bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Succinylation Modified Ovalbumin: Structural, Interfacial, and Functional Properties
Authors: Hu Gan , Zhang Jiemin , Wang Qi , Ma Meihu , Ma Lulu , Li Shugang
Published: September 2022

In this study, ovalbumin (OVA) was succinylated with the addition of different levels of succinic anhydride, and the structural and functional properties of succinylated OVA (SOVA) were investigated. SDS−PAGE and FTIR spectrum confirmed the covalent attachment of the succinyl group to OVA. Thermal stability and the absolute value of zeta potential (pH 6.0) of SOVA were enhanced by 14.90% and 76.77% higher than that of the native OVA (NOVA), respectively. Circular dichroism (CD) spectra demonstrated that the succinylation decreased the α−helix and increased β−sheet content to 21.31% and 43.28%, respectively. The content of free sulfhydryl groups increased and intrinsic fluorescence spectra suggested the SOVA became more unfolded and flexible as the degree of succinylation enhanced. Furthermore, succinylation effectively enhanced the solubility and decreased the interface tension (oil−water and air−water interface) of OVA. Compared to NOVA, the emulsifying activity and stability of SOVA were increased by 1.6 times and 1.2 times, respectively, and foaming capacity and stability were enhanced by 2.7 times and 1.5 times, respectively.
Further Midpoint Inequalities via Generalized Fractional Operators in Riemann–Liouville Sense
Authors: Hyder Abd-Allah , Budak Hüseyin , Almoneef Areej A.
Published: September 2022

In this study, new midpoint-type inequalities are given through recently generalized Riemann–Liouville fractional integrals. Foremost, we present an identity for a class of differentiable functions including the proposed fractional integrals. Then, several midpoint-type inequalities containing generalized Riemann–Liouville fractional integrals are proved by employing the features of convex and concave functions. Furthermore, all obtained results in this study can be compared to previously published results.
Finite-Time Synchronization of Uncertain Fractional-Order Delayed Memristive Neural Networks via Adaptive Sliding Mode Control and Its Application
Authors: Jia Tianyuan , Chen Xiangyong , He Liping , Zhao Feng , Qiu Jianlong
Published: September 2022

Finite-time synchronization (FTS) of uncertain fractional-order memristive neural networks (FMNNs) with leakage and discrete delays is studied in this paper, in which the impacts of uncertain parameters as well as external disturbances are considered. First, the fractional-order adaptive terminal sliding mode control scheme (FATSMC) is designed, which can effectively estimate the upper bounds of unknown external disturbances. Second, the FTS of the master–slave FMNNs is realized and the corresponding synchronization criteria and the explicit expression of the settling time (ST) are obtained. Finally, a numerical example and a secure communication application are provided to demonstrate the validity of the obtained results.
Editorial for Special Issue “Recent Advances in Fractional Differential Equations, Delay Differential Equations and Their Applications”
Authors: Bazighifan Omar
Published: September 2022

Differential equations, both fractional and ordinary, give key tools in understanding the mechanisms of physical systems and solving various problems of nonlinear phenomena [...]
Interplay of the Influence of Crosslinker Content and Model Drugs on the Phase Transition of Thermoresponsive PNiPAM-BIS Microgels
Authors: Schlattmann Daniel , Schönhoff Monika
Published: September 2022

The phase transition behavior of differently crosslinked poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)/N,N’-methylenebisacrylamide (PNiPAM/BIS) microgels with varying crosslinker content is investigated in presence of aromatic additives. The influence of meta-hydroxybenzaldehyde (m-HBA) and 2,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde (2,4-DHBA), chosen as model drugs, on the volume phase transition temperature (VPTT) is analyzed by dynamic light scattering (DLS), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and 1H-NMR, monitoring and comparing the structural, calorimetric, and dynamic phase transition, respectively. Generally, the VPTT is found to increase with crosslinker content, accompanied by a drastic decrease of transition enthalpy. The presence of an additive generally decreases the VPTT, but with distinct differences concerning the crosslinker content. While the structural transition is most affected at lowest crosslinker content, the calorimetric and dynamic transitions are most affected for an intermediate crosslinker content. Additive uptake of the collapsed gel is largest for low crosslinked microgels and in case of large additive-induced temperature shifts. Furthermore, as temperature is successively raised, 1H NMR data, aided by spin relaxation rates, reveal an interesting uptake behavior, as the microgels act in a sponge-like fashion including a large initial uptake and a squeeze-out phase above VPTT.
Making Friends, Making Families: Post-World War II Marriages between Austrian Women and British Soldiers, 1945–1955
Authors: Schretter Lukas
Published: September 2022

Between 1945 and 1955, Austria, like Germany, was divided into four zones under the control of the Soviet Union, the United States of America, Britain, and France. This article discusses marriages between British “occupiers” and Austrian “occupied” between 1945 and 1955, examining the policies for contact from the enactment of the non-fraternisation order until the lifting of the marriage ban. It shows how marriages were concluded despite bureaucratic and legal obstacles and discusses the experiences of Austrian “war brides” upon their arrival and settlement in Britain. The analysis draws upon a wide range of documents to survey the response of the British government and military authorities to British–Austrian relationships and marriage applications. Case studies of an Austrian war bride and children of married British–Austrian couples represent the links between state and military intervention and individual experiences set off by the presence of Allied soldiers in Austria during the first decade after the end of World War II.
Prenatal Cases Reflect the Complexity of the COL1A1/2 Associated Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Authors: Yang Kai , Liu Yan , Wu Jue , Zhang Jing , Hu Hua-ying , Yan You-sheng , Chen Wen-qi , Yang Shu-fa , Sun Li-juan , Sun Yong-qing , Wu Qing-qing , Yin Cheng-hong
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a rare mendelian skeletal dysplasia with autosomal dominant or recessive inheritance pattern, and almost the most common primary osteoporosis in prenatal settings. The diversity of clinical presentation and genetic etiology in prenatal OI cases presents a challenge to counseling yet has seldom been discussed in previous studies. Methods: Ten cases with suspected fetal OI were enrolled and submitted to a genetic detection using conventional karyotyping, chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA), and whole-exome sequencing (WES). Sanger sequencing was used as the validation method for potential diagnostic variants. In silico analysis of specific missense variants was also performed. Results: The karyotyping and CMA results of these cases were normal, while WES identified OI-associated variants in the COL1A1/2 genes in all ten cases. Six of these variants were novel. Additionally, four cases here exhibited distinctive clinical and/or genetic characteristics, including the situations of intrafamilial phenotypic variability, parental mosaicism, and “dual nosogenesis” (mutations in collagen I and another gene). Conclusion: Our study not only expands the spectrum of COL1A1/2-related OI, but also highlights the complexity that occurs in prenatal OI and the importance of clarifying its pathogenic mechanisms.
Evolutionary Trajectories of Primary and Metastatic Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors Based on Genomic Variations
Authors: Xu Midie , Yan Jiuliang , Hu Beiyuan , Wu Chuntao , Gu Haitao , Qi Zihao , Chen Tao , Yang Wenting , Zheng Yan , Dong Hanguang , Sheng Weiqi , Long Jiang
Published: September 2022

Liver metastases are common in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) patients and they are considered a poor prognostic marker. This study aims to analyze the spatiotemporal patterns of genomic variations between primary and metastatic tumors, and to identify the key related biomolecular pathways. We performed next-generation sequencing on paired tissue specimens of primary PanNETs (n = 11) and liver metastases (n = 12). Low genomic heterogeneity between primary PanNETs and liver metastases was observed. Genomic analysis provided evidence that polyclonal seeding is a prevalent event during metastatic progression, and may be associated with the progression-free survival. Besides this, copy number variations of BRCA1/BRCA2 seem to be associated with better prognosis. Pathways analysis showed that pathways in cancer, DNA repair, and cell cycle regulation-related pathways were significantly enriched in primary PanNETs and liver metastases. The study has shown a high concordance of gene mutations between the primary tumor and its metastases and the shared gene mutations may occur during oncogenesis and predates liver metastasis, suggesting an earlier onset of metastasis in patients with PanNETs, providing novel insight into genetic changes in metastatic tumors of PanNETs.
Detection of Indiscriminate Genetic Manipulation in Thoroughbred Racehorses by Targeted Resequencing for Gene-Doping Control
Authors: Tozaki Teruaki , Ohnuma Aoi , Nakamura Kotono , Hano Kazuki , Takasu Masaki , Takahashi Yuji , Tamura Norihisa , Sato Fumio , Shimizu Kyo , Kikuchi Mio , Ishige Taichiro , Kakoi Hironaga , Hirota Kei-ichi , Hamilton Natasha A. , Nagata Shun-ichi
Published: September 2022

The creation of genetically modified horses is prohibited in horse racing as it falls under the banner of gene doping. In this study, we developed a test to detect gene editing based on amplicon sequencing using next-generation sequencing (NGS). We designed 1012 amplicons to target 52 genes (481 exons) and 147 single-nucleotide variants (SNVs). NGS analyses showed that 97.7% of the targeted exons were sequenced to sufficient coverage (depth > 50) for calling variants. The targets of artificial editing were defined as homozygous alternative (HomoALT) and compound heterozygous alternative (ALT1/ALT2) insertion/deletion (INDEL) mutations in this study. Four models of gene editing (three homoALT with 1-bp insertions, one REF/ALT with 77-bp deletion) were constructed by editing the myostatin gene in horse fibroblasts using CRISPR/Cas9. The edited cells and 101 samples from thoroughbred horses were screened using the developed test, which was capable of identifying the three homoALT cells containing 1-bp insertions. Furthermore, 147 SNVs were investigated for their utility in confirming biological parentage. Of these, 120 SNVs were amenable to consistent and accurate genotyping. Surrogate (nonbiological) dams were excluded by 9.8 SNVs on average, indicating that the 120 SNV could be used to detect foals that have been produced by somatic cloning or embryo transfer, two practices that are prohibited in thoroughbred racing and breeding. These results indicate that gene-editing tests that include variant calling and SNV genotyping are useful to identify genetically modified racehorses.
Refuge and Resistance: Theater with Kurds and Yezidi Survivors of ISIS
Authors: Kaplan Ellen Wendy
Published: September 2022

This essay looks at ongoing efforts to revitalize arts and culture among the Yezidi and broader Iraqi Kurdish communities. The Yezidi are survivors of the 2014 genocide perpetrated by the Islamic State (ISIS, also known by its Arabic acronym Da’esh) which resulted in mass killing, captivity and expulsion from their ancestral homeland of Mt. Sinjar in northern Iraq. They are part of the Kurdish people, who have engaged in centuries of struggle to protect their cultural and political identity, establish autonomy and ensure their security in the broader Middle East. After a brief overview of the Yezidi genocide and its aftermath, we trace some theatrical efforts in the 20–21st century and look at two embryonic theater initiatives in Iraqi Kurdistan. The description of cultural projects at Springs of Hope Foundation (Shariya Camp) is followed by personal reflection and analysis of the aims, uses and challenges of Applied Theater. This ‘umbrella term’ refers to a process that uses a theatrical tool-kit in non-theater contexts. The aesthetic, ethical and political challenges inherent in this work are considered: the essay explores questions of ethical care and the implications and pitfalls of working with vulnerable and displaced populations, issues of representation, and creating spaces for healing and expression through participatory theater. Finally, we discuss a new initiative in Iraqi Kurdistan that seeks to address ethnic and political fissures through theater. The essay culminates with a consideration of belonging and re-imagining home.
Clinical Changes of Respiratory Parameters in Institutionalized Older Adults after a Physiotherapy Program Combining Respiratory and Musculoskeletal Exercises
Authors: Arnal-Gómez Anna , Saavedra-Hernández Manuel , Martinez-Millana Antonio , Espí-López Gemma V.
Published: September 2022

Nowadays pulmonary diseases are an increasingly important cause of morbidity and mortality. Diaphragmatic breathing is a controlled-breathing technique that aims to optimize thoracoabdominal movements. The aim of this study was to apply a respiratory and musculoskeletal physiotherapy program in institutionalized older adults and to assess the effects on their pulmonary function tests and oxygen saturation. A randomized double-blind clinical trial was conducted with thirty institutionalized older adults, randomly assigned to a control group (CG), who conducted musculoskeletal exercises; or an experimental group (EG) who, in addition, carried out diaphragmatic breathing, administered for eight weeks, three times/week. Outcomes were pulmonary function variables (forced vital capacity, FVC; forced expired volume at 1 s, FEV1; the FEV1/FVC ratio) and oxygen saturation (SpO2) before and after treatment. Normality of the distributions was tested with Saphiro-Wilk and the pre-post improvement was assessed with a two-sample Mann-Whitney test. Significance level was corrected for multiple comparisons using Benjamini-Hochberg correction (p < 0.04). There was a clinically significant improvement of FVC and FEV1 for the EG. Moreover, the EG showed a statistically significant increase of SpO2 (p = 0.028) after treatment when compared to CG. A physiotherapy program combining breathing and musculoskeletal exercises, improved respiratory parameters in institutionalized older adults.
Towards the Elaboration of a Non-Technical Skills Development Model for Midwives in Morocco
Authors: Ghafili Asmaa , Gantare Abdellah , Lobet-Maris Claire , Gourdin Maximilien
Published: September 2022

This article explores the non-technical skills critical for the practice of midwives through a comparison of two maternity services in Morocco. Soft skills, or non-technical skills, present a set of metacognitive abilities, which complement hard or technical skills, in order to guarantee the safe performance of a technical activity. This exploration is based on an original methodology that triangulates observation of caring paths, qualitative interviews, and quantitative questionnaires. We identified the main soft skills mastered, those that were missing, and those to be developed, based on an observed or expressed need. The research population included 30 midwives and 70 women. The results led us to identify the most critical non-technical skills for midwifery practice at a Local Medical Centre (LMC) and a Provincial Hospital Centre (PHC) to better understand the effects of workload on the possibilities of activating non-technical skills during caring paths. Based on these results, we elaborated a model for the development and improvement of non-technical skills in midwifery.
The Use of the Shikani Video-Assisted Intubating Stylet Technique in Patients with Restricted Neck Mobility
Authors: Shih Tung-Lin , Koay Ker-Ping , Hu Ching-Yuan , Luk Hsiang-Ning , Qu Jason Zhensheng , Shikani Alan
Published: September 2022

Among all the proposed predictors of difficult intubation defined by the intubation difficulty scale, head and neck movement (motility) stands out and plays as a crucial factor in determining the success rate and the degree of ease on endotracheal intubation. Aside from other airway tools (e.g., supraglottic airway devices), optical devices have been developed and applied for more than two decades and have shown their superiority to conventional direct laryngoscopes in many clinical scenarios and settings. Although awake/asleep flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy is still the gold standard in patients with unstable cervical spines immobilized with a rigid cervical collar or a halo neck brace, videolaryngoscopy has been repeatedly demonstrated to be advantageous. In this brief report, for the first time, we present our clinical experience on the routine use of the Shikani video-assisted intubating stylet technique in patients with traumatic cervical spine injuries immobilized with a cervical stabilizer and in a patient with a stereotactic headframe for neurosurgery. Some trouble-shooting strategies for this technique are discussed. This paper demonstrates that the video-assisted intubating stylet technique is an acceptable alternative airway management method in patients with restricted or confined neck motility.
Efficacy of an Integrated Mobile Application System for Patients with Radiation Therapy: A Pilot Study
Authors: Park Jaehyeon , Yea Ji Woon , Oh Se An , Park Jae Won
Published: September 2022

The use of IT applications for patients undergoing radiotherapy is limited. This study aimed to develop an integrated system for communication between patients and radiation oncologists using IT technology and report the first test results for the system “Assisted Radiation Oncology Mobile Application” (AROMA). This system consisted of a manager program, a server running on a PC, and a mobile application on a smartphone. A prospective survey was conducted to evaluate the usefulness of this system from October 2020 to January 2021. The survey consisted of a specific questionnaire on basic information and application use by the patients. The management program was designed such that the user (doctor) edits the treatment schedule, member (patient and doctor) information, self-management, disease information, and side effect questionnaire. The mobile application for patients consisted of the current schedule, treatment schedule calendar, side effect questionnaire, side effect management method, and disease information entered by the doctor. A total of 41 patients were enrolled in this study. The mean adverse event response time was 4.4 days. In the survey, the mobile application received positive views (8.6/10 points). Most responses related to the side effect reporting function (94%) and communication using the application (91%) were positive. Satisfaction with the application design and each menu item was high, with an average of ≥8 and ≥8.5 points in most cases, respectively. The survey showed good satisfaction with the design, operability, and reporting system. Therefore, the system can facilitate communication between patients and radiation oncologists in the future.
Septoplasty Effect on the Enhancement of Airflow Distribution and Particle Deposition in Nasal Cavity: A Numerical Study
Authors: Tao Feng , Feng Yu , Sun Baobin , Wang Jianwei , Chen Xiaole , Gong Jiarui
Published: September 2022

The surgery outcomes after fixing nasal airway obstruction (NAO) are sometimes not satisfactory in improving ventilations of airflow. A case study is presented in this paper with computational fluid dynamics applied to determine the key factors for successful septoplasty plans for a patient with a deviated nasal septum. Specifically, airflow, as well as particle transport and deposition were predicted in a pre-surgery nasal cavity model reconstructed from patient-specific Computer Tomography (CT) images and two post-surgery nasal cavity models (i.e., VS1 and VS2) with different virtual surgery plans A and B. Plan A corrected the deviated septal cartilage, the perpendicular plate of the ethmoid bone, vomer, and nasal crest of the maxilla. Plan B further corrected the obstruction in the nasal vestibule and caudal nasal septal deviation based on Plan A. Simulations were performed in the three nose-to-throat airway models to compare the airflow velocity distributions and local particle depositions. Numerical results indicate that the VS2 model has a better improvement in airflow allocation between the two sides than the VS1 model. In addition, the deposition fractions in the VS2 model are lower than that in both the original and VS1 models, up to 25.32%. The better surgical plan (i.e., Plan B) reduces the particle deposition on the convex side, but slightly increases the deposition on the concave side. However, the overall deposition in the nasal cavity is reduced.
On-Tree Fruit Bagging and Cold Storage Maintain the Postharvest Quality of Mango Fruit
Authors: Nadeem Atif , Ahmed Zienab Fawzy Reiad , Hussain Syed Bilal , Omar Alaa El-Din K. , Amin Muhammad , Javed Saqib , Ali Amjad , Ullah Sami , Razzaq Kashif , Rajwana Ishtiaq A. , Nayab Shafa , Ziogas Vasileios , Alam-Eldein Shamel M. , Mira Amany M.
Published: September 2022

The present study investigates the influence of on-tree fruit bagging on the quality and shelf life of mango (Mangifera indica L. cv. ‘Samar Bahisht Chaunsa’) during cold storage (12 °C ± 1; 85–90% RH) for 0, 10 and 20 days (d) and subsequent shelf storage under ambient conditions (25 °C ± 1; 60–65% RH). Fruits were covered with brown paper bags at the marble stage and then harvested at commercial maturity. Results showed that 0 d and 10 d cold-stored fruits, irrespective of bagging treatments, retained eatable quality and shelf-life up to 7 d and 5 d during ambient storage, respectively. However, bagged fruits had better postharvest performance compared with non-bagged fruits by exhibiting slower weight loss, higher fruit firmness, more total soluble solids, vitamin C and total phenolic content and higher activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase during cold storage and ambient shelf storage. On the other hand, 20 d cold-stored fruits, both bagged and non-bagged, were decayed when kept under ambient conditions. It is proposed that mango fruit bagging could be a potential cultural practice to preserve postharvest quality up to 10 d of cold storage, followed by 5 d under ambient conditions.
The Impact of CO2 Enrichment on Biomass, Carotenoids, Xanthophyll, and Mineral Content of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)
Authors: Holley Jake , Mattson Neil , Ashenafi Eyosias , Nyman Marianne
Published: September 2022

Carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations affect the growth rate of plants by increasing photosynthesis. Increasing CO2 in controlled environment agriculture (CEA) provides a means to boost yield or decrease daily light integral (DLI) requirements, potentially increasing profitability of growing operations. However, increases in carbon dioxide concentrations are often correlated with decreased nutritional content of crops. The objectives of this experiment were to quantify the effects of carbon dioxide on the growth, morphology, and nutritional content of two lettuce varieties, ‘Rex’ and ‘Rouxai’ under four CO2 concentrations. Applied CO2 treatments were 400, 800, 1200, and 1600 ppm in controlled environment chambers with identical DLI. Lettuce was germinated for eight days in a greenhouse, then transplanted into potting mix and placed in a growth chamber illuminated by fluorescent lights. After 21 days, lettuce was destructively harvested, and fresh weight and plant volume were measured. Anthocyanins, xanthophylls, chlorophyll, and mineral concentration were measured. The lettuce fresh and dry weight increased with increasing CO2 concentrations, with the greatest increases observed between 400 and 800 ppm, and diminishing increases as CO2 concentration further increased to 1200 and 1600 ppm. Violaxanthin was observed to decrease in ‘Rouxai’ with increasing CO2 concentration. Largely, no significant differences were observed in lutein, anthocyanins, and mineral content. Overall, increasing concentrations of carbon dioxide can significantly increase the yield for lettuce in controlled environments, while not significantly reducing many of the nutritional components.
Advances in Molecular Breeding of Vegetable Crops
Authors: Wang Yaru , Zhang Yuyang
Published: September 2022

Molecular vegetable breeding has been progressed intensively in recent years. Huge advances have been made in germplasm evaluation, gene isolation, plant transformation, gene editing and molecular-marker-assisted breeding. The goal of this Special Issue is to highlight, through selected works, frontier research from basic to applied molecular vegetable breeding. The selected papers published in Special Issue of Horticulturae exhibit a diversity in molecular vegetable breeding. The papers listed in this editorial are especially noteworthy.
Germination Kinetics and Chlorophyll Fluorescence Imaging Allow for Early Detection of Alkalinity Stress in Rhododendron Species
Authors: Wang Shusheng , Leus Leen , Lootens Peter , Van Huylenbroeck Johan , Van Labeke Marie-Christine
Published: September 2022

Rhododendron species are typical calcifuges that do not grow well in calcareous soils characterized by alkaline pH and high concentrations of Ca2+. In this study, we investigated the effects of three pH levels and a Ca2+ treatment on the in vitro germination and seedling growth of three Rhododendron species: R. chihsinianum, R. fortunei, and R. vernicosum. Alkaline pH had no significant effect on germination parameters (gMAX, mean germination time and germination uniformity) but significantly increased abnormal leaf development (AL) and mortality in all three species. Adding extra Ca2+ reduced the mean germination time for R. vernicosum. The negative influence of alkaline pH on seedlings was already visible on the second day of treatment as measured by chlorophyll fluorescence imaging parameters (Fv/Fm and ΦPSII) on R. fortunei. Extra Ca2+ alleviated the negative effect of alkaline pH and increased Fv/Fm 41 days after seed germination in R. fortunei and R. chihsinianum and reduced mortality for all three species. In conclusion, alkaline pH mainly influenced seedling development and growth but not the germination process itself. Chlorophyll fluorescence imaging can be an efficient way to perform high-throughput in vitro screening of Rhododendron seedlings for alkalinity tolerance.
Root Exploration, Initial Moisture Conditions, and Irrigation Scheduling Influence Hydration of Stratified and Non-Stratified Substrates
Authors: Criscione Kristopher S. , Fields Jeb S. , Owen James S.
Published: September 2022

Soilless substrate stratification (i.e., layering unique substrates within a single container) is an emerging substrate management strategy that may provide opportunities to augment nursery resource use. As such, this research aimed to analyze water movement through containers during hydration events under different initial moisture conditions. The results indicated substrate stratification had minimal influence on water movement compared to non-stratified systems (uniformly filled nursery containers). Cyclic irrigation significantly increased the stratified substrates’ ability to retain water when irrigated at 20% volumetric water content (p < 0.0001) and significantly decreased the total volume leached (p < 0.0001). Moreover, irrigating the substrate profile with shallow and more frequent irrigations facilitated stratified substrates ty reach effective container capacity conditions (p < 0.0001n compared to non-stratified systems. The stratified systems took longer to leach all gravitational pores (p = 0.0266). In dry moisture conditions, non-stratified substrates were more hydrated when cyclic irrigation applications were applied compared to single applications (p = 0.0492). This study demonstrated that cyclic irrigation scheduling enhanced water retention in both non-stratified and stratified profiles under different initial moisture conditions and can be used as an irrigation strategy when dry substrate conditions prevail.
Combined Use of Spent Mushroom Substrate Biochar and PGPR Improves Growth, Yield, and Biochemical Response of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis): A Preliminary Study on Greenhouse Cultivation
Authors: Širić Ivan , Eid Ebrahem M. , Taher Mostafa A. , El-Morsy Mohamed H. E. , Osman Hanan E. M. , Kumar Pankaj , Adelodun Bashir , Abou Fayssal Sami , Mioč Boro , Andabaka Željko , Goala Madhumita , Kumari Sonika , Bachheti Archana , Choi Kyung Sook , Kumar Vinod
Published: September 2022

This paper investigated the impact of the combined use of spent mushroom substrate (SMS) biochar and plant-growth-promoting rhizobia (PGPR) on the growth, yield, and biochemical response of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis). A preliminary study was conducted under greenhouse condition using six treatments (sextuplicate) as control (no addition), T1 (PGPR), T2 (5 g/Kg biochar), T3 (5 g/Kg biochar + PGPR), T4 (10 g/Kg biochar), and T5 (10 g/Kg biochar + PGPR) under greenhouse conditions. The Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM-Zeiss), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), and Fourier’s transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses showed that biochar produced from slow pyrolysis of SMS had advantageous structural, functional, and morphological properties for agricultural use. Results showed that SMS biochar addition aids the acceleration of soil nutrient properties. SMS biochar and PGPR application also significantly (p < 0.05) improved the selected growth, yield, and biochemical parameters of cauliflower. In particular, the highest cauliflower yield (550.11 ± 10.05 g), fresh plant biomass (1.66 ± 0.04 Kg), dry plant biomass (149.40 ± 4.18 g), plant height (22.09 ± 0.14 cm), root length (11.20 ± 0.05 cm), plant spread (28.35 ± 0.18 cm), and the number of leaves (12.50 ± 0.50) were observed in T5 treatment. Similarly, the best values for biochemical parameters and enzyme activities such as total chlorophyll (TC: 3.13 ± 0.07 mg/g), superoxide dismutase (SOD: 79.12 ± 1.29 µg/g), catalase (CAT: 55.70 ± 2.52 µg/g), peroxidase (POD 30.18 ± 0.37 µg/g), total phenolics (TP: 19.50 ± 0.31 mg/g), ascorbic acid (AA: 14.18 ± 0.55 mg/g), and total carotenoids (TCT: 150.17 ± 8.20 µg/100 g) were also recorded in the T5 treatment. The application of SMS biochar and PGPR showed a positive correlation with growth, yield, and biochemical response of cauliflower, as indicated by the Pearson correlation analysis. The findings of this study suggest efficient recycling of mushroom industry waste for biochar production and the use of PGPR to improve nutrient utilization in sustainable agriculture.
Impacts of Land Use on Surface Water Quality Using Self-Organizing Map in Middle Region of the Yellow River Basin, China
Authors: Pei Liang , Wang Chunhui , Zuo Yiping , Liu Xiaojie , Chi Yanyan
Published: September 2022

The Yellow River is one of the most important water sources in China, and its surrounding land use affected by human activities is an important factor in water quality pollution. To understand the impact of land use types on water quality in the Sanmenxia section of the Yellow River, the water quality index (WQI) was used to evaluate the water quality. A self-organizing map (SOM) was used for clustering analysis of water quality indicators, and the relationship between surface water quality and land use types was further analyzed by redundancy analysis (RDA). The results showed that WQI values ranged from 82.60 to 507.27, and the highest value was the sampling site S3, whose water quality grade was “Likely not suitable for drinking”, mainly polluted by agricultural non-point sources ammonia nitrogen pollution. SOM clustered the sampling sites into 4 groups according to the water quality indicators, the main influencing factors for different groups were analyzed and explored in more depth in relation to land use types, suggesting that surface water quality was significantly connected with the proportion of land use types at the watershed scale in the interpretation of water quality change. The negative impact of cropland on surface water quality was greater than that of other land use types, and vegetation showed a greater positive impact on surface water quality than other land uses. The results provide evidence for water environment conservation based on land use in the watershed.
Excellent Response to OnabotulinumtoxinA: Different Definitions, Different Predictors
Authors: Ornello Raffaele , Baraldi Carlo , Ahmed Fayyaz , Negro Andrea , Miscio Anna Maria , Santoro Antonio , Alpuente Alicia , Russo Antonio , Silvestro Marcello , Cevoli Sabina , Brunelli Nicoletta , Vernieri Fabrizio , Grazzi Licia , Pani Luca , Andreou Anna , Lambru Giorgio , Frattale Ilaria , Kamm Katharina , Ruscheweyh Ruth , Russo Marco , Torelli Paola , Filatova Elena , Latysheva Nina , Gryglas-Dworak Anna , Straburzyński Marcin , Butera Calogera , Colombo Bruno , Filippi Massimo , Pozo-Rosich Patricia , Martelletti Paolo , Guerzoni Simona , Sacco Simona
Published: September 2022

The identification of patients who can benefit the most from the available preventive treatments is important in chronic migraine. We explored the rate of excellent responders to onabotulinumtoxinA in a multicenter European study and explored the predictors of such response, according to different definitions. A pooled analysis on chronic migraineurs treated with onabotulinumtoxinA and followed-up for, at least, 9 months was performed. Excellent responders were defined either as patients with a ≥75% decrease in monthly headache days (percent-based excellent responders) or as patients with <4 monthly headache days (frequency-based excellent responders). The characteristics of excellent responders at the baseline were compared with the ones of patients with a <30% decrease in monthly headache days. Percent-based excellent responders represented about 10% of the sample, whilst frequency-based excellent responders were about 5% of the sample. Compared with non-responders, percent-based excellent responders had a higher prevalence of medication overuse and a higher excellent response rate even after the 1st and the 2nd injection. Females were less like to be frequency-based excellent responders. Chronic migraine sufferers without medication overuse and of female sex may find fewer benefits with onabotulinumtoxinA. Additionally, the excellent response status is identifiable after the first cycle.
Analyzing the Characteristics of Policies and Political Institutions for the Prevention and Control Governance of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Evidence from China
Authors: Dong Mingniu , Zhou Cheng , Zhang Zhenhua
Published: September 2022

This study explores the institutional reasons for and logical mechanism of the Chinese government’s rapid positive results and major strategic achievements in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic prevention and control. Based on the ROST Content Mining System version 6.0 (ROST) and VOSviewer V1.6.1 (VOSviewer), we conduct an econometric visualization analysis of COVID-19 pandemic prevention and control policies to explore which strengths of Chinese political institutions have been brought into play by the Chinese government and how to systematically analyze the approaches by which these strengths support effective public governance. The findings show that: (1) “institutional strength”, “medical terminology”, “policy content”, “policy implementation object”, “policy implementation requirement”, and “policy-making and implementation actor” are the six groups of high-frequency keywords in prevention and control policies. (2) The occurrences, links, and total link strength of the seven Chinese institutional strength keywords are very high. These results mean that the Chinese government has made full use of its institutional strengths to prevent and control COVID-19. These findings indicate that institutional strengths are critical to public health crisis prevention and control. They also illustrate that institutional strength is the prerequisite and key factor for achieving effective governance in the policy process. Scientific policymaking, efficient policy implementation, and strict oversight are undeniably necessary for effective governance during public health crises.
Remote Work Support Needs of Employees with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Poland: Perspectives of Individuals with Autism and Their Coworkers
Authors: Tomczak Michał T. , Mpofu Elias , Hutson Nathan
Published: September 2022

Background and Aims: With remote work becoming more common across industries, employees with autism may experience different work support needs from neurotypical peers. However, the specific remote work needs of this group of employees are underexplored in the literature. We aim to propose ways to assess workplace digital adaptation needs for individuals with autism and a framework for communicating these needs to employers. Methods: This qualitative study included interviews with 13 Polish business professionals, including coworkers and/or supervisors of employees with autism (n = 9) and female employees with autism (n = 4), about their remote work support needs. Participants responded to semi-structured interview questions identifying advantages and risk factors associated with remote work for this specific group of employees. Results: Participants reported advantages of remote work, such as limiting sensory overload and intensive interpersonal contacts, indirect interpersonal communications, flexible work hours, and eliminating the need to travel to work. Participants also reported challenges of remote work, such as reducing wanted or helpful social contacts, engaging in direct electronic communications, limiting opportunities to learn from other employees, and managing work–life balance. Conclusion: These findings suggest a need for an autism-inclusive digitalized remote work design customized to the unique needs of employees on the autism spectrum. Business managers would be key partners in the design of autism-inclusive digitalized remote work systems. Additional research is needed with larger and more diverse samples of employees with autism.
Diacutaneous Fibrolysis Intervention in Patients with Mild to Moderate Carpal Tunnel Syndrome May Avoid Severe Cases in Elderly: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Jiménez-del-Barrio Sandra , Ceballos-Laita Luis , Bueno-Gracia Elena , Rodríguez-Marco Sonia , Caudevilla-Polo Santos , Estébanez-de-Miguel Elena
Published: September 2022

Background: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) mainly affects adults of working age. The prevalence of severe cases is higher in elderly patients (>65 years old). Clinical guidelines recommend conservative treatment as the best option in the initial stages of CTS to avoid severe cases. Diacutaneous Fibrolysis (DF) has demonstrated to improve nerve conduction studies and mechanosensitivity. The main purpose was to quantify changes in the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the median nerve, transversal carpal ligament (TCL) thickness, numbness intensity, and the subjective assessment of clinical change after DF treatment in patients with CTS. Methods: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was designed. A number of 44 patients (60 wrists) with CTS were randomized to the DF group or the sham group. CSA and TCL thickness variables were registered by ultrasound. Clinical variables were assessed by the visual analogue scale and GROC scale. SPSS version 24.0 for MAC was used for statistical analysis. The group by time interaction between groups was analyzed using two-way repeated measures analysis of variance. Results: The DF group reduced CSA with a mean of 0.45 mm2 (IC 95% 0.05 to 0.86) and TCL thickness with a mean reduction of 0.4 mm (IC 95% 0.6 to 2.1) compared to the sham group (p < 0.01, p < 0,03, respectively). Additionally, the DF group decreased the numbness intensity with a mean reduction of 3.47 (IC 95% 2.50 to 4.44, p < 0.01) and showed a statistically significant improvement on the GROC scale (p < 0.01). Conclusions: DF treatment may significantly reduce CSA and TCL thickness, numbness intensity, and improved clinical perspective. DF applied in patients with mild to moderate CTS may prevent the progression of the disease as they age.
Optimal Carbon Abatement Strategy for Manufacturers under Cap-and-Trade
Authors: Chai Qiangfei , Li Yiming , Xiao Zhongdong , Lai Kee-hung
Published: September 2022

Carbon emission abatement is very important for manufacturers regulated by environmental policies. However, choosing an optimal carbon abatement strategy is difficult for many firms. This paper attempts to explore the appropriate carbon abatement strategy for firms that are regulated by cap-and-trade. Specifically, by bringing remanufacturing into consideration, this paper examines a manufacturer that has four alternative carbon abatement strategies: (1) do nothing, (2) invest in carbon abatement, (3) engage in remanufacturing, or (4) become involved in investment and remanufacturing together. The models of these four strategies are first developed in a monopolistic operating environment. The results show that among the four carbon abatement strategies, although the fourth strategy has the highest costs, it generates the largest profits for the manufacturer, passes the greatest benefits along to consumers, and has the best environmental performance. Next, this study is extended to a competitive environment. The results show that the optimal strategy in the monopolistic environment no longer maximizes profits, and decision guidance is offered for the manufacturer operating under such an environment.
Impairment in Working Memory and Executive Function Associated with Mercury Exposure in Indigenous Populations in Upper Amazonian Peru
Authors: Silman Alycia K. , Chhabria Raveena , Hafzalla George W. , Giffin Leahanne , Kucharski Kimberly , Myers Katherine , Culquichicón Carlos , Montero Stephanie , Lescano Andres G. , Vega Claudia M. , Fernandez Luis E. , Silman Miles R. , Kane Michael J. , Sanders John W.
Published: September 2022

The Matsigenka people living traditional lifestyles in remote areas of the Amazon rely on a fish-based diet that exposes them to methylmercury (MeHg) at levels that have been associated with decreased IQ scores. In this study, the association between Hg levels and working memory was explored using the framework of the Multicomponent Model. Working memory tasks were modified to fit the culture and language of the Matsigenka when needed and included measures for verbal storage (Word Span) visuospatial storage (Corsi Block Task) and a measure of executive functions, the Self-Ordered Pointing Task (SOPT). An innovation of the Trail Making Tests A & B (TMT A & B) was pilot tested as another potential measure of executive functions. The mean hair Hg levels of 30 participants, ages 12 to 55 years, from three different communities (Maizal, Cacaotal and Yomibato) was 7.0 ppm (sd = 2.40), well above the World Health Organization (WHO) limit for hair of 2.0 ppm and ranged from 1.8 to 14.2 ppm, with 98% of a broader sample of 152 individuals exceeding the WHO limit. Hair Hg levels showed significant associations with cognitive performance, but the degree varied in magnitude according to the type of task. Hg levels were negatively associated with executive functioning performance (SOPT errors), while Hg levels and years of education predicted visuospatial performance (Corsi Block accuracy). Education was the only predictor of Word Span accuracy. The results show that Hg exposure is negatively associated with working memory performance when there is an increased reliance on executive functioning. Based on our findings and the review of the experimental research, we suggest that the SOPT and the Corsi Block have the potential to be alternatives to general intelligence tests when studying remote groups with extensive cultural differences.
Lost in Communication: Do Family Physicians Provide Patients with Information on Preventing Diet-Related Diseases?
Authors: Olszewski Robert , Obiała Justyna , Obiała Karolina , Owoc Jakub , Mańczak Małgorzata , Ćwiklińska Klaudia , Jabłońska Magdalena , Zegarow Paweł , Grygielska Jolanta , Jaciubek Marzena , Majka Katarzyna , Stelmach Daria , Krupienicz Andrzej , Rysz Jacek , Jeziorski Krzysztof
Published: September 2022

Diet-related diseases remain leading causes of death in most developed countries around the world. The aim of the study was to compare opinions of patients and family physicians on receiving and providing recommendations about physical activity, diet and use of medication. Methods: The questionnaire study was conducted among patients of 36 primary health care clinics in Poland between September 2018 and February 2019. Patients and physicians were interviewed separately by trained researchers. Data from 509 patients and 167 family doctors were analyzed. Results: The median age of patients was 44 years (interquartile range: 29–55) and 70% were women. The majority of physicians were women (59%) and the median age was 37 years (IQR: 31–50). There was a significant difference between physicians’ declarations on providing recommendations on diet (92% vs. 39%) and activity (90% vs. 37%) versus patients’ declarations on receiving them. Conclusions: The results indicate that there is significant room for improvement in providing patients with proper recommendations on diet and physical activity by their family physicians. Primary care physicians should put more emphasis on clear communication of recommendations on diet and physical activity.
Study on Safety Coefficient of Sedimentary Bauxite Strip Pillar under Valley Terrain
Authors: Jiang Lichun , Jiao Huazhe , Xie Bo , Yang Han
Published: September 2022

The underground sedimentary bauxite ore body in Shanxi province has a shallow burial depth; the valley terrain caused stress concentration on a pillar which affected the pillar’s safety and goaf stability. This paper proposed a pillar safety coefficient calculation method affected by the goaf structural parameters and the valley terrain, which was based on a pillar mechanics analysis under the valley terrain. The results show that the overlying valley terrain will cause stress concentration on the pillar, reducing the adequate bearing capacity and the pillar stability. The increase of the goaf span b and the height of the pillar h is extensively detrimental to pillar stability. Meanwhile, increasing the pillar burial depth would cause the pillar to weaken, but can effectively decrease the influence of the valley terrain. Furthermore, when the angle between the goaf strike and the valley strike β < 50°, β has a more significant impact on the stress concentration and safety coefficient. The stability of an underground sedimentary bauxite pillar is calculated by the method, the result complied with the actual situation.