bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The clinical characteristics and treatment response of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with low body mass index
Authors: Song Qing , Zhou Aiyuan , Lin Ling , Li Xueshan , Cheng Wei , Liu Cong , Peng Yating , Zeng Yuqin , Yi Rong , Liu Yi , Li Xin , Chen Yan , Cai Shan , Chen Ping
Published: July 2023

Background: This study aimed to analyze the clinical characteristics and treatment response of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with low body mass index (BMI).

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we enrolled patients with stable COPD from the database setup by the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University. We classified the patients into three groups based on BMI: low-BMI (<18.5 kg/m2), normal-BMI (≥18.5 and <24.0 kg/m2), and high-BMI (≥24 kg/m2) groups. We defined clinically important deterioration (CID) as a COPD Assessment Test (CAT) score increase of ≥2 and minimum clinically important difference (MCID) as a CAT score decrease of ≥2 during 6 months of follow-up. We recorded the number of exacerbations and mortality during 1 year of follow-up.

Results: A total of 910 COPD patients were included with 144 (15.8%) patients in low-BMI, 475 (52.2%) in normal-BMI, and 291 (32.0%) in high-BMI groups. Patients with low BMI had worse pulmonary function, higher symptom scores, and exacerbations in the past year compared with normal- and high-BMI groups (p < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed that age, Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease grades 3 and 4, and hospitalizations in the past year were independent risk factors for patients with low BMI (p < 0.05). After 1 year of follow-up, patients with low BMI had higher mortality and number of hospitalizations. Patients with low BMI were more likely to attain CID and less likely to attain MCID compared with patients with high BMI (p < 0.05). In addition, patients with low BMI treated with long-acting β2-agonist (LABA)+long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) and LABA+LAMA+inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) were more likely to attain MCID than those treated with LABA+ICS and LAMA (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: COPD patients with low BMI had worse pulmonary function, higher symptom scores, and higher risk of future hospitalizations and mortality and were less likely to attain MCID and more likely to attain CID. It is worth noting that patients with low BMI treated with LABA+LAMA and LABA+LAMA+ICS were more likely to attain MCID than those treated with LABA+ICS and LAMA.
Nano-sized warriors: zinc chromium vanadate nanoparticles as a dual solution for eradicating waterborne enterobacteriaceae and fighting cancer
Authors: Rehman Suriya , Alahmari Fatimah , Aldossary Laila , Alhout Maryam , Aljameel Suhailah S. , Ali Syed Mehmood , Sabir Jamal S. M. , Khan Firdos Alam , Rather Irfan A.
Published: July 2023

The revolution of biomedical applications has opened new avenues for nanotechnology. Zinc Chromium vanadate nanoparticles (VCrZnO4 NPs) have emerged as an up-and-coming candidate, with their exceptional physical and chemical properties setting them apart. In this study, a one-pot solvothermal method was employed to synthesize VCrZnO4 NPs, followed by a comprehensive structural and morphological analysis using a variety of techniques, including X-Ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, Energy-dispersive X-ray, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. These techniques confirmed the crystallinity of the NPs. The VCrZnO4 NPs were tested for their antibacterial activity against primary contaminants such as Enterobacteriaceae, including Shigella flexneri, Salmonella cholerasis, and Escherichia coli, commonly found in hospital settings, using the broth dilution technique. The results indicated a stronger antibacterial activity of VCrZnO4 NPs against Shigella and Salmonella than E. coli. Electron microscopy showed that the NPs caused severe damage to the bacterial cell wall and membrane, leading to cell death. In addition, the study evaluated the anticancer activities of the metal complexes in vitro using colorectal cancer cells (HCT-116) and cervical cancer cells (HELA), along with non-cancer cells and human embryonic kidney cells (HEK-293). A vanadium complex demonstrated efficient anticancer effects with half-inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of 38.50+3.50 g/mL for HCT-116 cells and 42.25+4.15 g/mL for HELA cells. This study highlights the potential of Zinc Chromium vanadate nanoparticles as promising candidates for antibacterial and anticancer applications. Various advanced characterization techniques were used to analyze the properties of nanomaterials, which may help develop more effective and safer antibacterial and anticancer agents in the future.
A hybrid axisymmetric conservative phase-field lattice Boltzmann method for hollow droplet migration
Authors: Qin Ximei
Published: July 2023

A hybrid axisymmetric conservative phase-field lattice Boltzmann method is applied to investigate the influence of Marangoni number (Ma), density ratio (ρr), and radius ratio (Rr) on thermocapillary migration of a deformable hollow droplet with difference in variable fluid properties, where ρr (Rr) is the density (radius) ratio of the hollow part of the droplet. The isotherms show that heat transfer around the hollow droplet is changed from conduction to convection with the increase in Ma. However, the temperature gradient across the hollow droplet decreases with Ma, which induces a small magnitude of migration velocity. When ρr is increased, the isotherms are accumulated around the hollow droplet front with a large temperature gradient, which enhances the hollow droplet migration, while the migration velocity is decreased with the increase in Rr. It is observed that thermocapillary migration of the hollow droplet finally becomes a pure droplet with the influence of aforementioned parameters, and it experiences interface breaking and coalescing, which causes a large transient variation in migration velocity. The magnitude of this transient variation in migration velocity is not obviously affected by Ma but significantly affected by ρr and Rr. The measured evolution of d (the dimensionless distance between inner and outer fronts of the hollow droplet) demonstrates that ρr has a significant influence on the reduction rate of d in comparison with the influence of Ma and Rr. Similar influences on the relative migration velocity between the fluid of the hollow part inside the droplet and the sealed fluid of the droplet are observed.
Effect of aerobic exercise, slow deep breathing and mindfulness meditation on cortisol and glucose levels in women with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Obaya Hany Ezzat , Abdeen Heba Ahmed , Salem Alae Ahmed , Shehata Mai Ali , Aldhahi Monira I. , Muka Taulant , Marques-Sule Elena , Taha Mona Mohamed , Gaber Marwa , Atef Hady
Published: July 2023

Background: Aerobic exercise combined with breathing exercise can be an integral part of diabetes mellitus treatment. This single-center, randomized, parallel-group study investigated the effect of the combination of aerobic exercise with slow deep breathing and mindfulness meditation on the glucose and cortisol levels of women with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Materials and Methods: Fifty-eight middle-aged women with T2DM (mean age: 45.67 ± 2.92 years) were randomly assigned to either the aerobic training group (AT: n = 29; mean age [46.1 ± 2.7 years]) or the aerobic exercise combined with slow deep breathing and mindfulness meditation (AT + DMM: n = 29; mean age [45.24 ± 3.14 years]). Aerobic exercise was performed at 60%–75% of the maximum heart rate. The women in each group were asked to perform the training three times weekly over a 6-week period. The duration of each session was 40 min for the AT group and 60 min for the AT + DMM group. The two groups were asked to perform aerobic exercise at 60%–75% of the maximum heart rate. Their fasting blood glucose (FBG) and serum cortisol levels were measured at the baseline and after the 6 weeks.

Results: Compared with the AT group, the group undertaking 6 weeks of aerobic training combined with slow, deep breathing exercises and mindfulness meditation showed significantly lower levels of FBG (p = 0.001) and cortisol levels (p = 0.01) than the AT group.

Conclusion: The addition of slow deep breathing and mindfulness meditation to aerobic exercise can better control the glucose and cortisol levels of women with T2DM and thereby improve their outcomes and decrease their cardiometabolic risk.
Not all grammar errors are equally noticed: error detection of naturally occurring errors and implications for eye-tracking models of everyday texts
Authors: Søby Katrine Falcon , Ishkhanyan Byurakn , Kristensen Line Burholt
Published: July 2023

Grammar errors are a natural part of everyday written communication. They are not a uniform group, but vary from morphological errors to ungrammatical word order and involve different types of word classes. In this study, we examine whether some types of naturally occurring errors attract more attention than others during reading, measured by detection rates. Data from 211 Danish high school students were included in the analysis. They each read texts containing different types of errors: syntactic errors (verb-third word order), morphological agreement errors (verb conjugations; gender mismatches in NPs) and orthographic errors. Participants were asked to underline all errors they detected while reading for comprehension. We examined whether there was a link between the type of errors that participants did not detect, the type of errors which they produce themselves (as measured in a subsequent grammar quiz), and the type of errors that are typical of high school students in general (based on error rates in a corpus). If an error is infrequent in production, it may cause a larger surprisal effect and be more attended to. For the three subtypes of grammar errors (V3 word order, verb errors, NP errors), corpus error rates predicted detection rates for most conditions. Yet, frequency was not the only possible explanation, as phonological similarity to the correct form is entangled with error frequency. Explicit grammatical awareness also played a role. The more correct answers participants had in the grammar tasks in the quiz, the more errors they detected. Finally, we found that the more annoyed with language errors participants reported to be, the more errors they detected. Our study did not measure eye movements, but the differences in error detection patterns point to shortcomings of existing eye-tracking models. Understanding the factors that govern attention and reaction to everyday grammar errors is crucial to developing robust eye-tracking processing models which can accommodate non-standard variation. Based on our results, we give our recommendations for current and future processing models.
Non-adjacent dependency learning from variable input: investigating the effects of bilingualism, phonological memory, and cognitive control
Authors: Verhagen Josje , de Bree Elise
Published: July 2023

Introduction

One proposed advantage of bilingualism concerns the ability to extract regularities based on frequency information (statistical learning). Specifically, it has been proposed that bilinguals have an advantage in statistical learning that particularly holds in situations of variable input. Empirical evidence on this matter is scarce. An additional question is whether a potential bilingual advantage in statistical learning can be attributed to enhancements in phonological memory and cognitive control. Previous findings on effects of bilingualism on phonological memory and cognitive control are not consistent.

Method

In the present study, we compared statistical learning from consistent and variable input in monolingual and bilingual children (Study 1) and adults (Study 2). We also explored whether phonological memory and cognitive control might account for any potential group differences found.

Results

The findings suggest that there might be some advantage of bilinguals in statistical learning, but that this advantage is not robust: It largely surfaced only in t-tests against chance for the groups separately, did not surface in the same way for children and adults, and was modulated by experiment order. Furthermore, our results provide no evidence that any enhancement in bilinguals' statistical learning was related to improved phonological memory and cognitive control: bilinguals did not outperform monolinguals on these cognitive measures and performance on these measures did not consistently relate to statistical learning outcomes.

Discussion

Taken together, these findings suggest that any potential effects of bilingualism on statistical learning probably do not involve enhanced cognitive abilities associated with bilingualism.
Measuring multiple-source based academic writing self-efficacy
Authors: Bråten Ivar , Haverkamp Ymkje E. , Latini Natalia , Strømsø Helge I.
Published: July 2023

Although writing self-efficacy has been a productive line of research for several decades, no prior writing self-efficacy measure has focused on students’ self-efficacy for integrating information across multiple sources when producing an academic text. To fill this gap in existing research on the measurement of writing motivation, we designed a measure targeting the extent to which students are confident that they can write an academic text that integrates content from several different sources. In a study with Norwegian undergraduate students (n = 136), this measure, which we called the Multiple-Source based Academic Self-Efficacy Scale (MAWSES), was validated by means of confirmatory factor analysis and relationships between the resulting unitary construct and other relevant constructs. The findings provided evidence concerning the reliability and validity of the MAWSES. In future research, this measure could be included as an independent variable to predict processes and products of multiple-source based, integrated academic writing, as a moderator or mediator of effects in writing intervention research, or as an outcome variable in its own right.
Another in need enhances prosociality and modulates frontal theta oscillations in young adults
Authors: Lavín Claudio , Soto-Icaza Patricia , López Vladimir , Billeke Pablo
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Decision-making is a process that can be strongly affected by social factors. Evidence has shown how people deviate from traditional rational-choice predictions under different levels of social interactions. The emergence of prosocial decision-making, defined as any action that is addressed to benefit another individual even at the expense of personal benefits, has been reported as an example of such social influence. Furthermore, brain evidence has shown the involvement of structures such as the prefrontal cortex, anterior insula, and midcingulate cortex during decision settings in which a decision maker interacts with others under physical pain or distress or while being observed by others.

Methods

Using a slightly modified version of the dictator game and EEG recordings, we tested the hypothesis that the inclusion of another person into the decision setting increases prosocial decisions in young adults and that this increase is higher when the other person is associated with others in need. At the brain level, we hypothesized that the increase in prosocial decisions correlates with frontal theta activity.

Results and Discussion

The results showed that including another person in the decision, setting increased prosocial behavior only when this presence was associated with someone in need. This effect was associated with an increase in frontocentral theta-oscillatory activity. These results suggest that the presence of someone in need enhances empathy concerns and norm compliance, raising the participants’ prosocial decision-making.
How general functioning of family affects gambling-related beliefs: the mediating role of communication and the moderating role of impulsivity trait
Authors: Zhang Dapeng , Zhou Shuang , Zheng Hui , Guo Lei , Zhai Jing , Liu Ziqi , Du Zheyi , Dong Ping , Zhao Min , Du Jiang
Published: July 2023

Background

Gambling behaviors can be exhibited by individuals raised in families with impaired parent-child communication and individuals with more impulsive traits. However, it remains unclear how gambling-related beliefs are modulated by impulsivity traits and parent-child communication styles.

Methods

A total of 95 adult patients (age ≥ 18 years) diagnosed via DSM-5 criteria with gambling disorder (GD) completed our questionnaire. Participants filled out pen-and-paper questionnaires that included basic demographic information, the Family Assessment Device (FAD), Parent-Adolescent Communication Scale (PACS), Gambling Attitude and Belief Survey (GABS), and Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS). We used a moderation mediation model to explore the relationship between variables. The study results were considered statistically significant if p < 0.05, or the 95% confidence interval did not contain zero.

Results

The scores of the problems in communication with mother subscale (PCMS) of PACS were significantly positively correlated with the scores of GABS and the general functioning 12-item subscale (GF12) of FAD. The relationship between the scores of GF12 and GABS was completely mediated [β = 4.83, (1.12, 10.02)] by PCMS scores, and the BIS scores moderated this relationship: the predictive path between GF12 and PCMS scores [index of moderated was β = −0.25, (−0.60, −0.04)], and the indirect predictive front path between the scores of GF12 and GABS were significant only in subjects with low BIS scores.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that poor general functioning of the family may increase gambling-related beliefs as a result of communication problems with mothers, and this result is only significant for individuals with low impulsivity. When treating patients with GD, more treatment of mother-child communication issues and individual impulsivity may be more conducive to their recovery.
Service dogs for autistic children and family system functioning: a constant comparative analysis
Authors: Leighton Sarah C. , Rodriguez Kerri E. , Nieforth Leanne O. , O’Haire Marguerite E.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Service dog placements for autistic children are growing in popularity, yet findings to date are mixed. Moreover, no study to date has examined these placements through the lens of a recognized theoretical model. The purpose of this study is twofold: to explore experiences reported by caretakers of autistic children involved in a service dog program, and to contextualize findings within an established theoretical framework.

Methods

A total of n = 50 caretakers of autistic children (n = 38 with and n = 12 without a service dog) were recruited through the national non-profit service dog provider Canine Companions. Participants completed an online survey through Qualtrics which asked open-ended questions about their experiences, both negative and positive.

Results

Constant comparative analysis identified two high level themes, nested within a family systems approach framework: (1) Enhancing social functioning of the family system unit and (2) Fostering stability and strength within family system subunits. These themes interacted holistically to foster and reinforce family system resilience. Placements led to greater social inclusion for children and their families, acted as a highly individualized intervention, and decreased experiences of judgement and stigma. Perceived as members of the family, service dogs may coregulate with the autistic child and family members and can be a source of joyful connection within the family.

Discussion

Results highlighted the service dog’s influence on the entire family (beyond the autistic child). Implications for service dog organizations suggest it may be helpful to account for family-wide impacts throughout the placement process. High standards on the part of provider organizations may minimize negatives, optimizing outcomes for both humans and canines. Ultimately, findings enrich our understanding of service dog interventions for autistic children.
How to measure mental illness stigma at work: development and validation of the workplace mental illness stigma scale
Authors: Matousian Naseli , Otto Kathleen
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The study objective was to design a new theoretically driven multidimensional scale for the use in the empirical measurement of stigmatizing attitudes towards persons with mental illness within the return-to-work process as this integral part of vocational reintegration has been widely neglected by scholars so far.

Methods

Therefore, we developed and validated a 21-item instrument to comprehensively measure the three-factorial structure of stigmatizing attitudes (affect, cognition, behavior) across two studies (overall N = 251).

Results

In both studies the new scale proved to be highly internally consistent, and its proposed three-factor structure was equally supported across the two studies. Convergent and discriminant validity were demonstrated by moderate and high correlations or zero correlations with pertinent measures. Furthermore, construct validity of the new scale was supported by significant positive associations with relevant personality characteristics within stigma research.

Discussion

The WMISS is the first instrument to measure mental health stigma specifically within the return-to-work-process and demonstrates strong psychometric properties. Inclusion of this scale in future research can help facilitate understanding of mental illness stigma within the occupational sector and assist with targeted intervention development.
Impact of the first wave of COVID-19 on Crohn’s disease after the end of “zero-COVID” policy in China
Authors: Hu Wen , Li Xiao , Yan Zelin , Wang Qiuzhi , Luo Jiakai , Yu Qiao , Li Shuyan , Lu Shiyuan , Roozbahani Atiyeh , Ghoushi Ehsan , Chen Yan , Li Jun
Published: July 2023

Background

The incidence and severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among Crohn’s disease (CD) patients are unknown in China. This study aimed to clarify the clinical courses and outcomes of CD patients in the first COVID-19 wave after the end of “zero-COVID” policy in China.

Methods

Clinical characteristics, including vaccination doses and medications of 880 CD patients from a prospective cohort were collected for analysis.

Results

Of the enrolled patients (n = 880) who underwent nucleic acid or antigen testing for COVID-19 from Dec 7, 2022, to Jan 7, 2023, 779 (88.5%) were infected with COVID-19. Among the infected patients, 755 (96.9%) were mild, 14 (1.8%) were moderate, one patient with leukemia died of cerebral hemorrhage (mortality, 0.1%) and only 9 (1.2%) were asymptomatic. Fever, cough, headache and appetite loss were the most frequently observed symptoms in general, respiratory, neurological and gastrointestinal manifestations, respectively. The age and disease duration were significantly higher (40/32, 5.6/3.6, all p < 0.05) in moderate patients than those in mild patients. All other clinical characteristics, including CD activity and medication exposure, showed no significant differences between the above two groups. Furthermore, no significant difference in vaccination or comorbidities was observed between the two groups.

Conclusion

Most CD patients contracted the Omicron infection and experienced mild disease courses in the first COVID-19 wave attack after China ended the “zero-COVID” policy irrespective of vaccination dose or comorbidities.
Implementing laboratory automation for next-generation sequencing: benefits and challenges for library preparation
Authors: Socea Jillian N. , Stone Victoria N. , Qian Xiaorong , Gibbs Paula L. , Levinson Kara J.
Published: July 2023

In the wake of COVID-19, the importance of next-generation sequencing (NGS) for diagnostic testing and surveillance-based screening has never been more evident. Considering this, continued investment is critical to ensure more public health laboratories can adopt these advanced molecular technologies. However, many facilities may face potential barriers such as limited staff available to routinely prepare, test, and analyze samples, lack of expertise or experience in sequencing, difficulties in assay standardization, and an inability to handle throughput within expected turnaround times. Workflow automation provides an opportunity to overcome many of these challenges. By identifying these types of sustainable solutions, laboratories can begin to utilize more advanced molecular-based approaches for routine testing. Nevertheless, the introduction of automation, while valuable, does not come without its own challenges. This perspective article aims to highlight the benefits and difficulties of implementing laboratory automation used for sequencing. We discuss strategies for implementation, including things to consider when selecting instrumentation, how to approach validations, staff training, and troubleshooting.
The reciprocal relationships between meaning in life and smartphone addiction among Chinese college students: evidence from a three-wave cross-lagged panel model
Authors: Zhao Hao , Song Tianjiao , Rafik-Galea Shameem , Dong Jihe , Fitriana Mimi , Ji Yanhong , Zhang Jianling
Published: July 2023

Background

Previous cross-sectional studies have shown that meaning in life (MIL) is closely associated with college students’ smartphone addiction (SA), but the causal relationship between MIL and college students’ SA is uncertain. Therefore, conducting a longitudinal study to explore their relationship is very necessary. Furthermore, some studies have implied possible gender differences in the relationship between MIL and SA and the relationship between SA and MIL. Therefore, it is necessary to further examine whether there are gender differences in the above relationships.

Methods

The present study constructed a three-wave cross-lag panel model to explore the relationships between MIL and college students’ SA. Three waves of data were collected from 705 college students (male: 338; female: 367) in China for three consecutive years, and the interval of data collection was 1 year. These college students completed the same online questionnaire regarding MIL and SA.

Results

(1) The MIL of male college students was significantly stronger than that of female college students at time 1, time 2, and time 3, (2) Female college students’ SA at time 1, time 2, and time 3 was more serious than that of male college students, (3) There were reciprocal relationships between MIL and college students’ SA, (4) The influence of MIL on female college students’ SA was significantly stronger than that of male college students, and (5) The influence of SA on female college students’ MIL was significantly stronger than that of male college students.

Conclusion

This study showed reciprocal relationships between MIL and SA among male college students and female college students. The findings further deepen our understanding of the relationship between MIL and SA and provide a gender perspective for preventing or intervening with college students’ SA.
A survey-based study about burnout among postgraduate medical trainees: implications for leaders in healthcare management
Authors: Yacoubian Aline , Demerouti Evangelia , Degheili Jad A. , El Hajj Albert
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The goal of the study is to assess burnout among postgraduate medical trainees, evaluate the association with sociodemographic features and offer potential wellness strategies for leaders responsible for their education, training, management, and wellbeing.

Methods

The Oldenburg Burnout Inventory was used. The web-based, voluntary, and anonymous survey was sent to postgraduate medical trainees from various specialties and all years of training in a tertiary medical center in Beirut, Lebanon. Additional questions were added after the survey regarding reporting channels for burnout and possible interventions for wellbeing.

Results

The total number of valid responses are 188. The prevalence rates of high burnout are 37.2% for disengagement and 51.1% for exhaustion. There is a significant difference between the mean of exhaustion and gender (p = 0.003). There is a significant difference between the mean of disengagement and year of training (p = 0.017). There is a significant difference between the mean of exhaustion and year of training (p = 0.029). There is a significant difference between the frequency of disengagement and year of training (p = 0.027).

Conclusion

The study reveals how postgraduate medical training program is impacted by the existing challenges from social, health, and financial standpoint, along with the instabilities encountered such as multiple wars and port blast in 2020 and how these variables aggravate burnout. Burnout severely impacts the education and training of PGMT and promoting wellbeing can help reverse the process. Findings contribute to establishing effective strategic interventions for leaders in healthcare management to adopt.
Blood lipid profiles, fatty acid deposition and expression of hepatic lipid and lipoprotein metabolism genes in laying hens fed palm oils, palm kernel oil, and soybean oil
Authors: Izuddin Wan Ibrahim , Loh Teck Chwen , Nayan Nazri , Akit Henny , Noor Ahmadilfitri Md , Foo Hooi Ling
Published: July 2023

The palm oil, palm kernel oil and soybean oil have unique and distinctive fatty acid chain length and saturation profiles, and how they affect lipid peroxidation, fatty acid intake and metabolism is worth exploring in poultry. This study elucidated the influence the dietary oils on lipid peroxidation, blood lipid profiles, fatty acid deposition of liver, serum and yolk and the expression of liver genes related to lipid and lipoprotein metabolism in laying hens. About 150 Hisex brown laying hens were fed diets containing crude palm oil (CPO), red palm oil (RPO), refined palm oil (RBD), palm kernel oil (PKO) or soybean oil (SBO) for 16 weeks. Serum, liver and yolk lipid peroxidation were not different between dietary oils. The PKO increased liver, serum and yolk medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA). There was no difference in liver saturated fatty acids (SFA). The CPO and RPO reduced serum SFA, but the PKO increased yolk SFA. The SBO increased polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in liver serum and yolk. No difference in liver elaidic acid (C18:1-trans), but SBO lowered elaidic acid (C18:1-trans) in serum. Higher very-low density lipoprotein (VLDL) in CPO than RPO and SBO and greater serum lipase in CPO, RBD and PKO than SBO. There was no difference in sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP-II) between oils. Apolipoprotein VLDL-II (APOVLDL2) was upregulated in palm oils and apolipoprotein B-100 (APOB) in RBD. Downregulation in peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-α), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) and low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) was observed in palm oils and PKO. In conclusion, different dietary oils greatly influence several aspects of fatty acid metabolism, deposition and lipoprotein profiles but have no influence on reducing lipid peroxidation.
Comparison of CT-measured angles of pelvic limbs without patellar luxation of six canine breeds
Authors: Brühschwein Andreas , Burg-Personnaz Juliette , Zöllner Martin , Reese Sven , Meyer-Lindenberg Andrea
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Dogs with medial patellar luxation can be affected by pelvic limb deformities whose corrective osteotomies and associated biomechanical rebalancing might provide higher success rates than standard surgical procedures limited to the stifle joint. In bilaterally affected canine patients, comparison with the contralateral normal limb is impossible. Reference values are useful for orthopedic decision-making. Inconsistency of published reference values might depend on methodology or canine breed. We hypothesized that canine pelvic limb alignment is breed-specific.

Methods

CT scans of 42 pelvic limbs of dog breeds predisposed for medial patellar luxation, with an orthotopic patellar position and stability were studied. Several angleswere measured with an open-source 3D Slicer plugin using vector calculations. The breeds were compared with a general linear model with a Bonferonni adjustment using SPSS.

Results

Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Jack Russel Terriers, Pugs, French Bulldogs, Maltese were examined. In the order of the listed breeds, the angles were as follows: 28.3°±10.7°, 20.1°±2.9°, 35.4°±6.9°, 32.8°±3.0°, 19.0°±7.1°, 26.6°±5.3° for the antetorsion, 5.3°±1.8°, 2.8°±2.8°, 8°±4.4°, 3.8 °±3.1°, 4.7°±3.3°, 2.3°±3.3° for the femoral varus, of −5.5°±6.2°, 1.1°±4.1°, −5.2°±9.5°, 6.1°±8.0°, −0.1°±5.9°, −9.2°±4.7° for the tibial torsion, 2.0°±2.9°, 2.1°±2.7°, 6.4°±6.8°, 0.0°±5.7°, 3.0°±5.8°, 8.8°±8.6° for the tibial valgus, 1.2°±10.4°, 1.8°±3.4°, −1.7°±4.9°, −1.7°±9.4°, 5.1°±8.8°, −0.2°±8.6° for the femorotibial rotation and −3.4°±2.2°, 1.1°±4.1°, −2.8°±3.4°, −5.2°±4.0°, −2.1°±4.4°, −5.4°±3.7° for the tibiotalar rotation. There were significant differences between breeds in femoral torsion, femoral varus, and tibial torsion angles, but no significant differences in tibial valgus, femorotibial, and tibiotalar rotation angles.

Discussion

Our hypothesis is therefore partially correct. Our results are limited to small dogs prone to medial patellar luxation and might not be generalized. To establish robust reference values larger case numbers and more breeds should be evaluated. In conclusion, canine pelvic limb alignment reference values for small dogs with a predisposition for medial patellar luxation should be considered breed-specific.
Retention and Predictors of Attrition Among People Living With HIV on Antiretroviral Therapy in Guinea: A 13-Year Historical Cohort Study in Nine Large-Volume Sites
Authors: Leno Niouma Nestor , Guilavogui Foromo , Camara Alioune , Kadio Kadio Jean-Jacques Olivier , Guilavogui Timothé , Diallo Thierno Saidou , Diallo Mamadou Aliou , Leno Daniel William Athanase , Ricarte Button , Koita Youssouf , Kaba Laye , Ahiatsi Arnold , Touré Nagnouman , Traoré Pascal , Chaloub Souleymane , Kamano André , Vicente Carlos Arias , Delamou Alexandre , Cissé Mohamed
Published: July 2023

Objectives: The objective of this study was to estimate the retention rate of patients in an ART program and identify the predictors of attrition.

Methods: This was a historical cohort study of HIV patients who started ART between September 2007 and April 2020, and were followed up on for at least 6 months in nine large-volume sites. Kaplan Meier techniques were used to estimate cumulative retention and attrition probabilities. Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify predictors of attrition.

Results: The cumulative probability of retention at 12 and 24 months was 76.2% and 70.2%, respectively. The attrition rate after a median follow-up time of 3.1 years was 35.2%, or an incidence of 11.4 per 100 person-years. Having initiated ART between 2012 and 2015; unmarried status; having initiated ART with CD4 count <100 cells/μL; and having initiated ART at an advanced clinical stage were factors significantly associated with attrition.

Conclusion: The retention rate in our study is much lower than the proposed national target (90%). Studies to understand the reasons for loss to follow-up are needed.
The Impact of Battery Performance on Urban Air Mobility Operations
Authors: Qiao Xiaotao , Chen Guotao , Lin Weichao , Zhou Jun
Published: July 2023

Urban air mobility (UAM) is a promising transportation concept that can effectively address city traffic congestion and environmental pollution. Power batteries are used extensively in UAM vehicles, and their technical characteristics (charge rate and specific energy) are coupled with other sizing parameters to significantly impact the direct operating cost (DOC). This study develops a DOC model based on a standard flight profile and a detailed battery model to determine the impact of battery performance on UAM operations. The results reveal that for a given operating model and current battery technology, there is a narrower charge rate choice for different DOCs; a charging rate of at least 2–2.5 C is required for rational design. Advancements in specific energy are expected to reduce the DOC by 20–25% by 2035. This model reflects the impacts of battery performance on UAM operations, which is conducive to further developments in the UAM market.
Evaluating How Enhanced Efficiency Nitrogen Fertilizers Improve Agricultural Sustainability: Greenhouse Multi-Phase Tracking System
Authors: Darzi Ran , Kira Oz , Shaviv Avi , Dubowski Yael
Published: July 2023

The vast consumption of nitrogen-based fertilizers is a significant source of environmental pollutants in all phases. While enhanced-efficiency nitrogen fertilizers (EENFs) improve N-use efficiency and reduce environmental impact, their performance depends on local conditions. Here, we present a relatively simple soil–fertilizer–plants greenhouse setup for the multi-phase tracking of N species of the effects of EENFs. We compared the environmental and agronomic performance of three urea-based EENFs (urea embedded with urease inhibitors, 2-month, and 4-month controlled release urea) and the common split surface application of the granulated urea. We tested the fertilizer applications on basil seedlings for three consecutive growing cycles. The analyses carried out included nitrogen recovery in plant biomass, soil, drainage, and NH3 and N2O emissions. This multi-phase research indicates that tested EENFs perform better than the standard surface-applied urea. The four-month controlled-release urea fertilizer matched the basil N demand the best, significantly increasing yield and improving nitrogen use efficiency while reducing NO3− leaching and NH3 and N2O emissions. The presented soil–fertilizer–plants experimental setup provides a relatively easy-to-handle system for the comprehensive tracking of N dynamics, including plant response. It allows stakeholders to estimate and improve fertilization sustainability.
Parboiled Rice Processing Method, Rice Quality, Health Benefits, Environment, and Future Perspectives: A Review
Authors: Muchlisyiyah Jhauharotul , Shamsudin Rosnah , Kadir Basha Roseliza , Shukri Radhiah , How Syahmeer , Niranjan Keshavan , Onwude Daniel
Published: July 2023

Parboiled rice is recognized for its greater milling yield and reduced rice breakage compared to raw rice during processing. Additionally, parboiled rice has better glycemic control and numerous health benefits. However, the production of parboiled rice requires energy-intensive processing as well as wastewater production. This study reviews parboiled rice, including its processing condition, nutritional properties, potential use, emerging green technologies, and health benefits. It also discussed the outlook and challenges regarding parboiled rice. In addition, a novel overview of emerging green solutions applied to the process to minimize wastewater creation during parboiling and reduce excessive energy usage is provided. The limitation of parboiled rice for a new market preference is the color. An intense process would cause an unwanted physical appearance. A thorough study should balance the multiple advantages of parboiled rice with the reasonable intensity of the process. Due to its multiple advantages, parboiled rice is demonstrated to be a possible breakthrough in the agriculture and food industries. This review aims to provide a thorough understanding that can be used for academic and industrial purposes.
Tillage Crop Establishment and Irrigation Methods Improve the Productivity of Wheat (Triticum aestivum): Water Use Studies, and the Biological Properties and Fertility Status of Soil
Authors: Kumar Rajendra , Naresh Ram Krishan , Bhatt Rajan , Chandra Mandapelli Sharath , Kumar Deepak , Alamri Saud , Siddiqui Manzer H. , Alfagham Alanoud T. , Kalaji Hazem M.
Published: July 2023

The Crop Research Centre of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology in Meerut (U.P.), India, conducted field experiments in a randomised block design, comprising three replicates, one late sown variety (DBW-90), and eight treatments, viz.: T1 was a conventional flood irrigation (CFI); T2, furrow irrigated with gated-pipe raised beds (FIGPRB); T3, all furrow irrigation (AFI); T4, alternate furrow irrigation (Alt. FI); T5, wide bed furrow irrigation (WBFI); T6, skip furrow irrigated (SFI); T7, Sprinkler irrigation (SI); and T8, Zero-till flat-irrigated using gated pipe/controlled-flood irrigation (ZTFIGP). These field experiments were conducted during the Rabi seasons of 2017–2018 and 2018–2019. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the yield, water productivity, and soil health under different tillage crop establishment methods. Test weight, spike length, and productive tillers were all considerably enhanced in treatment T5, with the treatment’s statistical significance being similar to that of treatments T8 and T2. Treatment T5 considerably outperformed the other treatments in terms of grain yield, straw yield, biological yield (44.32, 61.88, and 106.19 q ha−1, respectively), as well as harvest index (41.73). Thirty to sixty centimetres of soil were mined for the most water, followed by fifteen to thirty centimetres, zero to fifteen centimetres, and sixty to ninety centimetres. Both water-use efficiency (2.86 q ha−1 cm) and water productivity (1.91 kg cm−3) were highest under T7 (Sprinkler irrigation). The maximum total NPK (113.69; 27.45; 127.33 kg ha−1) was found in crops grown with wide bed furrow irrigation. The data also showed that treatment T6 (skip furrow irrigated) had the highest levels of accessible NPK in soil, followed closely by treatment T4 (alternate furrow irrigated). Treatment T8 (zero-till flat-irrigated using gated-pipe/controlled flood irrigation) had the highest bacterial, fungal, and actinomycete populations, followed by T5 (wide bed furrow irrigated) and T2 (furrow irrigated with gated-pipe/elevated bed). Our research showed that there may be more options for maintaining wheat crop water productivity and soil health under different agroecological conditions, including crop productivity, conservation tillage-based establishing methods, and irrigation regimes.
The Red Squat Lobster Pleuroncodes monodon in the Humboldt Current System: From Their Ecology to Commercial Attributes as Marine Bioresource
Authors: Yapur-Pancorvo Ana Lucía , Quispe-Machaca Marco , Guzmán-Rivás Fabián , Urzúa Ángel , Espinoza Pepe
Published: July 2023

This study focused on gathering available information on Pleuroncodes monodon, a widely distributed crustacean in the Humboldt Current System. Off the Chilean coast, this species presents benthic habits and constitutes the main resource of the industrial crustacean fishery; many studies have been carried out on its life cycle during the last century. In contrast, off the coast of Peru, this species exhibits mainly pelagic habits, with latent information gaps on aspects of its life history and no commercial fishery activities, such as catching, taking or harvesting from the marine environment. P. monodon is an ecologically important species, as a source of energy for its predators, which include invertebrates, birds, marine mammals and fish of commercial interest. Thus, P. monodon seems to play a key role in this ecosystem, mainly as an intermediate link between top predators and the first links in the food chain. In addition, this species presents various adaptation strategies to the changing oceanographic parameters of the areas it inhabits, even tolerating hypoxic environments and great depths in order to avoid being predated. Likewise, from an economic viewpoint, it has a high commercial value as a marine bioresource with great potential in the pharmaceutical and food industries. Considering this, more studies must be carried out to corroborate the biological, ecological, and fishing importance of this species in order to generate efficient management measures and ensure a sustainable fishery.
Impaired Testicular Function without Altering Testosterone Concentration Using an Anti-Follicular-Stimulating Hormone Receptor (Anti-FSHr) Single-Chain Variable Fragment (scFv) in Long-Tailed Macaques (Macaca fascicularis)
Authors: Navanukraw Pakpoom , Chotimanukul Sroisuda , Kemthong Taratorn , Choowongkomon Kiattawee , Chatdarong Kaywalee
Published: July 2023

FSHr antibodies have been shown to inhibit the differentiation of spermatogonia to primary spermatocytes, resulting in infertility without a pathological effect on reproductive organs. The aim of this study was to develop single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) against the follicular-stimulating hormone receptor (anti-FSHr) using phage-display technology and to evaluate the effects of intratesticular administration of the anti-FSHr scFv on testicular function and testosterone production. A phage clone against the extracellular domain of FSHr selected from a scFv phagemid library was analyzed for binding kinetics by surface plasmon resonance. Using ultrasound guidance, three adult macaques (M. fascicularis) were administered with 1 mL of 0.4 mg/mL anti-FSHr scFv (treatment) and 1 mL sterile phosphate buffer solution (control) into the left and right rete testis, respectively. Testicular appearance and volume, ejaculate quality, and serum testosterone levels were recorded on day 0 (before injection) and on days 7, 28, and 56 (after injection). Testicular tissue biopsies were performed on day 7 and day 56 to quantify the mRNA expressions of androgen binding protein (ABP), inhibin subunit beta B (IHBB), and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA). The results demonstrated that the anti-FSHr scFv molecule was calculated as 27 kDa with a dissociation constant (KD) of 1.03 µM. The volume of the anti-FSHr scFv-injected testicle was reduced on days 28 and 56 compared with day 0 (p < 0.05). Total sperm number was reduced from day 0 (36.4 × 106 cells) to day 56 (1.6 × 106 cells) (p < 0.05). The percentage of sperm motility decreased from day 0 (81.7 ± 1.0%) to day 7 (23.3 ± 1.9%), day 28 (41.7 ± 53.4%), and day 56 (8.3 ± 1.9%) (p < 0.05). Sperm viability on day 0 was 86.8 ± 0.5%, which reduced to 64.2 ± 1.5%, 67.1 ± 2.2%, and 9.3 ± 1.1% on days 7, 28, and 56, respectively (p < 0.05). The expression of ABP and VEGFA on days 7 (14.2- and 3.2-fold) and 56 (5.6- and 5.5-fold) was less in the scFv-treated testicle compared with the controls (p < 0.05). On day 56, the expression of IHBB was less (p < 0.05) in the treated testis (1.3-fold) compared with the controls. Serum testosterone levels were unchanged throughout the study period (p > 0.05). This study characterized the anti-FSHr scFv and demonstrated that treatment with anti-FSHr ameliorates testicular function without altering testosterone levels, offering a potential alternative contraceptive for the long-tailed macaques.