bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BmAbl1 Regulates Silk Protein Synthesis via Glutathione Metabolism in Bombyx mori
Authors: Qin Sheng , Sun Lingling , Zhang Shu , Sun Xia , Li Muwang
Published: October 2022

Bombyx mori, domesticated from wild silkworms, is an economic insect that feeds on mulberry leaves and produces silk. In the current study, we demonstrated the contribution of BmAbl1 in silk protein synthesis. The inhibition and knockout of BmAbl1 can reduce the larva weight and CSW. The effect on CSW of BmAbl1 is not on the transcriptional level, but on the translational level. RNA-sequencing data suggested that amino acid synthesis and the metabolism process had a great difference between the BmAbl1- and Control strain, particularly glutathione metabolism. An abnormality in glutathione metabolism led to the reduction of free glycine and serine content, which are the main components of fibroin protein. Finally, fibroin protein synthesis has been reduced, including fibroin-heavy chain, fibroin-light chain, and p25 protein. This finding brought to light the role of BmAbl1 in the silk protein synthesis process.
First Documented Wild Population of the “Hunter Fly”, Coenosia attenuata Stein (Diptera: Muscidae) in North America
Authors: Kaldor Amos D. , McHugh Joseph V. , Schmidt Jason M. , Luo Xuelin , Gariepy Tara D. , Blaauw Brett R.
Published: October 2022

Coenosia attenuata is a member of the tigrina-group of Coenosia (sensu Hennig 1964) and is a capable generalist predator in its larval and adult stages. C. attenuata is common in greenhouses worldwide, however, there are few documented cases of its presence in the wild. Here, we estimated C. attenuata presence in the southeastern USA peach orchards using pan traps. Over two years, a total of 717 specimens were collected from both commercially managed and fungicide-only managed peach orchards. C. attenuata is a known biological control agent in artificial greenhouse settings, but its impact on pest species in the wild is still unknown. For the first time in North America, we document an established wild population of C. attenuata, provide an overview of basic identification, and review potential benefits for biological control.
Electrophysiological and Behavioral Responses of Apis mellifera and Bombusterrestris to Melon Flower Volatiles
Authors: Zhang Jiangchao , Liu Jinjia , Gao Fei , Chen Min , Jiang Yusuo , Zhao Huiting , Ma Weihua
Published: October 2022

As important pollinators, honeybees and bumblebees present a pollination behavior that is influenced by flower volatiles through the olfactory system. In this study, volatile compounds from melon flowers were isolated and identified by headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and their effects on Apis mellifera and Bombus terrestris were investigated by electroantennogram (EAG) and behavior tests (Y-tube olfactometer). The results showed that 77 volatile compounds were detected in melon flowers, among which the relative content of aldehydes was the highest (61.34%; 82.09%). A. mellifera showed a strong EAG response to e-2-hexenal, e-2-octenal, and 1-nonanal. B. terrestris showed a strong EAG response to e-2-hexenal, e-2-octenal, 2,5-dimethyl-benzaldehyde, benzaldehyde and benzenepropanal. In behavior tests, the volatiles with the highest attractive rate to A. mellifera were e-2-hexenal (200 μg/μL, 33.33%) and e-2-octenal (300 μg/μL, 33.33%), and those to B. terrestris were e-2-hexenal (10 μg/μL, 53.33%) and 2,5-dimethyl-benzaldehyde (100 μg/μL, 43.33%). E-2-hexenal and e-2-octenal were more attractive to A. mellifera than B. terrestris, respectively (10 μg/μL, 10 μg/μL, 200 μg/μL). In conclusion, the volatiles of melon flowers in facilities have certain effects on the electrophysiology and behavior of bees, which is expected to provide theoretical and technical support for the pollination of A. mellifera and B. terrestris in facilities.
Development and Fecundity of Oriental Fruit Moth (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) Reared on Various Concentrations of Amygdalin
Authors: Wang Yi , Li Jie , Chai Xiaohan , Hu Xuefeng , Li Xianwei , Kong Weina , Ma Ruiyan
Published: October 2022

Grapholita molesta (Busck) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), Oriental fruit moth (OFM), attacks fruits and shoots of the economically important trees in Rosaceae. Amygdalin is a cyanogenic glucoside of rosaceous plants that may be related to the seasonal patterns of infestation in many pests. The amygdalin concentration of fruits and shoots of peach, pear, and apple varies over the growing season. However, the relationship between the amygdalin concentration and G. molesta performance has not been reported. Here, we measured the performance (feeding, growth, development, and fecundity) of G. molesta larvae (as subsequent adults) reared on artificial diets with six amygdalin concentrations (0, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 48 mg/g), and we then calculated the population parameters. We found that these different concentrations of amygdalin affected the developmental time and fecundity, except for the proportion of larvae feeding on the diet and the survival rates of larvae and pupae. When compared with the control diet without amygdalin, diets with 3 or 6 mg/g (low and moderate concentrations) of amygdalin shortened developmental times and increased the number of eggs laid by females; however, a diet with 12 mg/g (moderate concentration) of amygdalin only increased the number of eggs laid by females and did not affect the larval and pupal developmental rate. A diet with 48 mg/g (high concentration) of amygdalin prolonged developmental times and reduced the number of eggs laid by females when compared with the control diet without amygdalin. Furthermore, the intrinsic rate of increase (rm) for insects reared on diets with 3 or 6 mg/g (low and moderate concentrations) of amygdalin versus the control diet without amygdalin showed a slightly improved population growth. However, this increase in the rm value did not persist over ten successive generations of rearing on the same diet. We concluded that the diet with 6 mg of amygdalin per g of diet can enhance the performance and population growth of G. molesta, but the effects of amygdalin are concentration-dependent.
Death Education among Social Science College Students: The Good, the Bad, and the Unchanged
Authors: Zorotovich Jennifer , Cohen Adrienne Lynn
Published: October 2022

Personal identity is often dictated by the social roles a person fulfills (e.g., mother, son, partner, employee, etc.) and these social roles are defined by the greater family unit and surrounding social environments. Monumental events, such as death, often change a person’s social roles and demand a reorganization of the family unit. To provide comprehensive end-of-life care, human services professionals become an integral piece of care provisions as they are trained in serving the mothers, fathers, and children of the world, more so than treating the biological aspects of illness. It is for this reason that understanding the impacts of education on social science majors is important. To date, research on the effects of end-of-life education has largely focused on the negative affect among those in healthcare-related programs, leaving gaps in the literature surrounding the impacts, both negative and positive, of death education on future human services professionals. The current study explores pre–post semester changes in negative and positive affect among social science students (n = 92) enrolled in courses focused on end-of-life compared to those in an aging and human services-focused courses. Using paired and individual samples t-tests, within- and between-group changes were explored. Students in the experimental group reported lower death anxiety scores post-semester (M = 4.34, 95% CI [2.60, 6.08], t(74) = 4.97, p < 0.05), but this was not the case for the control group. Between group differences revealed that students in the experimental group displayed a greater decrease in fear of others dying (x = 4.08, sd = 6.23) than those in the control group (x = 1.24, sd = 0.95) and they reported larger increases in subjective happiness by an average of 0.61 points (sd = 2.42) when compared to those in the control group who reported an average increase of 0.10 points (sd = 2.45). Findings are discussed in terms of within- and between-group differences and suggestions for future research are provided.
DEXA Scan Body Fat Mass Distribution in Obese and Non-Obese Individuals and Risk of NAFLD—Analysis of 10,865 Individuals
Authors: Tan Caitlyn , Chan Kai En , Ng Cheng Han , Tseng Michael , Syn Nicholas , Tang Ansel Shao Pin , Chin Yip Han , Lim Wen Hui , Tan Darren Jun Hao , Chew Nicholas , Ong Elden Yen Hng , Koh Teng Kiat , Xiao Jieling , Chee Douglas , Valsan Arun , Siddiqui Mohammad Shadab , Huang Daniel , Noureddin Mazen , Wijarnpreecha Karn , Muthiah Mark D.
Published: October 2022

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide yet predicting non-obese NAFLD is challenging. Thus, this study investigates the potential of regional fat percentages obtained by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in accurately assessing NAFLD risk. Using the United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2018, multivariate logistic regression and marginal analysis were conducted according to quartiles of regional fat percentages, stratified by gender. A total of 23,752 individuals were analysed. Males generally showed a larger increase in marginal probabilities of NAFLD development than females, except in head fat, which had the highest predictive probabilities of non-obese NAFLD in females (13.81%, 95%CI: 10.82–16.79) but the lowest in males (21.89%, 95%CI: 20.12–23.60). Increased percent of trunk fat was the strongest predictor of both non-obese (OR: 46.61, 95%CI: 33.55–64.76, p < 0.001) and obese NAFLD (OR: 2.93, 95%CI: 2.07–4.15, p < 0.001), whereas raised percent gynoid and leg fat were the weakest predictors. Ectopic fat deposits are increased in patients with non-obese NAFLD, with greater increases in truncal fat over gynoid fat. As increased fat deposits in all body regions can increase odds of NAFLD, therapeutic intervention to decrease ectopic fat, particularly truncal fat, may decrease NAFLD risk.
The Quality of Life of Patients with Surgically Treated Colorectal Cancer: A Narrative Review
Authors: Świątkowski Filip , Górnicki Tomasz , Bułdyś Kacper , Chabowski Mariusz
Published: October 2022

Introduction. Quality of life is a topic increasingly being addressed by researchers. Due to the increasing incidence of colorectal cancer, this issue is particularly relevant. Despite the increasing number of publications on this topic each year, it still requires further research. The aim of this study was to analyze the available literature from the past 10 years, addressing the topic of QoL in patients with colorectal cancer which has been treated surgically. Material and methods. This review is based on 93 articles published between 2012 and 2022. It analyzes the impact of socioeconomic factors, the location and stage of the tumor, stoma and the method of surgical treatment on patients’ QoL and sexual functioning. Results. CRC has a negative impact on patients’ financial status, social functioning, pain and physical functioning. Patients with stage II or III cancer have an overall lower QoL than patients with stage I. The more proximally the lesion is located to the sphincters, the greater the negative impact on the QoL. There was a significant difference in favor of laparoscopic surgery compared with open surgery. In patients with a stoma, the QoL is lower compared with patients with preserved gastrointestinal tract continuity. The more time has passed since surgery, the more the presence of a stoma has a negative impact on QoL. Surgery for CRC negatively affects patients’ sex lives, especially in younger people and among men. Conclusions. This study may contribute to the identification of the factors that affect the QoL of patients with surgically treated colorectal cancer. This will allow even more effective and complete treatment, facilitating patients’ return to normal physical, mental and social functioning.
Characteristics of Synovial Fistula of the Ankle Joint: A Case Series
Authors: Park Chul-Hyun , Park Jeong Jin , Woo In Ha , Yan Hongfei , Lee Woo-Chun
Published: October 2022

(1) Background: Little is known about the etiology, clinical features, diagnosis methods, treatments, and the prognosis of synovial fistula of the ankle joint. The purpose of this study is to investigate the clinical features of synovial fistula of the ankle joint. (2) Methods: Between March 2003 and December 2018, 40 cysts associated with synovial fistula of the ankle joint were treated consecutively by two surgeons. Case histories, clinical manifestations, intraoperative findings, surgical treatment methods, and treatment outcomes were evaluated to characterize fistula-associated cysts. The clinical results were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS) and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot functional scores, preoperatively and at the last follow-up. (3) Results: The main complaints were ankle instability and pain (15 patients), pain only (15 patients), instability (seven patients), and cosmetic problems (three patients). Eleven patients had a cyst with an open skin wound, and eight of these patients had undergone surgery under a misdiagnosis of bursitis. Cysts were located anterior to the lateral malleolus in 22 cases, next to the lateral malleolus in 13 cases, posterior to the lateral malleolus in three cases, and across the entire lateral malleolus in two cases. Mean VAS and AOFAS scores improved from 5.2 (range, from 1 to 7) and 72.3 (range, from 65 to 87) preoperatively to 1.1 (range, from 0 to 3) and 93.6 (range, from 85 to 100), respectively, at final follow-up visits. (4) Conclusions: Cyst occurrence due to a synovial fistula should be considered when treating a cyst around the lateral malleolus. Fistula repair and reinforcement with fibular periosteum provides a good treatment option for cysts attributed to synovial fistula of the ankle that fail to respond to conservative treatment.
Association between Germline Single-Nucleotide Variants in ADME Genes and Major Molecular Response to Imatinib in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Patients
Authors: Estrada Natalia , Zamora Lurdes , Ferrer-Marín Francisca , Palomo Laura , García Olga , Vélez Patricia , De la Fuente Iris , Sagüés Miguel , Cabezón Marta , Cortés Montserrat , Vallansot Rolando Omar , Senín-Magán María Alicia , Boqué Concepción , Xicoy Blanca
Published: October 2022

Imatinib is the most common first-line tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) used to treat chronic-phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CP-CML). However, only a proportion of patients achieve major molecular response (MMR), so there is a need to find biological factors that aid the selection of the optimal therapeutic strategy (imatinib vs. more potent second-generation TKIs). The aim of this retrospective study was to understand the contribution of germline single-nucleotide variants (gSNVs) in the achievement of MMR with imatinib. In particular, a discovery cohort including 45 CP-CML patients was analyzed through the DMET array, which interrogates 1936 variants in 231 genes related to the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) process. Variants statistically significant in the discovery cohort were then tested in an extended and independent cohort of 137 CP-CML patients. Finally, a total of 7 gSNVs (ABCG1-rs492338, ABCB11-rs496550, ABCB11-rs497692, CYP2D6-rs1135840, CYP11B1-rs7003319, MAT1A-rs4934027 and SLC22A1-rs628031) and one haplotype in the ABCB11 gene were significantly associated with the achievement of MMR with first-line imatinibtreatment. In conclusion, we identified a genetic signature of response to imatinib in CP-CML patients that could be useful in selecting those patients that may benefit from starting imatinib as first-line therapy, therefore avoiding the toxicity related to second-generation TKIs.
Dry Eye Following Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chen Wei-Tsun , Chen Yu-Yen , Hung Man-Chen
Published: October 2022

This study investigates the dry eye effect after femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) and also compares the risk of postoperative dry eye between FLACS and manual cataract surgery (MCS). We searched various databases between 1 January 2000 and 15 October 2022 and included peer-reviewed clinical studies in our review. Dry eye parameters were extracted at baseline and postoperative day one, week one, one month, and three months. Parameters included were the ocular surface discomfort index (OSDI), tear secretion (tear meniscus height, Schirmer’s test), microscopic ocular surface damage (fluorescein staining), and tear stability (first and average tear breakup time). Additionally, the differences of each parameter at each time point were compared between FLACS and MCS. In total, six studies of 611 eyes were included. On postoperative day one, increased, pooled standardised mean differences (SMDs) were noted in the OSDI, tear secretion, tear film instability, and microscopic damage. During postoperative week one, dry eye worsened. Fortunately, dry eye achieved resolution afterwards and nearly returned to the baseline level at postoperative three months. When the parameters were compared between FLACS and MCS, those of FLACS had higher severities, but most were not statistically significant. Dry eye impact was approximately the same in FLACS and MCS at postoperative three months.
Escalation and De-Escalation of Antiplatelet Therapy after Acute Coronary Syndrome or PCI: Available Evidence and Implications for Practice
Authors: Gragnano Felice , Capolongo Antonio , Terracciano Fabrizia , Gargiulo Giuseppe , De Sio Vincenzo , Cesaro Arturo , Moscarella Elisabetta , Patti Giuseppe , Porto Italo , Esposito Giovanni , Angiolillo Dominick J. , Calabrò Paolo
Published: October 2022

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is the gold standard for the antithrombotic management of patients with an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Implementation of intensified or prolonged DAPT regimens has proven to lower the risk of ischemic events but at the expense of increased bleeding. Importantly, bleeding is a predictor of poor prognosis. Risk stratification and selection of tailored antiplatelet strategies to maximize the net clinical benefit in individual patients with ACS or undergoing PCI is therefore potentially beneficial. Recently, novel approaches including DAPT de-escalation or escalation have been proposed as possible alternatives to standard DAPT. These strategies, which are generally based on patient’s risk profile, genetics, and/or platelet function have been proposed to offer more tailored treatments in patients with ACS or PCI, with the ultimate goal of providing adequate ischemic protection while mitigating the risk of bleeding. This review summarizes the available evidence on DAPT de-escalation or escalation (both guided and unguided) and discusses the practical implications of these strategies in the contemporary management of patients with ACS and/or undergoing PCI.
Evaluation of Factors Associated with Adverse Drug Events in South Korea Using a Population-Based Database
Authors: Choi Eunkyeong , Kim Siin , Suh Hae Sun
Published: October 2022

This retrospective study aims to investigate the factors associated with the occurrence of ADEs using nationally representative claims data. All patients with at least one claim with diagnosis codes denoting potential ADE between 1 July 2015 and 31 December 2015 were included. Potential ADE was defined as ADE identified in the claims data, because it was not verified. The index date was defined as the date of the first claim with potential ADEs. Demographic data were collected at the index date, while data on comorbidities and number of medications used were collected six months before the index date. Multivariate logistic regression was used to explore the association between potential ADEs and several factors, including sex, age group, insurance type, comorbidities, and number of prescribed medications. Patients with potential ADEs were older, had more chronic diseases, and used more medications than those without potential ADEs. In the multivariate analysis, occurrence of potential ADEs was associated with age (≥65 years, odds ratio [OR] 1.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08–1.21), Medical Aid program (OR 1.37, 95% CI 1.27–1.47), Charlson Comorbidity Index scores (≥5, OR 2.87, 95% CI 2.56–3.20), and use of six or more medications (6–10 medications, OR 1.89, 95% CI 1.79–1.99). Age, Medical Aid program, comorbidities, and number of medications were associated with occurrence of potential ADEs.
Clinical Implication of Serum Adiponectin Levels in Adult Patients with Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Lee Sul-Hee , Bae Youin , Park Young-Lip
Published: October 2022

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is characterized by chronic, relapsing, pruritic inflammatory skin disease. Adiponectin has been reported to have anti-inflammatory effects not only on metabolic disorders but also on various inflammatory disorders. The study aimed to validate adiponectin as a potential biomarker for AD disease severity and treatment response. Seventy-five patients with AD and 28 healthy volunteers were enrolled in the study. Patient information, including Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) scores and pruritus numeric rating scales (NRSs), were collected. An enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was conducted to measure levels of serum adiponectin. Additionally, sera of patients treated with dupilumab were collected and measured at 16 and 52 weeks from baseline. Serum adiponectin levels were significantly lower in moderate and severe AD patients than in the control and mild AD patients. Serum adiponectin level was negatively correlated with the EASI score and pruritus NRS. However, no significant changes were observed according to biologic treatment for AD. Low serum adiponectin levels are associated with moderate to severe AD, suggesting a potential role for adiponectin as a biomarker for severity assessment of AD.
Unmet Needs in TAVR: Conduction Disturbances and Management of Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Auffret Vincent , Ridard Carine , Salerno Nadia , Sorrentino Sabato
Published: October 2022

Over the past two decades, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) swiftly evolved from a disrupting technology towards mainstream therapy in the field of severe symptomatic aortic stenosis. A series of randomized evaluations established its role in treating severe aortic stenosis patients across all surgical risk categories, paving the way for an extension of its indications to younger low-risk patients with a longer life expectancy. Therefore, managing comorbidities and limiting procedural complications, which may affect long-term outcomes, is of paramount importance. Among those, new-onset conduction disturbances and concomitant coronary artery disease remain two of the most debated issues. In the present review, we will discuss the incidence, prognostic impact, and unmet needs of patients with post-TAVR new-onset conduction disturbances and the ongoing challenges posed by the management of concomitant coronary artery disease.
Real-Life Experience with Oral Eliglustat in Patients with Gaucher Disease Previously Treated with Enzyme Replacement Therapy
Authors: Istaiti Majdolen , Becker-Cohen Michal , Dinur Tama , Revel-Vilk Shoshana , Zimran Ari
Published: October 2022

Three types of enzyme replacement therapies (ERTs) and two substrate reduction therapies (SRTs) are approved for symptomatic patients with type 1 Gaucher disease (GD1). Eliglustat is the second SRT approved, yet the first to be approved as first-line therapy for any adult patients with compatible CYP2D6 metabolizer genotype. Herein we report safety and efficacy data of the first 29 patients switched from ERT to eliglustat from the Gaucher Unit at Shaare Zedek Medical Center (SZMC) between 07/2017 and 06/2022; the median (range) time on ERT was 13 (0.66–30) years, and the median (range) time on eliglustat was 7 (1–52) months. Most patients switched due to oral preference or sub-optimal response to low-dose ERT. Twelve patients stopped eliglustat after a median (range) of 4 (1–18) months; 11 due to adverse events (AEs) and one due to personal request. There were no drug-related serious AEs and no drug-related cardiac events. Most AEs were mild and transient, mainly dyspepsia. Efficacy achievements were reflected by maintaining stability. We concluded that switching from ERT to eliglustat is safe if choosing the appropriate patients. Reassuring patients to tolerate early AEs may reduce discontinuation. Following the response and compliance to therapy is important to ensure long-term efficacy.
Gynecological Diagnosis and Treatment of Ectopic Ureter Insertion into Vagina: Analysis of Five Cases and a Literature Review
Authors: Wang Qijing , Wu Zaigui , Zhang Fengbin , Akbar Rubab , Lou Yiyun , Zhou Jianhong , Ruan Fei
Published: October 2022

An ectopic ureter is a ureter that does not correctly connect to the trigone of the bladder and drains outside of the bladder. Here, we presented five cases of ectopic ureter opening into the vagina, whose clinical symptoms and malformations were rarely described in previous case reports. All five patients were hospitalized with complaints of gynecologic disease. Three of the five cases did not present the typical symptoms of urinary incontinence. Three of these cases showed congenital malformations of the female genital tract. Four cases were diagnosed in adulthood. All patients were analyzed using various imaging examinations. This study suggests that the ectopic ureter should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a pelvic mass in a patient with urinary and reproductive system abnormalities. It is essential to comprehensively evaluate complex malformations of the genitourinary system with multiple imaging tests.
The Cognitive Profile of Gifted Children Compared to Those of Their Parents: A Descriptive Study Using the Wechsler Scales
Authors: Pezzuti Lina , Farese Morena , Dawe James , Lauriola Marco
Published: October 2022

The manifestation of performance at the top of a given talent distribution constitutes giftedness. While identifying talented youths based on IQ has been the focus of previous research, examining their cognitive profile is a new endeavor. The present study assessed the IQ and cognitive abilities of a sample of gifted Italian children and compared them to their parents using the Wechsler scales. Fifty-nine gifted children aged 6 to 14 years were administered the WISC-IV while their parents (N = 53 mothers and N = 55 fathers) took the WAIS-IV. The gifted children (IQ ≥ 120) obtained particularly high scores in verbal comprehension (VCI) and visual-perceptual reasoning (PRI). More than two-thirds of the mothers and over half of the fathers also achieved an IQ ≥ 120. The gifted children scored significantly higher than both mothers and fathers in VCI and PRI. The mothers were significantly higher than their children in the processing speed domain. Correlational analyses highlighted that children’s IQ was positively related to that of their mothers. In keeping with the literature, the cognitive profile of gifted children was found to vary across cognitive abilities. It follows that the General Ability Index was the WISC-IV index that best matched the potential of gifted youths. Consistent with previous research, our study suggests that intellectual abilities, especially working memory and processing speed, are maintained and presumably passed on from one generation to the next.
An Improved Underwater Recognition Algorithm for Subsea X-Tree Key Components Based on Deep Transfer Learning
Authors: Zhao Wangyuan , Han Fenglei , Su Zhihao , Qiu Xinjie , Zhang Jiawei , Zhao Yiming
Published: October 2022

It is promising to detect or maintain subsea X-trees using a remote operated vehicle (ROV). In this article, an efficient recognition model for the subsea X-tree component is proposed to assist in the autonomous operation of unmanned underwater maintenance vehicles: an efficient network module, SX(subsea X-tree)-DCANet, is designed to replace the CSPBlock of YOLOv4-tiny with ResBlock-D and combine with the ECANet attention module. In addition, two-stage transform learning is used for the insufficiency of underwater target recognition samples as well as the overfitting caused by the subsea target recognition model, thereby providing an effective learning strategy for traditional subsea target recognition. A mosaic data augment algorithm and cosine annealing algorithm are also utilized for better accuracy of network training. The results of ablation studies show that the mean Average Precision (mAP) and speed of the improved algorithm are increased by 1.58% and 10.62%, respectively. Multiple field experiments on the laboratory, experimental pool, and the hydro-electric station prove that the recognition algorithm and training strategy present in this article can be well applied in subsea X-tree component recognition, and can effectively promote the development of intelligent subsea oil extraction projects.
Investigation of Different Methods of Intraoperative Graft Perfusion Assessment during Kidney Transplantation for the Prediction of Delayed Graft Function: A Prospective Pilot Trial
Authors: Gerken Andreas L. H. , Keese Michael , Weiss Christel , Krücken Hanna-Sophie , Pecher Katarina A. P. , Ministro Augusto , Rahbari Nuh N. , Reissfelder Christoph , Rother Ulrich , Yazdani Babak , Kälsch Anna-Isabelle , Krämer Bernhard K. , Schwenke Kay
Published: October 2022

Delayed graft function (DGF) after renal transplantation is a relevant clinical problem affecting long-term organ function. The early detection of patients at risk is crucial for postoperative monitoring and treatment algorithms. In this prospective cohort study, allograft perfusion was evaluated intraoperatively in 26 kidney recipients by visual and formal perfusion assessment, duplex sonography, and quantitative microperfusion assessment using O2C spectrometry and ICG fluorescence angiography. The O2C tissue spectrometry device provides a quantitative method of microperfusion assessment that can be employed during kidney transplantation as an easy-to-use and highly sensitive alternative to ICG fluorescence angiography. Intraoperative microvascular flow and velocity in the allograft cortex after reperfusion predicted DGF with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 82%. Threshold values of 57 A.U. for microvascular flow and 13 A.U. for microvascular velocity were identified by an ROC analysis. This study, therefore, confirmed that impairment of microperfusion of the allograft cortex directly after reperfusion was a key indicator for the occurrence of DGF after kidney transplantation. Our results support the combined use of intraoperative duplex sonography, for macrovascular quality control, and quantitative microperfusion assessment, such as O2C spectrometry, for individual risk stratification to guide subsequent postoperative management.
Cardiolipin Antibody: A Potential Biomarker for Depression
Authors: Costa Renzo , Fatourou Evangelia , Hoppensteadt Debra , Fareed Jawed , Halaris Angelos
Published: October 2022

Background: Inflammation plays a pivotal role in the etiopathology of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), at least in a subset of patients. It is crucial to first establish which specific inflammatory biomarkers are of clinical utility. Anti-cardiolipin antibody (aCL IgM) is an inflammatory marker that has the potential to be such a candidate but there are insufficient studies to confirm this potential. Objective: To investigate the baseline titer level and the longitudinal progression of plasma titers of aCL IgM in MDD subjects receiving antidepressant therapy in comparison to healthy control (HC) subjects; to determine if changes in aCL IgM plasma titers correlate to changes in depressive symptoms; and, to ascertain if baseline aCL IgM plasma titers could predict treatment response. Methods: Forty-eight medically healthy outpatients diagnosed with MDD were enrolled in one of two groups in two sequentially conducted clinical trials. In Group-E, patients received a 12-week regimen of escitalopram (n = 20). Those in Group-Q received a 12-week regimen of quetiapine (n = 28). The main outcome measure was plasma aCL IgM titers, the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D17) and the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (HAM-A). There were 16 HC subjects. Results: When Group-Q and Group-E participants were grouped together (n = 48), MDD subjects had an elevated baseline aCL IgM (19.9 μg/mL) compared to HC subjects (8.32 μg/mL) (p = 0.006). aCL IgM correlated significantly with HAM-D17 scores at baseline in MDD subjects (p = 0.0185, r = 0.296). Examining the individual groups, Group-Q MDD patients had a significantly elevated baseline aCL IgM (p = 0.008) while Group-E’s MDD patients did not. On the other hand, only Group-E MDD patients showed a significant correlation at baseline between aCL IgM and HAM-A score (p = 0.0392, r = 0.4327); they also showed a significant inverse correlation between week 12 HAMD-17 Item #10 (Anxiety, Psychic) and week 12 aCL IgM titer (p = 0.0268, r = −0.5516). Conclusions: MDD patients had significantly higher plasma titers of aCL IgM when compared to HC subjects. Moreover, at baseline, the higher the aCL IgM titer, the higher the depression severity, as measured by HAMD-17 score. However, this study did not demonstrate that aCL IgM titers changed significantly throughout a 12-week course of antidepressant treatment and revealed no correlation between changes in depressive symptoms and changes in aCL IgM titers. Baseline aCL IgM could not predict treatment response. We conclude that, despite lacking predictive ability as regards treatment response, plasma titers of aCL IgM have a diagnostic potential in MDD that necessitates further exploration.
Accounting Comparability, Conservatism, Executive Compensation-Performance, and Information Quality
Authors: Daryaei Abbas , Fattahi Yasin , Askarany Davood , Askary Saeed , Mollazamani Mahdad
Published: October 2022

This paper investigates the relationship between accounting comparability, executive compensation, conditional and unconditional conservatism, and accounting information quality. The findings suggest that conditional conservatism and accounting comparability have a positive and significant impact on executive compensation. Moreover, accrual earnings management can strengthen the relationship between accounting comparability and executive compensation, whereas this is not the case with actual earnings management. Unconditional conservatism, however, does not significantly influence executive compensation. In the end, determining the correlation between earnings management and conservatism reveals that executives use conditional conservatism to perform opportunistic behaviours and gain more compensation. In light of the current results, it is expected that the assimilation of standardisation processes and their use in conjunction with existing features will enhance information quality, greater reliability of financial reports, and protect public interests.
A Model for Accurate Determination of Environmental Parameters in Indoor Zoological and Botanical Gardens Supporting Efficient Species Management
Authors: Corral-Pesquera León Latif , García-Manchón Jonathan , Morón-Elorza Pablo
Published: October 2022

The detailed evaluation of environmental parameters can be a great tool for the optimal selection and location of vegetable species, not only in vegetable production facilities and greenhouses but also in zoological and botanical gardens, which frequently maintain delicate and exotic plant species with strict environmental requirements in immersive exhibits where conditions can vary remarkably. This study, developed at an indoor zoological garden (Biodomo—Parque de las Ciencias de Granada, Spain), evaluates a sampling protocol for the determination of seven environmental parameters: daily light integral (DLI) was determined at nine different locations of the facility using a portable Light Quantum SQ-500 sensor; air temperature, atmospheric pressure, and air relative humidity were measured using a fixed ATMOS14 sensor; and soil temperature, soil water content, and soil conductivity were determined using a fixed TEROS12 sensor. Values recorded for DLI showed statistically significant variations across the nine different sampling locations, as well as between the different months in all sampling spots. Significant variations were also detected across the 12 months of study for the rest of environmental parameters evaluated, and correlations were found between the studied parameters, with the correlation between soil and air temperature the strongest (rs = 0.758) and soil temperature significantly superior to air temperature. The methodology described in this study can be easily reproduced in similar indoor zoological and botanical facilities, increasing the knowledge of the environmental conditions, and allowing corrections that could improve species selection, location, and management.
Centennial Change and Source–Sink Interaction Process of Traditional Agricultural Landscape: Case from Xin’an Traditional Cherry Cultivation System (1920–2020)
Authors: Li Maolin , Zhang Yongxun , Miao Changhong , He Lulu , Chen Jiatao
Published: October 2022

In contrast to modern agriculture, long-standing traditional agricultural practices such as agricultural heritage systems (AHS) are important inspirations for promoting harmonious human–land relations. However, some AHS have been in danger as their traditional agricultural landscapes (TALs) were changed by rapid modernization and urbanization. Thus, how do we figure out the change processes? What conservation measures can be taken? Taking the Xin’an Traditional Cherry Cultivation System in the loess hilly areas of Henan Province as a case, this study introduced the source–sink landscape theory to analyze the structure and process of the TAL during 1920–2020. Results show that, during 1920–1950, the traditional rural landscape (TRL) and the agricultural (natural) ecological landscape (ANEL) in the TAL were relatively balanced because they were source and sink to each other. Since 1985, the source expansion and sink resistance of both TRL and ANEL have been greatly hindered by the sink growth of modern village landscapes (MVL). As the core source landscape, TRL needs salvage protection for inheriting local characteristics by effective measures. TAL conservation should highlight rurality preservation through expanding the protection scope of TRL, endowing the MVL with more indigenous cultural features, etc. All these may contribute to rural vitalization and sustainable development.
Agricultural Production Networks and Upgrading from a Global–Local Perspective: A Review
Authors: Yang Xinyu , Liu Weidong
Published: October 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic, extreme temperatures and the Russia–Ukraine conflict have exposed deficiencies in global agricultural production capacity and governance systems, which left low-income countries and regions to face more severe food insecurity. Thus, there is an urgent need for agricultural upgrading and the establishment of a more sustainable agricultural system. Although there is a large body of literature with rich theoretical and empirical case studies, there is still a lack of systematic analysis of these studies, and the summary of global agricultural production networks and the agricultural upgrading process is not sufficient. This article will first set up an organisational framework of global agricultural production networks and explore the implications of governance and agricultural upgrading within this framework. It will then summarise the local agricultural upgrading processes on global, national and local scales based on a review of the existing literature. The article argues that agricultural upgrading in the context of global linkages is mainly driven by private-sector standards while the state also plays multiple roles. Moreover, in the embedding process of global agricultural production networks into local areas, local actors can promote agricultural upgrading through capacity building and organisational innovation. This review has implications for the economic, social and environmental sustainability of agriculture in developing countries, and provides a reference for future research.
The Gender Gap in Land Sciences: A Review of Women’s Presence on the Editorial Boards of Peer-Reviewed Journals
Authors: Mohammadi Hamidi Somayeh , Rezaei-Pandari Mohammad , Fakheran Sima , Fürst Christine
Published: October 2022

Women are disadvantaged across all stages of academic publishing. In science, contribution to editorial boards of journals is evidence of a high reputation within a specialty or field. Therefore, the low presence of women on editorial boards can be considered a disadvantage indicator for women in academia. This study aims to highlight the gap in women’s contributions in land science journals. We assessed the gender composition of editorial boards in 60 peer-reviewed journals using systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and we obtained data on current and past editorial boards of these journals. The result shows that the current number of editorial board members is 5197 of which only 25.47 percent are women. Gender inequality is very evident in this group of journals to the extent that journals with a high impact factor indicate inequality that is even more than 75 percent. The results of the time series analysis have also shown that the presence of women on editorial boards has increased over the last decade, although this increase has been more in the Nordic countries. The geographical distribution of editorial board members is also quite unequal in the North and South, 83 percent of female editorial board members are from northern countries, while only 12 percent are from the global South. According to the results, there is still a long way to go to achieve gender equality, especially in the field of land science. Our results also support previous findings of a considerable gender difference in urban land science, geoscience community, biodiversity conservation, and veterinary sciences. Thus, the academic community, editors, and journals must take proactive measures to achieve gender balance.
On the Landscape Activity Measure Coupling Ecological Index and Public Vitality Index of UGI: The Case Study of Zhongshan, China
Authors: Zhang Xueling , Huang Ruoxuan , Yang Yixuan
Published: October 2022

In the context of high-quality urban development and the increasingly important role of urban green infrastructure (UGI) in public life, landscape activity (LA) has gradually become a dominant indicator for improving UGI quality and efficiency, as well as optimizing its environmental friendliness and meeting the recreational needs of the public. Relevant studies have shown that the ecological index (EI) and the public vitality index (PVI) can characterize LA from the perspectives of greening quality and public activities, respectively, and their simultaneous analysis can provide professional judgment and quantitative technical approaches for the LA analysis of UGI. At the same time, with the support of remote sensing, big data, GIS, and other spatial information data, the LA model coupling EI and PVI of UGI needs to be developed. First, this article established a research framework for UGI landscape activity, and by combining environmental remote sensing and location-based services (LBS) technology, a technical LA measurement strategy suitable for the coupled analysis of EI and PVI was formed. Then, based on the MATLAB platform and the entropy-weighted TOPSIS model, this research developed a fusion analysis algorithm of EI and PVI to establish the LA model, taking the central urban area of Zhongshan as a case study. Finally, four-quadrant classification and quantitative grading of LA were developed based on the ArcGIS platform. Empirical research showed that the UGI area of the study area was about 176.43 km2, and 160 UGI units were identified. The minimum LA value is 0.06, and the maximum is 0.85. The LA of UGI in the study area can be divided into three grades: low (0–0.24), medium (0.24–0.46), and high (0.46–0.85). Among them, the top 5% of UGI units mainly correspond to urban parks and waterfront greenways, and the bottom 5% mainly correspond to islands and farmland. The quantitative distribution of UGI in the four quadrants of LA in the study area is relatively balanced: among them, the number of high-quality developing types is the largest, accounting for 29.4%, and that of high-quality mature types is the least, accounting for 20.0%. This article forms a concise model and technical process for the LA of UGI, which can be used for its quantitative analysis and evaluation. It is expected that the research result will be significant for the high-quality construction of UGI and the sustainable development of the urban landscape in terms of research and exploration.
Effects of Rhizobium leguminosarum Thy2 on the Growth and Tolerance to Cadmium Stress of Wheat Plants
Authors: Maslennikova Dilara , Nasyrova Karina , Chubukova Olga , Akimova Ekaterina , Baymiev Andrey , Blagova Darya , Ibragimov Almaz , Lastochkina Oksana
Published: October 2022

Cadmium (Cd) stress is an obstacle for crop production, quality crops, and sustainable agriculture. An important role is played by the application of eco-friendly approaches to improve plant growth and stress tolerance. In the current study, a pre-sowing seed treatment with Rhizobium leguminosarum strains, isolated from the leguminous plants Phaseolus vulgaris (strain Pvu5), Vicia sylvatica (strain VSy12), Trifolium hybridium (strain Thy2), and T. pratense (strain TPr4), demonstrated different effects on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) plant growth under normal conditions. Among all tested strains, Thy2 significantly increased seed germination, seedling length, fresh and dry biomass, and leaf chlorophyll (Chl) content. Further analysis showed that Thy2 was capable of producing indole-3-acetic acid and siderophores and fixing nitrogen. Under Cd stress, Thy2 reduced the negative effect of Cd on wheat growth and photosynthesis and had a protective effect on the antioxidant system. This was expressed in the additional accumulation of glutathione and proline and the activation of glutathione reductase. In addition, Thy2 led to a significant reduction in oxidative stress, which was evidenced by the data on the stabilization of the ascorbate content and the activity of ascorbate peroxidase. In addition, Thy2 markedly reduced Cd-induced membrane lipid peroxidation and electrolyte leakage in the plants. Thus, the findings demonstrated the ability of the R. leguminosarum strain Thy2, isolated from T. hybridium nodules, to exert a growth-promoting and anti-stress effect on wheat plants. These results suggest that the Thy2 strain may enhance wheat plant growth by mitigating Cd stress, particularly through improving photosynthesis and antioxidant capacity and reducing the severity of oxidative damage. This may provide a basic and biological approach to use the Thy2 strain as a promising, eco-friendly candidate to combat Cd stress in wheat production.
Diethyl 1-(N-acetylamino)-1-(diphenylphosphinoyl)-1-phenylmethylphosphonate
Authors: Kuźnik Anna , Kozicka Dominika , Adamek Jakub
Published: October 2022

Diethyl 1-(N-acetylamino)-1-(diphenylphosphinoyl)-1-phenylmethylphosphonate was synthesized at room temperature, starting from 1-ethoxy derivative of diethyl 1-(N-acetylamino)-1-phenylmethylphosphonate via the corresponding phosphonium salt as a reactive intermediate in the Michaelis–Arbuzov-like reaction with methyl diphenylphosphinite. The structure of the compound obtained was confirmed by spectroscopic techniques (1H, 13C, 31P NMR, IR, and MS).