl.edu)
How the Veterinary Feed Directive Affects Cattle Owners
Authors: Hersom Matt , Thrift Todd , Yelich Joel
Published: January 2023

The Veterinary Feed Directive (VRD) is a federal regulation from the Food and Drug Administration that will change the additives that can be included in animal feed, the ways in which cattle producers manage their animals and veterinarians interact with cattle owners, and the products available for use on the ranch. This 3-page fact sheet provides an overview of the new regulation’s nature, functions, requirements, and implications for cattle owners. Written by Matt Hersom, Todd Thrift, and Joel Yelich, and published by the UF Department of Animal Sciences, July 2016. 
AN327/AN327: How the Veterinary Feed Directive Affects Cattle Owners (ufl.edu)
2019–2020 Florida Citrus Production Guide: Best Management Practices for Soil-Applied Agricultural Chemicals
Authors: Kapyampakeni Davie M. , Duncan Larry W.
Published: January 2023

This 3-page fact sheet is part of the 2019–2020 Florida Citrus Production Guide. Written by Davie M. Kadyampakeni and Larry W. Duncan, and published by the Horticultural Sciences Department, March 2019.
HS-185/CG027: 2022–2023 Florida Citrus Production Guide: Best Management Practices for Soil-Applied Agricultural Chemicals (ufl.edu)
2018–2019 Florida Citrus Production Guide: Fertilizer Application Methods
Authors: Morgan Kelly T. , Kadyampakeni Davie M. , Zekri Mongi , Schumann Arnold W. , Vashisth Tripti , Boman Brian , Obreza Thomas A.
Published: January 2023

This 3-page fact sheet is part of the 2018–2019 Florida Citrus Production Guide. Written by K. T. Morgan, D. M. Kadyampakeni, M. Zekri, A. W. Schumann, T. Vashisth, B. Boman, and T. A. Obreza, and published by the Agronomy Department, January 2019.
CMG14/CG092: 2022–2023 Florida Citrus Production Guide: Fertilizer Application Methods (ufl.edu)
2018 Vegetable Production Guide Chapter 6: Cole Crop Production
Authors: Zotarelli Lincoln , Dittmar Peter J. , Ozores-Hampton Monica , Dufault Nicholas S. , Wells Bonnie , Desaeger Johan , Noling Joseph W. , McAvoy Eugene J. , Wang Qingren , Miller Christian F.
Published: January 2023

This 21-page fact sheet is chapter 6 of the 2018 Vegetable Production Handbook. Written by Lincoln Zotarelli, Peter J. Dittmar, Monica Ozores-Hampton, Nicholas S. Dufault, Bonnie Wells, Johan Desaeger, Joseph W. Noling, Eugene J. McAvoy, Qingren Wang, and Christian F. Miller, and published by the Horticultural Sciences Department, 2018.
HS724/CV122: Chapter 6. Cole Crop Production (ufl.edu)
2018 Vegetable Production Handbook Chapter 13: Pepper Production
Authors: Ozores-Hampton Monica , Boyd Nathan S. , McAvoy Eugene J. , Miller Christian F. , Desaeger Johan , Noling Joseph W. , Vallad Gary E.
Published: January 2023

This 33-page fact sheet is chapter 13 of the 2018 Vegetable Production Handbook. Written by Monica Ozores-Hampton, Nathan S. Boyd, Eugene J. McAvoy, Christian F. Miller, Johan Desaeger, Joseph W. Noling, and Gary E. Vallad, and published by Horticultural Sciences Department, 2018.
HS732/CV130: Chapter 13. Pepper Production (ufl.edu)
2018 Vegetable Production Handbook Chapter 10: Minor Vegetable Crop Production
Authors: Miller Christian F. , Wang Qingren , Kanissery Ramdas , McAvoy Eugene J. , Ozores-Hampton Monica , Raid Richard N. , Snodgrass Crystal A. , Beuzelin Julien , Seal Dakshina R. , Whidden Alicia J. , Zhang Shouan
Published: January 2023

This 34-page fact sheet is chapter 10 of the 2018 Vegetable Production Handbook. Written by Christian F. Miller, Qingren Wang, Ramdas Kanissery, Eugene J. McAvoy, Monica Ozores-Hampton, Richard N. Raid, Crystal A. Snodgrass, Julien Beuzelin, Dakshina R. Seal, Alicia J. Whidden, and Shouan Zhang, and published by the Horticultural Sciences Department, 2018.
CV294/CV294: Chapter 10. Minor Vegetable Crop Production (ufl.edu)
10 Common Palms of the Tampa Bay Area
Authors: Hasing Gitta , Koeser Andrew K. , Friedman Melissa H. , Broschat Timothy K.
Published: January 2023

Palms often serve as key specimens in urban landscape designs. Despite this, their identity is often unknown to Florida’s new, seasonal, and even long-term residents. This 10-page fact sheet serves as a quick reference for some of the most common palms found in North and Central Florida and the Tampa Bay Area in particular. Written by Gitta Hasing, Andrew K. Koeser, Melissa H. Friedman, and Timothy K. Broschat, and published by the Environmental Horticulture Department, June 2016.
ENH1245/EP506: 10 Common Palms of the Tampa Bay Area (ufl.edu)
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Approach to Pest Management in Your Edible Landscape
Authors: McIntyre Tina , Gutner Rachel , Cohen Hamutahl , Silvasy Tiare , Momol Esen
Published: January 2023

This new 8-page publication of the UF/IFAS Environmental Horticulture Department defines different types of pests that a home gardener might encounter and encourages diversifying landscapes as a solution to pest problems. It focuses on what is called “the triangle” of IPM, a guide to managing pests using multiple methods, and provides examples of Integrated Pest Management tools that can be applied in the home context to address these pests. Several links to resources relevant to edible Florida-Friendly landscapes are included. Written by Tina McIntyre, Rachel Gutner, Hamutahl Cohen, Tiare Silvasy, and Esen Momol.https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep629
Coral Reef Conservation Strategies for Everyone
Authors: Lohr Kathryn E. , Patterson Joshua T.
Published: January 2023

Corals are small animals related to jellyfish. Large groups of these animals live together and form huge interconnected colonies called reefs. Coral reefs are some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet; an essential habitat for a wide variety of animal and plant species. About 400 million people rely on coral reef fish as a source of protein; about 6 million people make a living by catching and selling coral reef fish and invertebrates; tourism activities like SCUBA diving and snorkeling provide revenue of US $9.6 billion per year; and reefs reduce wave energy by 97%, helping to protect 197 million people in coastal areas from beach erosion, wave energy, and flooding. Learn how you can help protect these fragile, essential ecosystems from threats in this 7-page fact sheet written by Kathryn E. Lohr and Joshua T. Patterson, and published by the Program in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, School of Forest Resources and Conservation, September 2016.
FA199/FA199: Coral Reef Conservation Strategies for Everyone (ufl.edu)
Candidate Species for Florida Aquaculture: American Horseshoe Crab Limulus polyphemus
Authors: Donnarumma Lena , Scharf Brittany J. , Hill Jeffrey E. , Ohs Cortney L.
Published: January 2023

The American horseshoe crab, Limulus polyphemus, is a member of the phylum Arthropoda, subphylum Chelicerata, and class Merostomata. Although there are four horseshoe crab species worldwide, the American horseshoe crab is primarily found in the Atlantic Ocean along the East Coast of North America. The species ranges from Maine to Mexico, but is absent between Texas in the United States and Tabasco in Mexico. They mainly inhabit estuarine areas; however, juveniles and adults can venture into the shallow oceanic environments. Embryo development occurs in the intertidal zone of sandy beaches. Sandy or muddy bottom habitats are necessary for burrowing and benthic feeding. This publication will cover their natural history, aquaculture techniques, common diseases, and their uses and markets.
Decline of the US Cucumber and Squash Industry
Authors: Wu Feng , Guan Zhengfei , Huang Kuan-Ming
Published: January 2023

The US production of cucumbers and squash has been declining over the last two decades while imports have grown significantly. In particular, imports from Mexico have surpassed US domestic production and have become a major source of cucumber and squash supply in the US market. This publication provides a comprehensive overview of cucumber and squash production and trade to help policymakers, business communities, and researchers understand the structural changes in the market.
Cost and Profitability Estimates for Producing Lychee (Litchi chinensis) in South and Central Florida
Authors: Blare Trent , Ballen Fredy H. , Haley Nicholas , Contreras Victor , Crane Jonathan H. , Carrillo Daniel
Published: January 2023

Florida is one of three US states (the other two being California and Hawaii) that have the climatic conditions to cultivate lychee. Given the growing consumer demand for this crop, the production of lychee has the potential to be a profitable crop for Florida growers. This publication estimates the costs and returns associated with operating a lychee grove in south and central Florida. It presents the results of field interviews with lychee growers and industry experts. Growers on average can expect to earn nearly $8,000 an acre per year from lychee production when there is a harvest, but climate variation causes inconsistent harvests. When making production decisions, growers must also consider increasing pressure from pests such as the lychee erinose mite, and strong foreign competition.
Improving, Restoring, and Managing Natural Resources on Rural Properties in Florida: Sources of Financial Assistance
Authors: Demers Chris , Main Martin B. , Hostetler Mark E.
Published: January 2023

Interested in conserving natural resources, such as wildlife habitat, or protecting the agricultural heritage of your land? Both federal and state governments have technical and financial assistance programs to help rural landowners achieve natural resource goals. These challenges are addressed through land rentals, technical assistance, cost-shares, and incentive payments and include both time-limited and permanent land-use options. This revised 8-page fact sheet informs landowners about government programs available to help conserve natural resources. Written by Chris Demers, Martin B. Main, and Mark E. Hostetler, and published by the UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation, November 2016.
SS-FOR-23/FR156: Improving, Restoring, and Managing Natural Resources on Rural Properties in Florida: Sources of Financial Assistance (ufl.edu)
Vida Saludable: Fuentes de información sobre la diabetes
Authors: Bobroff Linda B.
Published: January 2023

Muchos recursos sobre la diabetes se encuentra en línea.
This revised 2-page fact sheet provides a list of resources with information on diabetes. Written by Linda B. Bobroff, and published by the UF Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences, October 2016.
Art of Goodbye: Communication Considerations
Authors: Smith Suzanna D. , Spence Lynda , Tafelski Chelsea
Published: January 2023

People are frequently at a loss for the best way to begin a discussion about end-of-life concerns with loved ones and health care providers, and are also unsure of the topics they should cover. Nonetheless, conversations about end-of-life care and advance directives can help ensure that the person’s wishes are honored. These measures also eliminate much of the difficult decision-making that loved ones typically face at the time of their loved ones’ passing. This 5-page fact sheet, which is part of a series entitled The Art of Goodbye: End of Life Education series, discusses the barriers to discussing the end of life and the process of communication with loved ones and health care providers. Written by Suzanna Smith, Lynda Spence, and Chelsea Tafelski, and published by the UF Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences, October 2016. 
FCS3339/FY1470: The Art of Goodbye: Communication Considerations (ufl.edu)
Luffa—an Asian Vegetable Emerging in Florida
Authors: Xie Yucong , Liu Guodong , Li Yuncong , Migliaccio Katie
Published: January 2023

Luffa is the genus name of several tropical and subtropical plants in the cucumber family. Alternatively spelled “Loofa” or “Loofah,” the name is derived from the plant’s use as a material for sponges and dish cloths for bathing and cleaning dishes. This 6-page fact sheet describes the two types of Luffa, how to cultivate them, and what they can be used for. Written by Yucong Xie, Guodong Liu, Yuncong Li, and Kati Migliaccio, and published by the Horticultural Sciences Department, September 2016.
HS1285/HS1285: Luffa—an Asian Vegetable Emerging in Florida (ufl.edu)
2017–2018 Florida Citrus Production Guide: Fresh Fruit Pesticide Residue Limits
Authors: Ritenour Mark A.
Published: January 2023

Current citrus production practices often include the use of various chemicals, many of which are pesticides. Chemical residues on the fruit after harvest are a concern to regulators and the public alike because of their potential negative health effects. Therefore, the US and other countries set maximum residue limits (MRLs) on fresh produce for various chemicals. This 5-page document is part of the 2017-2018 Florida Citrus Production Guide and discusses the MRLs for various chemicals used on Florida citrus. Written by Mark Ritenour and published by UF’s Horticultural Sciences Department, July 2017.
HS1301/HS1301: 2022–2023 Florida Citrus Production Guide: Fresh Fruit Pesticide Residue Limits (ufl.edu)
2018-2019 Florida Citrus Production Guide: Grove Planning and Establishment
Authors: Zekri Mongi , Albrecht Ute , Vincent Christopher
Published: January 2023

Many factors need to be considered when preparing for new tree plantings. Careful planning and preparation is necessary to ensure success and reduced frustrations in the future. Site selection, rootstock and scion selection, planting density, quality of trees, tree planting, irrigation, nutrition, and disease control are all important factors that contribute to success of new grove establishment. This 3-page fact sheet is part of the 2018-2019 Florida Citrus Production Guide. Written by Mongi Zekri, Ute Albrecht, and Christopher Vincent, and published by the Horticultural Sciences Department, May 2018.
HS1302/HS1302: 2022–2023 Florida Citrus Production Guide: Grove Planning and Establishment (ufl.edu)
Growing Plums in Florida
Authors: Sarkhosh Ali , Olmstead Mercy , Miller E. P. , Andersen Peter C. , Williamson Jeffrey G.
Published: January 2023

Plums could be a potential crop for growers and homeowners in Florida and other mild winter areas throughout the Gulf coast, but many plum varieties from the west coast will not consistently perform well enough in Florida to produce fruit. However, the University of Florida's stone fruit breeding program has developed cultivars that improve the potential for growing plums in Florida and other mild winter areas that have high disease pressure. These cultivars are recommended for trial in Florida. The names of all University of Florida plum cultivars begin with the prefix 'Gulf.' These cultivars are Japanese type plums (Prunus salicina Lindl.) and have resistance to plum leaf scald (Xylella fastidiosa) and bacterial spot (Xanthomonas campestris). Fruit size is satisfactory (about 1½ to 2 inches in diameter) with good fruit quality. They ripen in early to late May, approximately two weeks before plums from other areas arrive in the marketplace. This 13-page publication is a minor revision written by A. Sarkhosh, M. Olmstead, E. P. Miller, P. C. Andersen, and J. G. Williamson, and publsihed by the Horticultural Sciences Department, September 2018.
HS895/HS250: Growing Plums in Florida (ufl.edu)
Pest Information Guide: Six-Spotted Thrips Scolothrips sexmaculatus (Pergande)
Authors: Cluever Jeffrey D. , Smith Hugh A.
Published: January 2023

This publication is part of the Pest Identification Guides series, which was created to help growers and crop consultants, private homeowners, Master Gardeners, and the general public identify common arthropod pests and the damage they inflict. Each field guide provides photos of the important life stages and crop damage associated with arthropod pests. The text highlights key general morphology and biology, distribution, and natural enemies. Written by Jeffrey Cluever and Hugh Smith, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, July 2016.
ENY-985/IN1138: Pest Information Guide: Six-Spotted Thrips Scolothrips sexmaculatus (Pergande) (ufl.edu)