bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conversion ratios for opioid switching: a pragmatic study
Authors: Mercadante Sebastiano , Adile Claudio , Ferrera Patrizia , Grassi Yasmine , Cascio Alessio Lo , Casuccio Alessandra
Published: August 2022

Background: The final conversion ratios among opioids used for successful switching are unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the initial and final conversion ratios used for a successful opioid switching in cancer patients, and eventual associated factors.Methods: Ninety-five patients who were successfully switched were evaluated. The following data were collected: age, gender, Karnofsky performance score, primary cancer, cognitive function, the presence of neuropathic, and incident pain. Opioids, route of administration, and their doses expressed in oral morphine equivalents used before OS, were recorded as well as opioids use for starting opioid switching, and at time of stabilization. Physical and psychological symptoms were routinely evaluated by Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale.Results: No statistical changes were observed between the initial conversion ratios and those achieved at time of stabilization for all the sequences of opioid switching. When considering patients switched to methadone, there was no association between factors taken into considerations.Conclusion: Opioid switching is a highly effective and safe technique, improving analgesia and reducing the opioid-related symptom burden. The final conversion ratios were not different from those used for starting opioid switching. Patients receiving higher doses of opioids should be carefully monitored for individual and unexpected responses in an experienced palliative care unit, particularly those switched to methadone. Future studies should provide data regarding the profile of patients with difficult pain to be hospitalized.
Hypertension and associated factors in HIV-infected patients receiving antiretroviral treatment in Burundi: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Harimenshi Déo , Niyongabo Théodore , Preux Pierre-Marie , Aboyans Victor , Desormais Ileana
Published: August 2022

Background: Nowadays, the life expectancy of people living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and people in general population, are comparable. Hypertension is a major public health issue in Africa, largely underdiagnosed. In addition, higher rates of hypertension are reported in HIV-infected persons, especially when under anti-retroviral therapy (ART). The aim of our study was to determine the prevalence of hypertension and associated factors among HIV-infected adults in Burundi, treated by ART.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among HIV-infected subjects older than age of 20, managed in 5 healthcare centers of people living with HIV (PLWH). The questionnaire and anthropometric measurements of the World Health Organization STEPWISE survey were used. Blood pressure was measured according to the ESC 2018 recommendations. Results: 1250 HIV-infected patients were included (18.4% men), mean age 42.8±7.4 years. The prevalence of hypertension was 17.4% (95% CI: 13.2-22.1). Almost 47.25 % of HIV patients with hypertension were previously undiagnosed. In multivariate analysis, factors associated with HTN were overweight (OR: 2.88; 95% CI: 1.46-5.62) and obesity (OR: 2.65; 95% CI: 1.27-5.55), longer duration of HIV infection: ≥ 10 years (OR: 1.04; 95% CI: 1.14-3.20), diabetes (OR: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.37-3. 32) and age (OR: 1.13; 95% CI: 1.09-1.14).ConclusionsDespite their young age, almost 20% of patients with ART-treated HIV had hypertension, among whom 50% were undiagnosed. Blood pressure monitoring is of major importance among these patients, especially among those identified at high-risk, with prompt life- and disability-saving interventions.
Experimental investigation on the influence of swirl ratio on tornado-like flow fields by varying updraft radius and inflow angle
Authors: Zhang Yumeng , Wang Yanlei , Lv Pengfei , Wang Bo
Published: August 2022

The swirl ratio is recognized as the most critical parameter for determining the tornado-like vortex. Many laboratory simulators have studied the effect of swirl ratio by changing the angle of entry flow, but there is a lack of research on the updraft radius. Therefore, a laboratory tornado simulator was designed, constructed and tested to generate tornado-like vortices. Different from the existing tornado simulator, this simulator allows to change the updraft radius. And, the effects of various swirl ratio caused by the updraft radius and the angle of entry flow on the tornado-like vortices were investigated, in terms of the dual-celled vortex transformation and vortex wandering. It was found the effects of the updraft radius and the angle of turning vanes on the tornado-like vortices are quite different, and the formation of dual-celled vortex are more sensitive to the updraft radius, because a larger angular momentum and axial pressure gradient can be provided. In addition, increasing the updraft radius has a greater inhibitory effect on the vortex wandering phenomenon compared to the angle of the turning vanes due to the flow fluctuations induced by turbulence.
A Study regarding Parental Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) among Antibiotic Use in Children in Henan Province of China
Authors: Ma Weifeng , Huang Chunzhi , Wang Cailian , Liu Qinglan , Zhao Qinghe , Ren Yanli
Published: August 2022

Aim
Inappropriate antibiotic use leads to AMR. This research targets to learn about Henan Province parental knowledge, attitude and practice regarding antibiotic use in their children.
Materials and methods
During the October through December 2020, Henan Maternal and Child Health Hospital's hospitalized parents participated in a cross-sectional questionnaire survey. The study was evaluated using logistic regression analysis.
Results
In general, parents were less knowledgeable about the following topics: antibacterial medications are not anti-inflammatory medications; scientists cannot always discover new drugs; colds and viral infections cannot be treated with antibacterial medications; and the combined effects of antibacterial medications are not always superior. The respective awareness rates were 40.83%, 28.37%, 57.09%, 39.10%, and 59.52%. For the attitude, a little of parents still had misconceptions. In total, 10.73% parents were willing to use antibiotics, 16.61% believed that expensive antibiotics would be more effective, 45.68% parents didn’t agree the doctor's treatment plan, 14.19% parents would be dissatisfied of no antibacterial drugs, 10.73% parents believed they understood antibiotics well, just only 57.79% parents were correct in their understanding of broad-spectrum antibiotics.
Conclusions
Parental knowledge of antimicrobial agents in Henan Province is good, but some problems persist. Government departments and medical institutions at all levels must continue to strengthen the conduct of antibacterial drug knowledge propaganda of parents for the prevention of bacterial drug resistance.
A Comprehensive Intensity Index and Its Application for Summertime Extratropical Cyclones in East Asia
Authors: wang sitao , Qin Yujing , Lu Chuhan , Guan Zhaoyong
Published: August 2022

The intensity definition and classification of the extratropical cyclone (EC) are still less studied than the tropical cyclone, due to the relatively ambiguous structure and diverse life cycle of ECs. In this study, a two-dimensional objective cyclone identification method based on outermost closed isolines is used to obtain the extratropical cyclones related datasets, and the summertime ECs in East Asia are classified by the relationship between ECs of different intensities and the corresponding precipitation. The results show that compared with the cyclone central pressure, central wind and other traditional intensity indicators, the cyclone comprehensive intensity index that is the maximum product of the EC-associated wind speed and specific humidity (vqmax), has the highest correlation with the EC-associated maximum precipitation (r = 0.74). To simplify the definition of cyclone intensity index, the vqmax within the radius of 300 km from the cyclone center (vqmax_300) is defined as the comprehensive cyclone intensity. According to the vqmax_300, the ECs in East Asia are classified into four levels. Accordingly, the EC-associated maximum precipitation increases substantially with the raising of cyclone level. In particular, 32.8% of heavy rain events in East Asia in summer are related to level-4 cyclones. Among these level-4 cyclones, the frequencies of mesoscale ECs (radius < 150 km), sub-synoptic scale ECs (150 km < radius < 500 km) and synoptic scale ECs (radius > 500 km) are 0.45%, 48.47% and 51.09%, respectively.
Identification of low temperature inducible genes of Lactuca sativa by using suppression subtractive hybridization method
Authors: Honjoh Ken-ichi , Okano Hitomi , Sasaki Mika , Kurokawa Masaru , Kimura Taiki , Shibata Kyosuke , Masuda Yoshimitsu , Miyamoto Takahisa
Published: August 2022

Lettuce ( Lactuca sativa ) is one of important vegetables taken as raw state. It is expected to be kept as high quality under low temperature conditions, especially freezing state. However, there are few research regarding to its molecular response to abiotic stress of lettuce. As we reported previously, lettuce plants acquire low levels of freeze tolerance. In the present paper, we have isolated 192 cDNA clones corresponding to cold induced genes of lettuce plant by using a PCR-based suppression subtractive hybridization method. Most clones were categorized into 62 distinct known genes based on homology search. Out of the corresponding genes, 45 genes were confirmed to be low-temperature-inducible with reverse transcription-qPCR. Some of the genes encoded stress-related proteins, such as late embryogenesis abundant proteins including dehydrin, which were expected to be involved in enhancement of freezing tolerance. On the other hand, some of proteins encoded by genes were suspected to be involved in suppressing the enhancement of freezing tolerance, such as vacuolar processing enzyme (VPE), adagio protein, and gigantea-like protein. In particular, VPE have been reported to be associated with program cell death, suggesting that it is negatively involved in freezing tolerance of lettuce.
The influence of CAD model continuity on accuracy and productivity of CNC machining
Authors: Kučera David , Linkeova Ivana , Stejskal Michal
Published: August 2022

Efficient and productive manufacturing of freeform shapes requires a suitable three-dimensional CAD model at the entrance to the CAM system. The paper deals with the impact of NURBS or B-spline CAD model geometric continuity on the accuracy and productivity of 5-axis ball-end milling of freeform surfaces. The relationships between a different order of CAD model geometric continuity and the quality of the toolpath generated in CAM system is analysed and demonstrated on example of Blisk blade profile. In order to reveal the pure effect of CAD geometry on the quality of the machined surface, linear interpolation of individual positions of CL points is considered and no further smoothing of the toolpath is applied. In addition to the commonly used indicator of toolpath quality represented by the distance of CL points, the discrete curvature of a toolpath in a form of a piecewise linear discrete curve is introduced and its dependence on the curvature and continuity of the underlying CAD model is demonstrated. It is shown that the higher order of CAD model geometric continuity significantly eliminates sharp changes in the distance of CL points and smoothes the discrete curvature of the toolpath. Finally, it is experimentally verified that increasing the continuity of the CAD model from G0 to G3, while maintaining the same cutting conditions, leads to an increase in workpiece accuracy and a reduction in machining time, without the need to smooth the toolpath generated in the CAM system.
The HASEL actuator’s muscle mimicking mechanism for enacting an upper limb smart prosthesis: A review on recent progress and challenges for future implementation
Authors: Anjum Mohammad Navid
Published: August 2022

Biomimicry is the method of adapting concepts from nature to produce more sustainable technologies for mankind. It is of particular interest to the biomedical soft robotic field specifically applied to smart prostheses. Unlike the typical prostheses that employs metal and geared actuators, a biomimicking smart prosthesis emphasizes on the use of highly complaint soft biocompatible materials. A recent advancement in this field is a biomimicking soft actuator known as the HASEL (Hydraulically Amplified Self-healing ELectrostatic) actuator. They represent a leap forward in the soft robotics field as they showcase many similarities with human muscles to the point that the actuator could easily be extended while in place. This paper reviews the susceptibility of the HASEL actuators for upper-limb smart prosthesis. We first reviewed the structural analysis of HASELs followed by their prevailing control system mechanisms. Finally, we concluded the paper by discussing the challenges for HASEL to be used as a smart prosthesis limiting to the upper-limb scenario.
CMFCUNet: Cascaded multi-scale feature calibration UNet for pancreas segmentation
Authors: Qiu Chengjian , Song Yuqing , Liu Zhe , Yin Jing , Han Kai , Liu Yi
Published: August 2022

Segmenting the pancreas from abdominal CT scans is challenging since it often takes up a relatively small region. Researchers suggested leveraging coarse-to-fine approaches to cope with this challenge. However, the coarse-scaled segmentation and the fine-scaled segmentation are either trained separately utilizing the coordinates located by the coarse-scaled segmentation mask to crop the fine-scaled segmentation input, or trained jointly utilizing the coarse-scaled segmentation mask to enhance the fine-scaled segmentation input. We argued that these two solutions are complementary to some extent and can promote each other to improve the performance of pancreas segmentation. In addition, the backbone in the coarse-scaled segmentation and fine-scaled segmentation is mostly based on UNet or UNet-like networks, where the multi-scale features transmitted from the encoder to the decoder have not been explored for vertical calibration before. In this paper, we propose a cascaded multi-scale feature calibration UNet (CMFCUNet) for pancreas segmentation where the multi-scale features in the backbone of each scaled segmentation are calibrated vertically in a pixel-wise fashion. Besides, the coarse-scaled segmentation and the fine-scaled segmentation are connected by leveraging a designed dual enhancement module (DEM). Experiments are conducted on the public NIH pancreas dataset. First, when leveraging CMFCUNet, our method increased by over 3% on the Jaccard index (JI) and nearly 1% on dice similarity coefficient (DSC) which surpasses all existing pancreas segmentation approaches. In addition, our experiments demonstrate that CMFCUNet improved the coarse-to-fine segmentation framework and outperformed the mainstream coarse-to-fine pancreas segmentation approaches. Furthermore, we also conducted ablation studies to analyze the effectiveness of the backbone (MFCUNet) and the DEM.
Introduction and Comparison of Novel Decentral Learning Schemes with Multiple Data Pools for Privacy-preserving ECG Classification
Authors: Baumgartner Martin , Veeranki Sai , Hayn Dieter , Schreier Günter
Published: August 2022

Purpose: Artificial intelligence and machine learning have led to prominent and spectacular innovations in various scenarios. Application in medicine, however, can be challenging due to privacy concerns and strict legal regulations. Methods that centralize knowledge instead of data could address this issue. Methods: In this work, 6 different decentralized machine learning algorithms are applied to 12-lead ECG classification and compared to conventional, centralized machine learning. Results: The results show that state-of-the-art federated learning leads to reasonable losses of classification performance compared to a standard, central model (-0.054 AUROC) while providing a significantly higher level of privacy. A proposed weighted variant of federated learning (-0.049 AUROC) and an ensemble (-0.035 AUROC) outperformed the standard federated learning algorithm. Overall, considering multiple metrics, the novel batch-wise sequential learning scheme performed best (-0.036 AUROC to baseline). Conclusion: Although, the technical aspects of implementing them in a real-world application are to be carefully considered, the described algorithms constitute a way forward towards preserving-preserving AI in medicine.
Sacubitril/Valsartan Reverses Cardiac Structure and Function in Experimental Model of Hypertension-Induced Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Jeremic Jovana , Bradic Jovana , Milosavljevic Isidora , Srejo Ivan , Srejo Vladimir Zivkovic , Jeremic Nevena , Turnic Tamara Nikolic , Tanaskovic Irena , Bolevich Stefani , Jakovljevic Vladimir , Bolevich Sergey , Zivanovic Marko N , Okwose Nduka , Seklic Dragana , Milivojevic Nevena , Grujic Jelena , Velicki Lazar , MacGowan Guy , Jakovljevic Djordje G , Filipovic Nenad
Published: August 2022

This study evaluated the effect of sacubtril/valsartan on cardiac remodeling, molecular and cellular adaptations in experimental (rat) model of hypertension-induced hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Thirty Wistar Kyoto rats; 10 normal (control) and 20 rats with confirmed hypertension-induced hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HpCM) were used for this study. The HpCM group was further subdivided into untreated, and sacubitril/valsartan treated group. Myocardial structure and function were assessed using echocardiography, Langendorff’s isolated heart experiment, blood sampling and qualitative polymerase chain reaction. Left ventricular internal diameter in systole (0.5 vs 0.22 cm, P < 0.01) and diastole (0.82 vs 0.50 cm, P < 0.01) were greater in treated compared to untreated HpCM rats. Interventricular septal wall thickness in end-systole was higher in untreated and treated HpCM rats compared to controls (0.22 vs 0.20 vs 0.16 cm, P < 0.05 respectively). Fractional shortening was lower in treated compared to untreated rats (34% vs 43%, P < 0.01). Systolic and diastolic blood pressures decreased by 58 and 37 mmHg (P < 0.01) respectively in treated compared to untreated rats. Similarly, sacubitril/valsartan treatment reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis (reduced expression of Bax and Cas3 genes) compared to untreated rats. There was a regular histomorphology of cardiomyocytes, interstitium, and blood vessels in treated rats compared to untreated HpCM rats which expressed hypertrophic cardiomyocytes, with polymorphic nuclei, prominent nucleoli and moderately dilated interstitium. In experimental model of hypertension-induced hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, sacubitril/valsartan treatment led to improved cardiac structure, haemodynamic performance, and reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis. Sacubitril/valsartan thus presents as a potential therapeutic strategy resulted in hypertension-induced hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
WITHDRAWN: Mitochondrial ribosomal protein L12 potentiates hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating mitochondrial biogenesis and metabolic reprogramming
Authors: Liu Yi , Hou Shaoshuai , Zhang Bo , Zhu Suwei , Lv Tingting , Ji Xingzhao , Zhang Yu , Ding Can , Su Tong , Yang Xiaoli , Sun Shengnan , Yang Zhen , Wan Qiang
Published: August 2022

Background: Mitochondrial dysfunction and metabolic reprogramming are the key features of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, the detailed mechanism has not yet been clarified. Mitochondrial ribosomal protein L12 (MRPL12) has been implicated in transcription in human mitochondria. Although the function of MRPL12 has been documented, the role of abnormal MRPL12 expression in HCC remains unknown. Here, we determined the clinical significance, functional implications, and mechanisms underlying the effects of MRPL12 in HCC. Methods: Human HCC obtain from patients was used to evaluate the role of MRPL12 in HCC. For evaluating tumor behavior, we used cell culture for in vitro experiments and for in vivo experiments we used mouse HCC xenograft model. Further we used tissue microarray, immunohistochemistry, flowcytometry, Transwell assay, and CCK-8 assay, mitochondrial DNA copy number quantification methods, and seahorse assay to clarify our hypothesis. Results: Significant upregulation of MRPL12 in patients with HCC correlated with aggressive tumor behavior and poor prognosis. MRPL12 knockdown in HCC cells attenuated cell proliferation and migration in vitro, and tumorigenicity in vivo. We observed that MRPL12 is essential for mitochondrial homeostasis. Gain- and loss-of-function of MRPL12 in HCC altered oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), mitochondrial DNA content, and HCC cell proliferation and invasion. Overall, MRPL12 might play oncogenic role by activating mitochondrial OXPHOS and promoting mitochondrial biosynthesis. Yin Yang 1 (YY1) transcriptionally regulated MRPL12 expression, and YY1 knockdown inhibited MRPL12 activity and suppressed HCC cell proliferation and metastasis. The role of the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)-AKT-mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway in regulating MRPL12 was confirmed. We hypothesize that the PI3K/mTOR-YY1-MRPL12 axis orchestrates HCC cell proliferation and metastasis. Conclusion: Our study provides insights into MRPL12 signaling in HCC and highlights MRPL12 as a potential therapeutic target.Trial registration: N/A.
Health risk assessment and cost-benefit analysis of agricultural soil remediation for tailing dam failure in Jinding mining area, SW China
Authors: Xu Zhongyu , Ito Lisa , Muchangos Leticia Sarmento dos , Tokai Akihiro
Published: August 2022

The impact of the tailing dams and the economic feasibility of the remediation process is significant for future risk management for tailing dams. In this research, we develop a hypothetical failure scenario for a tailing dam in the Jinding mining area, Southwest China. We assess the exposure with the Geo-Environmental Risk Assessment System, tier-1 model, and health impact with Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALY). Cost and benefit are also analyzed for the following cleanup process. The result shows that the exposure dose (mg/kg-BW/d) of As, Cd, and Pb right after the dam failure is 1.07×10− 2 for As; 1.76×10− 4 for Cd; and 5.68×10− 3 for Pb, respectively. The DALY caused by heavy metal exposure is 2.63×10− 2 DALY per year, which significantly exceeds the tolerable level. This indicates that the tailing dam failure will pose a high health risk to the residents, and remediation is necessary. After remediation, the DALY is 1.24×10− 8 DALY per year, indicating the cleanup process effectively reduces the resident’s health impact. From the financial point of view, the net present value of the cleanup is $-1.02×107. This indicates that the cleanup process is not economically feasible. Sensitivity analysis shows that the amount of released tailing influences the output result. The time span for benefit estimation is also an important issue. This research shows that the impact of a tailing dam failure will be severe, and remediation may be effective but economically infeasible. Therefore, preventing tailing dam failure is the most crucial task for the local government.
Management of Gingival Hyperpigmentation by scalpel surgery and Bur abrasion.
Authors: kotb shaymaa
Published: August 2022

Natural Smile is the key to beauty . Dark gum is the most aesthetic problem that affects the smile of a large group of people especially those with high smile lines . These dark gingiva are considered natural melanin pigments contributing to the endogenous pigmentation of the gingiva . Aesthetics dentistry is a crucial and challenging era for all dentists.The gingival depigmentation procedure is a plastic periodontal surgery in which the gingival epithelium is scrapped with different techniques to remove the dark colour of the gingiva. The aim of this study was to shed light on the treatment modalities of gingival hyperpigmentation using scalpal surgery and/or bur abrasion techniques.Objective: The main concern of all dentists is to help patients feel satisfaction and self-confidence while talking and smiling. Treatment modalities for this condition include the surgical scalpel method ,cryotherapy ,electrotherapy and laser irradiation . In the present case series,the scraping technique was used which is simple, effective, and yields good results along with good patient satisfaction.Methods: Gingival depigmentation of a 19-year-old female patient was performed under local anesthesia with the scraping technique using a 15 no. Bard-Parker blade and in another case using a diamond bur at high speed for depigmentation .Discussion: The advantages of the procedure show psychological satisfaction to the patient. This case report describes the procedure for depigmentation of gingiva by surgical intervention which was successful and the patient was satisfied with the resultConclusion: Depigmentation of gingiva is a minimally invasive technique that can be performed at any dental clinic by using 15 no. The Bard-Parker blade with scraping technique which is simple, easy to perform, cost-effective, and above all, causes less discomfort and is esthetically acceptable to the patient.
Immediate dental implants, clinical,radiographic,aesthetic outcomes,advantages and disadvantages . (case report)
Authors: kotb shaymaa
Published: August 2022

Immediate implantation in fresh extraction sockets is regarded as a treatment modality that appears to give various advantages over the delayed traditional type. Thus, the aim of this case series was to assess the clinical, radiographic, and esthetic outcomes of the immediatelyplaced implants and describe some of the essential clinical factors to consider when selectingpatients for implants such as ,the thickness of socket walls, thickness of gingival drapes, and optimal position of the implant, and patient factors such as medical conditions , hygiene and smoking cessation., as well as the benefits and drawbacks of this treatment modality .Objective: to restore the normal function, aesthetics, speech, and health of patients . The ability to achieve these characteristics with the use of immediate dental implants in the rehabilitation of partially and fully edentulous jaws has become a well-established and accepted modern therapeutic modality techniqies.Methods: Immediate dental implant placement was placed at the freash extraction socket . Radiographic evaluation was performed to assess the amount of marginal bone loss, and patient assessed outcomes were also evaluated at the 6 month follow-up . All implants were successful functionally without any pain or inflammation, with optimal soft tissue health and esthetics, and with minimal radiographic marginal bone loss at the last follow-up visit (3 months after) Results : There were an excellent clinical ,radiographical and aesthetics outcomes in immediately placed implants . Conclusion: Immediate implants showed excellent results regarding implant success ,survival and esthetic outcomes with high patient satisfaction in this study. Evidence available indicates that it is a successful procedure that may benefit patients. However, careful planning and case selection are needed to ensure implant success and final esthetic outcomes.
Synchronizing Complex Networks on Time Scales: An Impulse-Quantizing multi-group Strategy
Authors: Li Luyan , Bin Honghua , Huang Zhenkun , Sun Jianqiao
Published: August 2022

This paper presents synchronization of complex network on time scales via impulse-quantizing control. A delay-partitioning group strategy is proposed and impulse-quantizing control is designed to derive theoretical criteria ensuring scale-type synchronization of complex networks. Our results show that synchronization of complex networks on time scales can be realized by controlling delay-partitioning subgroup nodes with impulsive quantization. The theoretical results give scale-limited sufficient conditions for quantized synchronization relying on control gains, impulsive intervals and delays. A numerical simulation is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Retinal and Choroidal Microvascular Changes During Pregnancy Periods Detected with Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography: A prospective study
Authors: POTA Çisil ERKAN , APAYDIN Kadri Cemil
Published: August 2022

Purpose:To investigate choroidal and retinal blood flow and thickness changes using Optic Coherence Tomography (OCT) and OCT Angiography (OCTA) during pregnancy.Methods:This prospective study included 41 eyes of 41 pregnant and 45 eyes of 45 healthy nonpregnant women. Ocular perfusion pressure (OPP), Retinal thickness (RT), choroidal thickness (CT), foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area, superficial and deep capillary plexus (SCP, DCP) vessel density(VD), choriocapillaris VD measurements were evaluated with OCT and OCTA.Results:There was no significant difference in OPP, RT, and CT during pregnancy. FAZ area increased as the gestational weeks progressed (p:0.011). The FAZ area of the first trimester was significantly lower than the control group (p:0,029). A decrease in central SCP and DCP VD in the third trimester and an increase in the choriocapillaris VD during pregnancy were detected (p:0.01, p<0.001, p<0.001 respectively). We observed an increase in mean VD for both SCP and DCP in the second trimester (p:0.02, p:0.027). In the second and third trimesters, SCP and DCP VD values werefound to be significantly higher than the control group. During the pregnancy period a significant increase was detected in choriocapillaris VD when compared to the first trimester.Conclusion:In conclusionthis is the first prospective study in the literaturethatevaluates the measurements in all trimesters of pregnancy with OCTA. We observedsignificant retinal and choroidal microvascular changes between trimesters of pregnancy and when compared with healthy women.Clinicaltrials.gov registration ID: NCT04950855 11/01/2021
A Comparative Study of Computational Fake News Detection on Social Media
Authors: Manish Manish Kumar Singh , Jawed Jawed Ahmed , Alam Mohammad Afshar Alam , Kamlesh Kamlesh Kumar Raghuvanshi , Sachin Sachin Kumar
Published: August 2022

Social media platforms has become widely popular among netizens to share views and news. This can be attributed to easy affordability of digital devices, low cost Internet and free subscription to social media platforms. Individuals find social media platforms quite appealing where they can find like-minded people to exchange views and news. Studies have shown that a less credible person is more likely to propagate fake news in order to fulfill their objectives of any form - seeking attention, gaining financial benefits or influencing political views. Hence, fake news detection on social media has become one of the most envisaged research topics in recent times. Fake news detection on social media can be done through various methods based on sources, transmission, styles, and knowledge. The major contribution of this survey paper is to provide a comparative study of major computational methods for fake news detection on social media. The objective of this study is to help researchers carry further research using the details and the research gaps presented in the paper.
Integration of Halosulfuron and Anaerobic Soil Disinfestation for Weed Control in Tomato
Authors: Singh Gursewak , Wechter William Patrick , Farmaha Bhupinder Singh , Cutulle Matthew
Published: August 2022

Anaerobic soil disinfestation (ASD) is a preplant pest management technique that involves amending the soil with a labile carbon source, irrigating the soil to stimulate decomposition, and then covering the soil with polyethylene film (polyfilm) to limit gas exchange. During the ASD process, soil microorganisms shift from aerobic to anaerobic metabolism and release phytotoxic byproducts such as organic acids and gases. Although it has been shown that these phytotoxic by-products have a negative impact on weed survival, questions remain about whether commercial-level weed control can be achieved using ASD alone or in combination with other chemicals. Greenhouse and field studies were conducted to evaluate ASD with mustard (Brassica sp.) meal, molasses, and herbicide applications for yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus) control in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). The treatments in these studies included factorial of two carbon sources [mustard meal + molasses (MMM) or no carbon amendment], three herbicide treatments [halosulfuron applied preemergence (PRE), halosulfuron applied postemergence (POST), and no herbicide] and two polyfilm treatments (polyfilm cover or polyfilm uncover). In field trials two polyfilm cover treatments were punctured and nonpunctured. Soil treatments included molasses at 14,000 L·ha−1 and mustard meal at 2100 kg·ha−1. Halosulfuron was applied at a rate of 1 oz/acre for PRE or POST applications. Greater anaerobic conditions were achieved in polyfilm cover treatments amended with MMM. In greenhouse and field trials, the most effective treatments for reducing yellow nutsedge populations were ASD with MMM or combined with halosulfuron application (PRE- or POST-ASD), which delivered significantly higher weed control than all other treatments tested or controls. In field trials, ASD with MMM caused plant growth stunting 14 d after transplantation (DAT); however, plants recovered, and stunting or injury was often not observed at 42 DAT. These studies demonstrated that ASD using MMM can be an effective strategy for reducing yellow nutsedge populations; however, the more research is needed to ensure crop safety while using ASD technology.
Effect of Citrus Rootstocks on Root Distribution and Leaf Mineral Content of ‘Orlando’ Tangelo Trees1
Authors: Castle W. S. , Krezdorn A. H.
Published: August 2022

The effect of rootstock on tree size, root distribution and leaf mineral content of ‘Orlando’ tangelos on 11 rootstocks was studied. Pronounced differences in depth of rooting, weight of feeder roots and tree height were detected. Depth of rooting was correlated to tree height, (r = .58, 1970; r = .83, 1971) i.e., the tallest trees had the deepest root systems. Feeder root wt and tree height were not related. The level of leaf N, K, Ca and Mg but not P was related to rootstock, suggesting a differential absorption of mineral nutrients by rootstock. The level of N appeared to be influenced by root distribution. Trees with deep extensive root systems or with a large number of feeder roots near the surface had high leaf N. Leaf K was significantly correlated with depth of rooting, (r = .96, 1970; r = .84, 1971). The results suggested the maximum performance of all rootstocks was not attained under the uniform cultural conditions of this experiment and therefore the need to examine each rootstock under conditions optimum for it.
14C-sucrose Translocation in Apple1
Authors: Schneider G. W.
Published: August 2022

Naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) sprays reduced 14C-sucrose translocation to developing fruit of apple. Malus pumila Mill. Temperature, cultivar, time following application of 14C-sucrose, and time interval between applications of NAA and 14C-sucrose each affected sucrose translocation. I concluded that NAA spray caused apple fruit thinning by establishing sinks in vegetative tissue that reduced metabolites reaching the fruit.
Ethephon [1,2-14C(2-chloroethyl)phosphonic acid] in Peach (Prunus persica L.) Fruits. III. Stability and Persistence1
Authors: Lavee S. , Martin George C.
Published: August 2022

In a study of the purity and stability of 1,2-14C(2-chloroethyl)phosphonic acid when used as a radioactive tracer, 3 out of 4 radioactive impurities detected were found in all standards tested. In addition, 7 other non-radioactive compounds were found in 1 of the 14C-CEPA standards. One contaminant was found to be in equilibrium with the 14C-CEPA. No contaminants were detected on GLC of the non-radioactive CEPA standard. 14C-CEPA was non-enzymatically bound to some constituents in extracts of peach fruits, cv. Halford, particularly to sugars.
Growth and Development of the Shoot, Roots, and Central Bulblet of Tulipa gesneriana L. cv. Paul Richter During Standard Forcing1
Authors: Shoub J. , De Hertogh A. A.
Published: August 2022

Using a standard forcing program for early February flowering, the histogenesis of the tulip apical meristem from the vegetative state to the differentiated, immature flower was observed with the scanning and light microscopes. Root and central bulblet development were observed only with the light microscope. Total scape and root growth were measured from initiation to anthesis. The apex was vegetative on July 21, prefloral on August 1, and reached the reproductive stage “G” on August 15. The first internode was formed by August 7 and the last internode was formed just prior to reaching stage “G”. Cell division was observed in the scape from formation until after planting at 9°C. A second phase occurred in the epidermal cells, nodal regions, and vascular bundles immediately after the plants were placed in the greenhouse. It preceded the rapid rate of cell elongation in the scape. Root initiation had commenced by late July. Root growth and differentiation continued in the basal plate until mid-September, resumed during the cold treatment, and continued after the plants were placed in the green-house. The central bulblet was initiated by early August and continued to develop throughout the forcing program.
Effect of Plant Spacing, Nitrogen, and Cultivar on Spinach (Spinicia oleracea L.) Yield and Quality1,2,3
Authors: Bradley G. A. , Sistrunk W. A. , Baker E. C. , Cash J. N.
Published: August 2022

Significant yield increases resulted when row spacing on spinach was reduced from 25.4 cm to 12.7 cm in ‘spring’, ‘overwinter’, and ‘fall’ crops. There was usually no yield advantage in in-row plant spacing closer than 5.1 cm. Color was lighter green in the fast growing ‘spring’ crops and there was more stemminess in canned ‘spring’ spinach when grown in closer row and plant spacing. These effects were not apparent in the ‘overwinter’ and ‘fall’ crops. Yield and color differences resulted from N treatments, and were related to rainfall amount and length of season. A smooth-leaved cultivar produced higher yields in the spring than a savoyed one, but in the ‘overwinter’ and ‘fall’ crops, the savoyed cultivar yielded best. Savoyed cultivars generally rated higher than smooth leaved in canning quality, primarily because of better color.
Control of Endogenous Brown Spot of Fresh Pineapple in Postharvest Handling1,2
Authors: Akamine Ernest K. , Goo Theodore , Steepy Thomas , Greidanus Theodore , Iwaoka Noboru
Published: August 2022

In Hawaii, the physiological disease of pineapple [Ananas comusus (L.) Merr. cv. Smooth Cayenne] called endogenous brown spot (EBS), occurs throughout the year. During the development of EBS there is a significant positive correlation between the number of spots and degree of darkening of spots. Correlations between number and degree of darkening of spots with pulp translucence indicated that higher pulp translucency does not necessarily camouflage the spots and thereby reduce the number as well as the degree of darkening of the spots. A heat treatment at 32.3–37.8°C for 1 day controlled EBS in fresh fruits held under refrigeration (7.2°C). In simulated shipping experiments heat treatment was effective when applied in transit in shipping containers before, during, or after refrigeration, the last being most effective. The only detrimental effect of heat treatment was increased fruit-wt loss. This was more than offset by the beneficial effect of the reduction in EBS incidence, and improvement in appearance and flavor of the pulp.
Decay Control of Peaches and Nectarines During and After Controlled Atmosphere and Air Storage1
Authors: Smith W. L. , Anderson R. E.
Published: August 2022

Decay of peaches [Prunus persica (L.) Batch] and nectarines [P. persica var nectarina (Ait.) Maxim.] held 6 days at 18.3°C was considerably higher on fruits previously stored 6 weeks in air or in 1% O2 + 5% CO2 (CA) at 0° than on those freshly harvested and held 6 days at 18.3°. Monilinia fructicola (Wint.) Honey) caused most of the decay of freshly harvested fruits, whereas Monillinia, Botrytis, Penicillium, and Alternaria species caused decay of stored fruits. Treatment in 46°C water containing 100 ppm benomyl (methyl-1-(butylcarbamoyl)-2-benzimidazole carbamate) effectively controlled decay during storage at 0° and during ripening at 18.3° without injuring the fruits. Treatment in 46° water alone partially controlled decay. Treatment in 52° water controlled decay of peaches during storage but not during ripening. This treatment severely injured peaches but not nectarines.
Resistance to Second-Brood European Corn Borer Attack in Dent Inbred ‘B52’ and in Progeny from Crosses with Four Sweet Corn Inbreds1,2
Authors: Pounders C. T. , Davis D. W. , Windels Mark B. , Chiang H. C.
Published: August 2022

Artificial infestation with egg masses to simulate severe natural second brood European corn borer, Ostrinia nubilalis (Hubner), infestation caused less stalk and stalk-associated damage in the resistant field corn inbred ‘B52’ Zea mays L. than in susceptible sweet corn inbreds. Relatively severe damage, however, occurred on and around the region of the primary ear in both ‘B52’ and the sweet inbreds. Because direct kernel damage is of paramount economic importance in sweet corn as opposed to field corn, forms of second-brood resistance in addition to that found in ‘B52’ should be sought in sweet corn improvement. For stalk tunneling and number of sheath and collar lesions the resistance of F1 and F2 progenies was intermediate between the resistance of ‘B52’ and the sweet inbreds. Although there were no parental differences in damage to the ear, F1 and F2 means showed some indication of resistance.
The Role of Leaf Shape in the Inheritance of Heading in Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)1
Authors: Bassett M. J.
Published: August 2022

Leaf index (width/length) was measured in the parental lines, F1 and F2 of the cross ‘Gallega’ (rosette type) × ‘Minetto’ (crisphead). The minimum genetic requirement for head formation in the F2 was probably a combination of 3 genes, 1 dominant and 2 recessive. However, none of the heading segregates fully recovered the ‘Minetto’ phenotype. The heading genotype of ‘Minetto’ differed from that of ‘Gallega’ by a mimimum of 3, and probably 4 or more, predominantly recessive genes. The primary effect of “heading genes” was to increase the leaf index, i.e. produce leaves which were wide at the base.
The Influence of a Reflectant on Leaf Temperature and Development of the Globe Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.)1
Authors: Basnizki J. , Evenari M.
Published: August 2022

A reflectant containing Zn and Ca among others, sprayed on the leaves of globe artichoke, increased the reflectance of the leaf. Treated leaves were always cooler than control leaves. The abaxial leaf surfaces of treated leaves were always warmer than the adaxial surfaces. The adaxial surface of treated small leaves had a higher diffusion resistance than the abaxial ones or either surface of control leaves. Higher diffusion resistance probably is the reason for better survival of treated plants in semi arid environments. Treated plants used water more efficiently than control plants.
Effects of pH, Temperature, Nutrition, Ethephon, and Chlormequat on Endogenous Cytokinin Levels of Coleus blumei Benth.1
Authors: Banko T. J. , Boe A. A.
Published: August 2022

Paper chromatography of coleus exudate extracts showed 2 regions of cytokinin activity detected by the radish cotyledon bioassay, one at Rf 0.1-0.3 and the other at Rf 0.6-0.8. Cytokinin activity was reduced (especially in Rf 0.1-0.3 region) by stress from low pH, low nutrition, low temperature, and by ethephon and chlormequat.
Anatomical and Histochemical Modifications Associated with Abscission of Cucumis Fruits1
Authors: Webster Barbara D.
Published: August 2022

Anatomical changes which take place in conjunction with abscission of cantaloupe fruits (Cucumis melo L. cv. Powdery Mildew Resistant No. 45) include cell separation and cell collapse. Structural modifications in abscission zone cell walls are accompanied by histochemical changes which include losses of pectins and insoluble polysaccharides. Development of a separation cavity is consistently correlated with physiologically defined stages of fruit maturity, and the time of abscission coincides with the peak of the respiratory climacteric. Anatomical and histochemical changes similar to those in cantaloupe also take place in honeydew fruits (Cucumis melo L. cv. Honeydew). However, the abscission zone of honeydews is not structurally well defined, changes are limited to certain parenchyma cells, and the honeydew fruits do not normally abscise. It is suggested that the most desirable growth regulator for use on cantaloupes to accelerate and unify the time of fruit ripening would be one which did not coincidentally accelerate abscission.
Diurnal Pattern of Plant Water Status and CO2 Fixation of Roses as Affected by Irrigation Regimes1
Authors: Plaut Z. , Halevy A. H. , Diskin Y.
Published: August 2022

Diurnal patterns of shoot water potential (ψ), leaf relative water content (RWC), stomatal aperture, and CO2 fixation rates of rose (Rosa hyb.) were determined. Plants were grown in a greenhouse in tuff media and subjected to two irrigation regimes. Shoot water potential decreased gradually from the early morning until 1000-1100 hours, and remained at a minimal value throughout midday, followed by an increase in the afternoon. This daily pattern occurred regardless of season and moisture regime of the growing media, although the minimal value of ψ during midday hours was usually 2-6 bars lower in the dry regime.

Leaf RWC decreased from 96 to 81% and from 85 to 70% between 0700 and 1100 hours in the wet and dry treatments, respectively, in September. The decrease in RWC during midwinter was only 8% and 12%, respectively, in the 2 treatments. This decrease was followed by an increase in RWC during midday which was at least as high as half of the morning drop. The diurnal changes in RWC corresponded to fluctuations in stomatal movement.

The diurnal course of CO2 fixation was affected by radiation flux density and by shoot water potential. In the morning, when water potential was still fairly high, fixation was usually related to radiation flux density. Shoot water potential became a more effective factor in controlling CO2 fixation during midday hours. It is suggested that the rate of CO2 fixation under impaired plant water status was controlled by mesophyll resistance and not only by stomatal diffusive resistance.
N and K Fertilization Effects on Leaf Analysis, Tree Size, and Yield of Three Major Florida Orange Cultivars1
Authors: Reese R. L. , Koo R. C. J.
Published: August 2022

A 5-year field experiment planted on Astatula fine sand using ‘Hamlin,’ ‘Pineapple,’ and ‘Valencia’ orange (Citrus sinensis [L.] Osbeck) on rough lemon rootstock (Citrus jambhiri Lush.) with 4 levels each of N and K indicated that higher N rates increased fruit production and yield of soluble solids. High K applications decreased soluble solids. Increase in tree canopy area between 1968 and 1974 was related to N but not to K applications. Maximum yield response with N in all 3 cultivars was attained at 202 kg/ha/yr. ‘Hamlin’ orange showed maximum yield response to K at 167 kg/ha/yr whereas ‘Pineapple’ and ‘Valencia’ orange had maximum yield at 112 kg/ha/yr. Leaf analyses showed that increased N application resulted in higher leaf N and Mg contents but lower P and K levels. Increased K application showed higher P and K levels but lower Ca and Mg levels.