bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiac involvement in patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells of myotonic dystrophy type 1: unveiling the impact of voltage-gated sodium channels
Authors: Pierre Marion , Djemai Mohammed , Chapotte-Baldacci Charles-Albert , Pouliot Valérie , Puymirat Jack , Boutjdir Mohamed , Chahine Mohamed
Published: September 2023

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a genetic disorder that causes muscle weakness and myotonia. In DM1 patients, cardiac electrical manifestations include conduction defects and atrial fibrillation. DM1 results in the expansion of a CTG transcribed into CUG-containing transcripts that accumulate in the nucleus as RNA foci and alter the activity of several splicing regulators. The underlying pathological mechanism involves two key RNA-binding proteins (MBNL and CELF) with expanded CUG repeats that sequester MBNL and alter the activity of CELF resulting in spliceopathy and abnormal electrical activity. In the present study, we identified two DM1 patients with heart conduction abnormalities and characterized their hiPSC lines. Two differentiation protocols were used to investigate both the ventricular and the atrial electrophysiological aspects of DM1 and unveil the impact of the mutation on voltage-gated ion channels, electrical activity, and calcium homeostasis in DM1 cardiomyocytes derived from hiPSCs. Our analysis revealed the presence of molecular hallmarks of DM1, including the accumulation of RNA foci and sequestration of MBNL1 in DM1 hiPSC-CMs. We also observed mis-splicing of SCN5A and haploinsufficiency of DMPK. Furthermore, we conducted separate characterizations of atrial and ventricular electrical activity, conduction properties, and calcium homeostasis. Both DM1 cell lines exhibited reduced density of sodium and calcium currents, prolonged action potential duration, slower conduction velocity, and impaired calcium transient propagation in both ventricular and atrial cardiomyocytes. Notably, arrhythmogenic events were recorded, including both ventricular and atrial arrhythmias were observed in the two DM1 cell lines. These findings enhance our comprehension of the molecular mechanisms underlying DM1 and provide valuable insights into the pathophysiology of ventricular and atrial involvement.
Development of a speed breeding protocol with flowering gene investigation in pepper (Capsicum annuum)
Authors: Choi Hayoung , Back Seungki , Kim Geon Woo , Lee Kyeongseok , Venkatesh Jelli , Lee Hyo Beom , Kwon Jin-Kyung , Kang Byoung-Cheorl
Published: September 2023

Pepper (Capsicum spp.) is a vegetable and spice crop in the Solanaceae family with many nutritional benefits for human health. During several decades, horticultural traits, including disease resistance, yield, and fruit quality, have been improved through conventional breeding methods. Nevertheless, cultivar development is a time-consuming process because of the long generation time of pepper. Recently, speed breeding has been introduced as a solution for shorting the breeding cycle in long-day or day-neutral field crops, but there have been only a few studies on speed breeding in vegetable crops. In this study, a speed breeding protocol for pepper was developed by controlling the photoperiod and light quality. Under the condition of a low red (R) to far-red (FR) ratio of 0.3 with an extended photoperiod (Epp) of 20 h (95 ± 0 DAT), the time to first harvest was shortened by 75 days after transplant (DAT) compared to that of the control treatment (170 ± 2 DAT), suggesting that Epp with FR light is an essential factor for flowering in pepper. In addition, we established the speed breeding system in a greenhouse with a 20 h photoperiod and a 3.8 R:FR ratio and promoted the breeding cycle of C. annuum for 110 days from seed to seed. To explain the accelerated flowering response to the Epp and supplemented FR light, genome-wide association study (GWAS) and gene expression analysis were performed. As a result of the GWAS, we identified a new flowering gene locus for pepper and suggested four candidate genes for flowering (APETALA2 (AP2), WUSCHEL-RELATED HOMEOBOX4 (WOX4), FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT), and GIGANTEA (GI)). Through expression analysis with the candidate genes, it appeared that Epp and FR induced flowering by up-regulating the flowering-promoting gene GI and down-regulating FT. The results demonstrate the effect of a combination of Epp and FR light by genetic analysis of flowering gene expression. This is the first study that verifies gene expression patterns associated with the flowering responses of pepper in a speed breeding system. Overall, this study demonstrates that speed breeding can shorten the breeding cycle and accelerate genetic research in pepper through reduced generation time.
Breeding effects on durum wheat traits detected using GWAS and haplotype block analysis
Authors: Taranto F. , Esposito S. , Fania F. , Sica R. , Marzario S. , Logozzo G. , Gioia T. , De Vita P.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The recent boosting of genomic data in durum wheat (Triticum turgidum subsp. durum) offers the opportunity to better understand the effects of breeding on the genetic structures that regulate the expression of traits of agronomic interest. Furthermore, the identification of DNA markers useful for marker-assisted selection could also improve the reliability of technical protocols used for variety protection and registration.

Methods

Within this motivation context, 123 durum wheat accessions, classified into three groups: landraces (LR), ancient (OC) and modern cultivars (MC), were evaluated in two locations, for 34 agronomic traits, including UPOV descriptors, to assess the impact of changes that occurred during modern breeding.

Results

The association mapping analysis, performed with 4,241 SNP markers and six multi-locus-GWAS models, revealed 28 reliable Quantitative Trait Nucleotides (QTNs) related to plant morphology and kernel-related traits. Some important genes controlling flowering time and plant height were in linkage disequilibrium (LD) decay with QTNs identified in this study. A strong association for yellow berry was found on chromosome 6A (Q.Yb-6A) in a region containing the nadh-ubiquinone oxidoreductase subunit, a gene involved in starch metabolism. The Q.Kcp-2A harbored the PPO locus, with the associated marker (Ku_c13700_1196) in LD decay with Ppo-A1 and Ppo-A2. Interestingly, the Q.FGSGls-2B.1, identified by RAC875_c34512_685 for flag leaf glaucosity, mapped less than 1 Mb from the Epistatic inhibitors of glaucousness (Iw1), thus representing a good candidate for supporting the morphological DUS traits also with molecular markers. LD haplotype block approach revealed a higher diversity, richness and length of haploblocks in MC than OC and LR (580 in LR, 585 in OC and 612 in MC), suggesting a possible effect exerted by breeding programs on genomic regions associated with the agronomic traits.

Discussion

Our findings pave new ways to support the phenotypic characterization necessary for variety registration by using a panel of cost-effectiveness SNP markers associated also to the UPOV descriptors. Moreover, the panel of associated SNPs might represent a reservoir of favourable alleles to use in durum wheat breeding and genetics.
Effects of plant diversity, soil microbial diversity, and network complexity on ecosystem multifunctionality in a tropical rainforest
Authors: Chen Yanxuan , Huang Xiaobo , Lang Xuedong , Tang Rong , Zhang Rui , Li Shuaifeng , Su Jianrong
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Plant diversity and soil microbial diversity are important driving factors in sustaining ecosystem multifunctionality (EMF) in terrestrial ecosystems. However, little is known about the relative importance of plant diversity, soil microbial diversity, and soil microbial network complexity to EMF in tropical rainforests.

Methods

This study took the tropical rainforest in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, China as the research object, and quantified various ecosystem functions such as soil organic carbon stock, soil nutrient cycling, biomass production, and water regulation in the tropical rainforest to explore the relationship and effect of plant diversity, soil microbial diversity, soil microbial network complexity and EMF.

Results

Our results exhibited that EMF decreased with increasing liana species richness, soil fungal diversity, and soil fungal network complexity, which followed a trend of initially increasing and then decreasing with soil bacterial diversity while increasing with soil bacterial network complexity. Soil microbial diversity and plant diversity primarily affected soil nutrient cycling. Additionally, liana species richness had a significant negative effect on soil organic carbon stocks. The random forest model suggested that liana species richness, soil bacterial network complexity, and soil fungal network complexity indicated more relative importance in sustaining EMF. The structural equation model revealed that soil bacterial network complexity and tree species richness displayed the significantly positive effects on EMF, while liana species richness significantly affected EMF via negative pathway. We also observed that soil microbial diversity indirectly affected EMF through soil microbial network complexity. Soil bulk density had a significant and negative effect on liana species richness, thus indirectly influencing EMF. Simultaneously, we further found that liana species richness was the main indicator of sustaining EMF in a tropical rainforest, while soil bacterial diversity was the primary driving factor.

Discussion

Our findings provide new insight into the relationship between biodiversity and EMF in a tropical rainforest ecosystem and the relative contribution of plant and soil microibal diversity to ecosystem function with increasing global climate change.
Estimating yield-contributing physiological parameters of cotton using UAV-based imagery
Authors: Pokhrel Amrit , Virk Simerjeet , Snider John L. , Vellidis George , Hand Lavesta C. , Sintim Henry Y. , Parkash Ved , Chalise Devendra P. , Lee Joshua M. , Byers Coleman
Published: September 2023

Lint yield in cotton is governed by light intercepted by the canopy (IPAR), radiation use efficiency (RUE), and harvest index (HI). However, the conventional methods of measuring these yield-governing physiological parameters are labor-intensive, time-consuming and requires destructive sampling. This study aimed to explore the use of low-cost and high-resolution UAV-based RGB and multispectral imagery 1) to estimate fraction of IPAR (IPARf), RUE, and biomass throughout the season, 2) to estimate lint yield using the cotton fiber index (CFI), and 3) to determine the potential use of biomass and lint yield models for estimating cotton HI. An experiment was conducted during the 2021 and 2022 growing seasons in Tifton, Georgia, USA in randomized complete block design with five different nitrogen treatments. Different nitrogen treatments were applied to generate substantial variability in canopy development and yield. UAV imagery was collected bi-weekly along with light interception and biomass measurements throughout the season, and 20 different vegetation indices (VIs) were computed from the imagery. Generalized linear regression was performed to develop models using VIs and growing degree days (GDDs). The IPARf models had R2 values ranging from 0.66 to 0.90, and models based on RVI and RECI explained the highest variation (93%) in IPARf during cross-validation. Similarly, cotton above-ground biomass was best estimated by models from MSAVI and OSAVI. Estimation of RUE using actual biomass measurement and RVI-based IPARf model was able to explain 84% of variation in RUE. CFI from UAV-based RGB imagery had strong relationship (R2 = 0.69) with machine harvested lint yield. The estimated HI from CFI-based lint yield and MSAVI-based biomass models was able to explain 40 to 49% of variation in measured HI for the 2022 growing season. The models developed to estimate the yield-contributing physiological parameters in cotton showed low to strong performance, with IPARf and above-ground biomass having greater prediction accuracy. Future studies on accurate estimation of lint yield is suggested for precise cotton HI prediction. This study is the first attempt of its kind and the results can be used to expand and improve research on predicting functional yield drivers of cotton.
Wheat powdery mildew resistance: from gene identification to immunity deployment
Authors: Zou Shenghao , Xu Yang , Li Qianqian , Wei Yali , Zhang Youlian , Tang Dingzhong
Published: September 2023

Powdery mildew is one of the most devastating diseases on wheat and is caused by the obligate biotrophic phytopathogen Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici (Bgt). Due to the complexity of the large genome of wheat and its close relatives, the identification of powdery mildew resistance genes had been hampered for a long time until recent progress in large-scale sequencing, genomics, and rapid gene isolation techniques. Here, we describe and summarize the current advances in wheat powdery mildew resistance, emphasizing the most recent discoveries about the identification of genes conferring powdery mildew resistance and the similarity, diversity and molecular function of those genes. Multilayered resistance to powdery mildew in wheat could be used for counteracting Bgt, including durable, broad spectrum but partial resistance, as well as race-specific and mostly complete resistance mediated by nucleotide-binding and leucine rich repeat domain (NLR) proteins. In addition to the above mentioned layers, manipulation of susceptibility (S) and negative regulator genes may represent another layer that can be used for durable and broad-spectrum resistance in wheat. We propose that it is promising to develop effective and durable strategies to combat powdery mildew in wheat by simultaneous deployment of multilayered immunity.
Long-term nitrogen fertilizer management for enhancing use efficiency and sustainable cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Ma Yuanqi , Sun Hongchun , Yang Yurong , Li Zhao , Li Ping , Qiao Yuetong , Zhang Yongjiang , Zhang Ke , Bai Zhiying , Li Anchang , Li Cundong , Liu Liantao
Published: September 2023

Optimal management of nitrogen fertilizer profoundly impacts sustainable development by influencing nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and seed cotton yield. However, the effect of long-term gradient nitrogen application on the sandy loam soil is unclear. Therefore, we conducted an 8-year field study (2014–2021) using six nitrogen levels: 0 kg/hm2 (N0), 75 kg/hm2 (N1), 150 kg/hm2 (N2), 225 kg/hm2 (N3), 300 kg/hm2 (N4), and 375 kg/hm2 (N5). The experiment showed that 1) Although nitrogen application had insignificantly affected basic soil fertility, the soil total nitrogen (STN) content had decreased by 5.71%–19.67%, 6.67%–16.98%, and 13.64%–21.74% at 0-cm–20-cm, 20-cm–40-cm, and 40-cm–60-cm soil layers, respectively. 2) The reproductive organs of N3 plants showed the highest nitrogen accumulation and dry matter accumulation in both years. Increasing the nitrogen application rate gradually decreased the dry matter allocation ratio to the reproductive organs. 3) The boll number per unit area of N3 was the largest among all treatments in both years. On sandy loam, the most optional nitrogen rate was 190 kg/hm2–270 kg/hm2 for high seed cotton yield with minimal nitrogen loss and reduced soil environment pollution.
Application of diffusion tensor imaging in the diagnosis of post-stroke aphasia: a meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Zhu Weiming , Deng Shizhe , Jiang Hailun , Zhang Jieying , Li Boxuan , Liu Wei , Jia Qingqing , Liu Wei , Meng Zhihong
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) indicators of different white matter (WM) fibers and brain region lesions for post-stroke aphasia (PSA) are inconsistent in existing studies. Our study examines the consistency and differences between PSA tests performed with DTI. In addition, obtaining consistent and independent conclusions between studies was made possible by utilizing DTI in PSA assessment.

Methods

In order to gather relevant studies using DTI for diagnosing PSA, we searched the Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and CNKI databases. Based on the screening and evaluation of the included studies, the meta-analysis was used to conduct a quantitative analysis. Narrative descriptions were provided for studies that met the inclusion criteria but lacked data.

Results

First, we reported on the left hemisphere. The meta-analysis showed that fractional anisotropy (FA) of the arcuate fasciculus (AF) and superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF), inferior frontal-occipital fasciculus (IFOF), inferior longitudinal fasciculus (ILF), and uncinate fasciculus (UF) were decreased in the PSA group in comparison with the healthy controls (p < 0.00001). However, in the comparison of axial diffusivity (AD), there was no statistically significant difference in white matter fiber tracts in the dual-stream language model of the PSA group. Elevated radial diffusivity (RD) was seen only in the IFOF and ILF (PIFOF = 0.01; PILF = 0.05). In the classic Broca’s area, the FA of the PSA group was decreased (p < 0.00001) while the apparent diffusion coefficient was elevated (p = 0.03). Secondly, we evaluated the white matter fiber tracts in the dual-stream language model of the right hemisphere. The FA of the PSA group was decreased only in the IFOF (p = 0.001). AD was elevated in the AF and UF (PAF < 0.00001; PUF = 0.009). RD was elevated in the AF and UF (PAF = 0.01; PUF = 0.003). The other fiber tracts did not undergo similar alterations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, DTI is vital for diagnosing PSA because it detects WM changes effectively, but it still has some limitations. Due to a lack of relevant language scales and clinical manifestations, diagnosing and differentiating PSA independently remain challenging.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=365897.
Cortical thickness in the right medial frontal gyrus predicts planning performance in healthy children and adolescents
Authors: Kollndorfer Kathrin , Novak Astrid , Nenning Karl-Heinz , Fischmeister Florian Ph S. , Seidl Rainer , Langs Georg , Kasprian Gregor , Prayer Daniela , Bartha-Doering Lisa
Published: September 2023

The ability to plan is an important part of the set of the cognitive skills called “executive functions.” To be able to plan actions in advance is of great importance in everyday life and constitutes one of the major key features for academic as well as economic success. The present study aimed to investigate the neuroanatomical correlates of planning in normally developing children, as measured by the cortical thickness of the prefrontal cortex. Eighteen healthy children and adolescents underwent structural MRI examinations and the Tower of London (ToL) task. A multiple regression analysis revealed that the cortical thickness of the right caudal middle frontal gyrus (cMFG) was a significant predictor of planning performance. Neither the cortical thickness of any other prefrontal area nor gender were significantly associated with performance in the ToL task. The results of the present exploratory study suggest that the cortical thickness of the right, but not the left cMFG, is positively correlated with performance in the ToL task. We, therefore, conclude that increased cortical thickness may be more beneficial for higher-order processes, such as information integration, than for lower-order processes, such as the analysis of external information.
Parenting style and children emotion management skills among Chinese children aged 3–6: the chain mediation effect of self-control and peer interactions
Authors: Li Dexian , Li Wencan , Zhu Xingchen
Published: September 2023

Drawing on ecosystem theory, which is based on the interaction of family environment, individual characteristics, and social adaptation, this study aimed to examine the effects of parenting style on emotion management skills and the mediating roles of self-control and peer interactions among Chinese children aged 3–6 years. Some studies have investigated the relationship between parenting style and emotion management skills. However, research on the underlying mechanisms is still deficient. A sample of 2,303 Chinese children completed the PSDQ-Short Version, the Self-Control Teacher Rating Questionnaire, the Peer Interaction Skills Scale, and the Emotion Management Skills Questionnaire. The results show that: (1) Authoritarian parenting style negatively predicted children’s emotion management skills, self-control, and peer interactions; (2) Authoritative parenting style positively predicted children’s emotion management skills, self-control, and peer interactions; (3) Structural equation models indicated that self-control and peer interactions partially mediated the effects of authoritarian and authoritative parenting styles. The parenting style of Chinese children aged 3–6 years is related to emotion management skills, and self-control and peer interactions have chain mediating effects between parenting style and children’s emotion management skills. These results provide further guidance for the prevention and intervention of emotional and mental health problems in children.
Agency in avoidant personality disorder: a narrative review
Authors: Weme Andrea Varga , Sørensen Kristine Dahl , Binder Per-Einar
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Avoidant personality disorder (AvPD) is a highly prevalent personality disorder, especially in clinical settings, yet scarcely researched. People diagnosed with AvPD have severe impairments in functioning and suffer greatly, yet we still lack meta-analytic evidence for therapy and only a few RCTs are conducted. Patient factors are the most important for outcome in therapy, in general. Lack of agency might be a core deficit in people diagnosed with AvPD. Their conditions might be improved if we understand their agency better. We review previous research regarding psychological mechanisms and interpersonal relationships that facilitate or hinder agency in AvPD in daily life and psychotherapy.

Methods

Summarizing original literature in a narrative review with reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

People diagnosed with AvPD seem to have significant impairments in their sense of agency due to a lack of emotional awareness, an overweight of inhibiting vs. activating emotions, and difficulties regulating emotions. Difficulties also seem related to high levels of attachment avoidance and fear, creating strong ambivalence in social needs, in addition to a strong tendency to subordinate to others. A weak sense of self with a poor narrative, self-doubt, and harsh self-critique makes a reflexive and intentional stand increasingly difficult for these people.

Conclusion

This review gives a clinically meaningful understanding of core strengths and deficits in the personality functioning of AvPD that can help clinicians map out important therapeutic work, identify barriers to client-agency in therapy, and work through relational difficulties in the therapeutic alliance.
The prevalent factors of anxiety in women undergoing mammography
Authors: Jaafar Sidek Mohamed Ariff , Amajid Kanchlla , Loh Yi Sheng , Rosli Muhammad Ariff , Hashim Iffah Syahirah , Mohd Suffian Nur Ashiqin , Abdullah Norlia , Midin Marhani
Published: September 2023

Background

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Malaysia. Anxiety is one factor that deters women from participating in mammography. This study aimed to assess the anxiety level and its associated factors in women undergoing mammography.

Methods

A three-month cross-sectional study was conducted using self-administered questionnaires, encompassing socio-demographic details, clinical characteristics, and the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 57 years old (SD ±10.098). Repeat mammograms consisted of 48.8% of the participants. One-third (35.7%) of them had a history of breast disease. Most participants (84.5%) did not have a positive family history of breast cancer. The proportion of participants with moderate and high anxiety levels was 41.8%. The cause of anxiety was mainly due to the fear of the results (69%), while familiarity with the procedure reduced anxiety among respondents. Socio-demographic and clinical factors were not significantly associated with anxiety levels. However, a statistically significant positive correlation was found between state and trait anxiety scores (r = 0.568, p = 0.001, n = 213).

Limitations

The urban setting and absence of questions on the location of origin in the study may have excluded data from the rural population. This may have prevented a true representation of the Malaysian population.

Conclusion

The findings suggest a better understanding of the procedures involved as well as the subsequent disease management would be beneficial in alleviating anxiety prior to, during, and post-mammogram.
Comprehensive investigations of cerebral hemodynamic responses in CSVD patients with mental disorders: a pilot study
Authors: Wen Dan , Xu Yong
Published: September 2023

Although a portion of patients with cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) present mental disorders, there is currently a lack of appropriate technologies to evaluate brain functions that are relevant to neurovascular coupling. Furthermore, there are no established objective criteria for diagnosing and distinguishing CSVD-induced mental disorders and psychiatric diseases. In this study, we report the first comprehensive investigation of the cerebral hemodynamics of CSVD patients who also presented with mental disorders. Two CSVD patients with similar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) outcomes but with non-identical mental symptoms participated in this study. The patients were instructed to perform the verbal fluency task (VFT), high-level cognition task (HCT), as well as voluntary breath holding (VBH). A functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) was used to measure the cerebral oxygenation responses. Additionally, a diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS) was used to measure the cerebral blood flow (CBF) responses. Both technologies were also applied to a healthy subject for comparison. The fNIRS results showed that both CSVD patients presented abnormal cerebral oxygenation responses during the VFT, HCT, and VBH tasks. Moreover, the patient with cognition impairment showed fluctuations in CBF during these tasks. In contrast, the patient without cognition impairment mostly presented typical CBF responses during the tasks, which was consistent with the healthy subject. The cognitive impairment in CSVD patients may be due to the decoupling of the neurons from the cerebrovascular, subsequently affecting the autoregulation capacity. The results of the fNIRS and DCS combined provide a comprehensive evaluation of the neurovascular coupling and, hence, offer great potential in diagnosing cerebrovascular or psychiatric diseases.
Is there a role for citizen science in death and dying research?
Authors: Wilkinson Clare , Llewellyn Alison , McCabe Candy
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought conversations about death and dying to the fore in a way not experienced for generations. This raises questions around perceptions of death and dying; the role of healthcare and the community in care; and the use of digital media for information and support. Public engagement can provoke a two-way conversation between researchers and the public and includes techniques that can engage the community not only with the topic but also in research. This perspective article considers the potential role of citizen science in death and dying research, including considerations around its potential benefits and constraints.
Hematocrit and lactate trends help predict outcomes in trauma independent of CT and other clinical parameters
Authors: Staziaki Pedro V. , Qureshi Muhammad M. , Maybury Aaron , Gangasani Neha R. , LeBedis Christina A. , Mercier Gustavo A. , Anderson Stephan W.
Published: September 2023

Background

Hematocrit and lactate have an established role in trauma as indicators of bleeding and cell death, respectively. The wide availability of CT imaging and clinical data poses the question of how these can be used in combination to predict outcomes.

Purpose

To assess the utility of hematocrit or lactate trends in predicting intensive care unit (ICU) admission and hospital length of stay (LOS) in patients with torso trauma combined with clinical parameters and injury findings on CT.

Materials and Methods

This was a single-center retrospective study of adults with torso trauma in one year. Trends were defined as a unit change per hour. CT findings and clinical parameters were explanatory variables. Outcomes were ICU admission and hospital LOS. Multivariate logistic and negative binomial regression models were used to calculate the odds ratio (OR) and incident rate ratio (IRR).

Results

Among 840 patients, 561 (72% males, age 39 ± 18) were included, and 168 patients (30%) were admitted to the ICU. Decreasing hematocrit trend [OR 2.54 (1.41–4.58), p = 0.002] and increasing lactate trend [OR 3.85 (1.35–11.01), p = 0.012] were associated with increased odds of ICU admission. LOS median was 2 (IQR: 1–5) days. Decreasing hematocrit trend [IRR 1.37 (1.13–1.66), p = 0.002] and increasing lactate trend [2.02 (1.43–2.85), p < 0.001] were associated with longer hospital LOS.

Conclusion

Hematocrit and lactate trends may be helpful in predicting ICU admission and LOS in torso trauma independent of organ injuries on CT, age, or admission clinical parameters.
The group dynamics sparking social change: how group value in diversity predicts interactions with a deviant
Authors: Koudenburg Namkje , Jans Lise
Published: September 2023

Deviants are pivotal to sparking social change but their influence is often hindered by group dynamics that serve to maintain the status quo. This paper examines the influence of a group's value in diversity in deviant's ability to spark social change, with a unique focus on the experience and anticipation of group dynamics that enable minority influence. Hypotheses were tested in three studies (NTotal = 674), which varied in their use of ad-hoc conversation groups or existing friend groups, and whether deviants were newcomers, or existing group members. We demonstrated social influence of a vegan deviant increased to the extent that participants perceived their group to value diversity. Furthermore, group value in diversity related to experienced and anticipated group dynamics that enabled minority influence: decreased conformity pressure, increased attentive listening, and, importantly, an increased search for agreement with the deviant. We discuss the importance of studying group dynamics for understanding what valuing diversity entails.
Effect of fish density on biological production in aquaponics combining lettuce hydroponics and loach aquaculture for controlled ecological life support systems in space
Authors: Kitaya Yoshiaki , Kawamoto Takashige , Endo Ryosuke , Shibuya Toshio
Published: September 2023

There is a need to develop production technology that effectively uses limited water and other resources to create a stable food supply in space. Aquaponics, which combine hydroponics and aquaculture, is expected to be an efficient system for producing crops and animal proteins. This system sustains the reuse of water and balances nutrient elements between both cultures using dissolved elements in fish excrement for plant growth. To evaluate the effect of fish density on biological production and nitrogen usage efficiency in aquaponics combining lettuce hydroponics and loach aquaculture, we investigated the growth performance of lettuce plants and loach fish. We focused on the balance of nutrient elements, especially nitrogen flow in the system. As a result, we found that lettuce grew in aquaponics with a half-strength standard solution with an optimal combination of the number of plants and fish as well as hydroponics with a standard solution. Increasing the density of loach fish and lettuce plants can increase the total biological production of fish and plants. However, it will be important to control both fish and plant densities to increase nitrogen recovery in aquaponics with a high fish density.
External mechanical perturbations challenge postural stability in dogs
Authors: Lutonsky Christiane , Peham Christian , Mucha Marion , Reicher Bianca , Gaspar Rita , Tichy Alexander , Bockstahler Barbara
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to explore the effect of external mechanical perturbations on postural stability (PS) in dogs using the body center of pressure (COP). Thirteen sound adult dogs were included in this study. PS was tested during quiet standing on a pressure measurement plate. The conditions included a standard standing measurement and external mechanical perturbations conducted using six settings on a motorized training platform with different intensities of speed and amplitude. Measurement conditions were compared using linear mixed-effects models, followed by multiple comparisons using Sidak’s alpha correction procedure. Compared with the standing measurement, external mechanical perturbations resulted in a significant increase in almost all COP parameters, indicating a challenge for the PS. Furthermore, an increase in amplitude had a greater effect than an increase in speed, whereas the combination of the highest intensities of amplitude and speed was not well tolerated by the dogs. The mediolateral COP displacement was significantly greater than the craniocaudal COP displacement during standing measurement and conditions with a small amplitude, whereas no significant difference was observed during settings with an increased amplitude. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate the effects of a balance training device in dogs. Therefore, the intensity of the training programs on motorized platforms or similar devices can be controlled by the wobbling amplitude of the platform.
Implementation Aspects in Regularized Structural Equation Models
Authors: Robitzsch Alexander
Published: September 2023

This article reviews several implementation aspects in estimating regularized single-group and multiple-group structural equation models (SEM). It is demonstrated that approximate estimation approaches that rely on a differentiable approximation of non-differentiable penalty functions perform similarly to the coordinate descent optimization approach of regularized SEMs. Furthermore, using a fixed regularization parameter can sometimes be superior to an optimal regularization parameter selected by the Bayesian information criterion when it comes to the estimation of structural parameters. Moreover, the widespread penalty functions of regularized SEM implemented in several R packages were compared with the estimation based on a recently proposed penalty function in the Mplus software. Finally, we also investigate the performance of a clever replacement of the optimization function in regularized SEM with a smoothed differentiable approximation of the Bayesian information criterion proposed by O’Neill and Burke in 2023. The findings were derived through two simulation studies and are intended to guide the practical implementation of regularized SEM in future software pieces.
Demographic Change and Inequality in the Korean Farm Income
Authors: Min Sunhyung
Published: September 2023

This study examines the impact of demographic shifts on income inequality among farm households over an 18-year period, from 2003 to 2021. Our principal aim is to determine whether changes in income inequality are driven more by intra-group changes in age/household size groups or by changes between these groups. Furthermore, the study aims to understand which age/household size groups are associated with changes in income inequality. The methodology of this study involves using the generalized entropy (GE) index, which allows for the decomposition of inequality within and between population subgroups. The study divides the total population into subgroups based on age and household size and analyzes both static and dynamic inequality. Results show that (i) the within-group effect for static farm income inequality is more significant than the between-group effect. (ii) On the other hand, for changes in inequality (dynamic inequality), the between-group effect in the case of age and the within-group effect in the case of household size are important. (iii) Changes in income inequality are more related to structural changes in the age group of farmers than to the size of household.
Determination of Genetic Diversity of Some Upland and Sea Island Cotton Genotypes Using High-Resolution Capillary Electrophoresis Gel
Authors: Aydin Adnan
Published: September 2023

Cotton is a major source of natural fibre for the global textile industry and is also an important oilseed crop. Cotton fibre is the main source of textiles, the seeds are used for oil and the remaining bagasse is used as high-protein animal feed. In addition, cotton’s so-called short fibre is used in more than 50 industries. Cotton breeding is generally based on crossing the best yielding and fibre quality genotypes. However, cotton breeding programmes are negatively affected by the narrow genetic diversity of varieties. It is for this reason that the identification of genetic resources and the disclosure of genetic diversity are so important. Here, the genetic diversity of G. hirsutum and G. barbadense genotypes was determined using high-resolution capillary gel electrophoresis. Using 19 EST-SSR markers, a total of 47 genotypes were screened. The PIC values of the markers used ranged from 0.268 to 0.889. The mean PIC value was calculated to be 0.603. In terms of clustering, PCoA and population structure analyses gave similar results, and the genotypes could be divided into three main groups. Genetic admixture with G. hirsutum was found in some genotypes of the G. barbadense species. We can conclude that (i) the EST-SSR markers used in this study are effective in the determination of genetic diversity, (ii) the genetic diversity should be increased through the collection of genetic resources and (iii) the genetic EST-SSR markers in this study should be considered in breeding programmes by using them in QTL studies.
WheatSM V5.0: A Python-Based Wheat Growth and Development Simulation Model with Cloud Services Integration to Enhance Agricultural Applications
Authors: Chen Xianguan , Bai Huiqing , Xue Qingyu , Zhao Jin , Zhao Chuang , Feng Liping
Published: September 2023

This project aims to improve the wheat growth and development simulation model (WheatSM) V4.0, a renowned wheat model, by addressing limitations in its structure and modules. The WheatSM V4.0 excelled numerically but lacked modularity, hindering maintenance, improvement, and secondary development. Therefore, the project undertook a software framework redesign, adopting a modular approach and implementing WheatSM V5.0 entirely in Python. Furthermore, the project conducted a sensitivity analysis of model parameters. Additionally, WheatSM V5.0 was seamlessly integrated into AgroStudio, an agricultural model system integration platform, enabling the provision of online cloud services. The Morris analysis indicated that photoperiod parameters significantly impacted the jointing and mature stages. Furthermore, biomass was highly sensitive to pmax (the maximum photosynthetic intensity at light saturation point), while yield was influenced by tr1 (the transfer rate of photosynthate to grain before heading). The simulated results demonstrated favorable performance in soil water storage, soil nitrate nitrogen content, winter wheat nitrogen accumulation, the development period, biomass, and yield. The NRMSE ranged from 1.2% to 15.1% for calibration and 1.0% to 18.7% for validation. The project successfully transformed WheatSM into a cloud-based service on AgroStudio, migrating from a PC-based application. Generally, this enhanced model exhibits potential for climate change assessment, wheat production optimization, and digital design.
Effect of Yeast Culture on Reproductive Performance, Gut Microbiota, and Milk Composition in Primiparous Sows
Authors: Ma Zhizhuo , Wu Ze , Wang Yu , Meng Qingwei , Chen Peng , Li Jianping , Shan Anshan
Published: September 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of yeast culture (YC) on reproductive performance, gut microbiota, and milk composition in primiparous sows. A total of 60 primiparous sows were randomly assigned to the control group (CON) and YC group (0.5% YC during gestation and 0.8% YC during lactation) consisting of 30 replicates, with one sow in each. The results showed that dietary YC supplementation increased the piglet birth weight and backfat thickness at 28 d of lactation (p < 0.05). Dietary YC supplementation increased the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of gross energy and calcium during lactation, the content of acetic acid and propionic acid at 110 d of gestation, and the content of acetic acid and butyric acid at 28 d of lactation in feces (p < 0.05). Furthermore, dietary YC supplementation decreased the abundance of Firmicutes, Lachnospiraceae_XPB1014_group, and Terrisporobacter (p < 0.05), and increased the abundance of Prevotellaceae_NK3B31_group and Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group (p < 0.05). Compared to the control group, dietary YC supplementation increased the fat and lactose content of the colostrum (p < 0.05). Metabolomics analysis showed that YC increased 26 different metabolites in the colostrum. Among them were mainly pantothenic acid, proline, isoleucine, phenylalanine, acylcarnitine, and other metabolites. In conclusion, these results suggested that dietary YC supplementation improves reproductive performance and gut health and increases the nutrient content in the colostrum of primiparous sows.
Serum Metabolic Characterization of Vitamin E Deficiency in Holstein Cows during the Transition Period Based on Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Song Yuxi , Wang Hongyu , Sun Rui , Chang Jinshui , Tang Jipeng , Bai Yunlong , Xia Cheng
Published: September 2023

Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant, is a necessary and complex micronutrient for cows. During the transition period, vitamin E deficiency (VED) is among the highest prevalent micronutrient deficits in dairy cows. It may eventually result in oxidative stress and immunological malfunction, and it increases the risk of peripartum disorders. At present, detailed data on blood metabolites in VED cows are limited. Consequently, the purpose of this research was to examine the alterations in the serum metabolic profile of VED cows throughout the early postpartum period. Using comprehensive 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), the alterations in serum metabolic activities of VED cows were analyzed. In total, 28 multiparous Holstein cows were assigned according to serum α-tocopherol (α-Toc) concentrations into normal (α-Toc ≥ 4 μg/mL, n = 14) and VED (α-Toc < 3 μg/mL, n = 14) groups at 21 days postpartum, and their blood samples were collected for biochemical and 1H NMR analyses. A t-test on independent samples as well as multivariate statistics were used to assess the findings. In comparison with normal cows, VED cows showed significantly worse body condition scores, milk yield, and dry matter intake (p < 0.05). Significantly higher levels of serum non-esterified fatty acids, aspartate aminotransferase, low-density lipoprotein, and malonaldehyde were found in VED-affected cows, as well as lesser concentrations of serum albumin, high-density lipoprotein, and total antioxidant capacity in comparison with normal cows (p < 0.01), while other vitamins and minerals concentrations showed no distinction between the groups (p > 0.05). Furthermore, 24 upregulated serum metabolites were identified under VED conditions. The metabolomics pathway analysis of these metabolites demonstrated that a global metabolic response to VED in cows was represented by changes in 11 metabolic pathways, comprising energy, carbohydrate, and amino acid metabolism. From these results, we conclude that VED cows were more likely to experience a negative energy balance characterized by alterations of common systemic metabolic processes and develop oxidative stress, inflammation, and ultimately liver injury. This study provides the first evidence of metabolic changes in cows with VED.
Covalent Organic Framework-Based Electrolytes for Lithium Solid-State Batteries—Recent Progress
Authors: Polczyk Tomasz , Nagai Atsushi
Published: September 2023

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have emerged as a promising platform of materials for solid-state battery electrolytes due to their porous and robust structures, and their special spaces such as 1D and 3D, as well as their ability to be modified with functional groups. This review focuses on the use of COF materials in solid-state batteries and explores the various types of bonds between building blocks and the impact on key properties such as conductivity, transfer number, and electrochemical stability. The aim is to provide an overview of the current state of COF-based electrolytes for solid-state batteries and to highlight the prospects for future development in this field. The use of COF materials in solid-state batteries has the potential to overcome limitations such as low theoretical energy density, limited temperature stability, and the risk of fire and explosion associated with traditional liquid electrolyte batteries. By providing a more in-depth understanding of the potential applications of COF-based electrolytes in solid-state batteries, this review seeks to pave the way for further advancements and innovations in this field.
Augmented Reality Surgical Navigation in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery: A Preclinical Study
Authors: Huang Xin , Liu Xiaoguang , Zhu Bin , Hou Xiangyu , Hai Bao , Yu Dongfang , Zheng Wenhao , Li Ranyang , Pan Junjun , Yao Youjie , Dai Zailin , Zeng Haijun
Published: September 2023

Background: In minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS), where the surgeon cannot directly see the patient’s internal anatomical structure, the implementation of augmented reality (AR) technology may solve this problem. Methods: We combined AR, artificial intelligence, and optical tracking to enhance the augmented reality minimally invasive spine surgery (AR-MISS) system. The system has three functions: AR radiograph superimposition, AR real-time puncture needle tracking, and AR intraoperative navigation. The three functions of the system were evaluated through beagle animal experiments. Results: The AR radiographs were successfully superimposed on the real intraoperative videos. The anteroposterior (AP) and lateral errors of superimposed AR radiographs were 0.74 ± 0.21 mm and 1.13 ± 0.40 mm, respectively. The puncture needles could be tracked by the AR-MISS system in real time. The AP and lateral errors of the real-time AR needle tracking were 1.26 ± 0.20 mm and 1.22 ± 0.25 mm, respectively. With the help of AR radiographs and AR puncture needles, the puncture procedure could be guided visually by the system in real-time. The anteroposterior and lateral errors of AR-guided puncture were 2.47 ± 0.86 mm and 2.85 ± 1.17 mm, respectively. Conclusions: The results indicate that the AR-MISS system is accurate and applicable.