bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trends and Disparities in Sexual and Reproductive Health Behaviors and Service Use Among Young Adult Women (Aged 18–25 Years) in the United States, 2002–2015
Authors: Murray Horwitz Mara E. , Pace Lydia E. , Ross-Degnan Dennis
Published: November 2018

Objectives. To describe trends in sexual and reproductive health behaviors and service utilization among young women in the United States.

Methods. We analyzed data from 8835 female respondents aged 18 to 25 years from 4 cycles of the National Survey of Family Growth, a nationally representative cross-sectional survey, from 2002 to 2015. We used bivariate and multivariable logistic regression to compare rates of self-reported sexual activity, sexually transmitted infection–related care, and contraception use over time and by race/ethnicity.

Results. Sexually transmitted infection–related care and human papilloma virus vaccination increased from 2002 to 2013–2015, whereas sexual activity and contraception use remained stable. Compared with White women, racial/ethnic minority women were less likely to report effective contraception use, and Black women were less likely to report human papilloma virus vaccination; these differences did not change over time.

Conclusions. Sexual and reproductive health service utilization increased from 2002 to 2015 among young women, whereas sexual activity remained stable. Overall, rates of recommended care were low, and racial and ethnic disparities persisted.

Public Health Implications. Young women could benefit from clinical interventions and health policies to increase recommended care and reduce disparities.
Inconsistent Collection and Reporting of Gender Minority Data in HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infection Surveillance Across the United States in 2015
Authors: Nguyen Andy , Katz Kenneth A. , Leslie Kieron S. , Amerson Erin H.
Published: November 2018

Objectives. To describe collection and reporting of gender data, including for transgender individuals and other gender minorities, in HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) surveillance in the United States.

Methods. We performed a cross-sectional study of the top 50 US jurisdictions in 2015 for incident infections of HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, or primary and secondary syphilis. For each jurisdiction, we described gender-reporting options on HIV and STI data collection forms (also called confidential morbidity report forms) and data surveillance reports, which present aggregate data at either the county or the state level.

Results. Seventy-one jurisdictions were among the top 50 for at least 1 infection, and we included them. Gender minority categories appeared on 60 of 71 (85%) HIV confidential morbidity report forms and 33 of 70 (47%) STI confidential morbidity report forms, and in 22 of 71 (31%) HIV surveillance reports and 8 of 71 (11%) STI surveillance reports.

Conclusions. Collection and reporting of gender data were suboptimal and inconsistent. Gender minority data were collected more often than reported, suggesting barriers to reporting. Health departments should standardize collection and reporting of gender data in HIV and STI surveillance to better inform prevention and control efforts.
Unequal Declines in Absolute and Relative Disparities in HIV Diagnoses Among Black Women, United States, 2008 to 2016
Authors: Demeke Hanna B. , Johnson Anna S. , Wu Baohua , Moonesinghe Ramal , Dean Hazel D.
Published: November 2018

Objectives. To assess changes in disparities of HIV diagnosis rates among Black women aged 18 years or older living in the United States.

Methods. We calculated estimated annual percent changes (EAPCs) in annual diagnosis rates, rate differences (absolute disparity), and rate ratios (relative disparity) for groups (total, US-born, and non–US-born) of Black women (referent was all White women) with diagnosed HIV infection, using data reported to the National HIV Surveillance System.

Results. Of 39 333 Black women who received an HIV diagnosis during 2008 to 2016, 21.4% were non–US-born. HIV diagnosis rates declined among all Black women, with the smallest decline among non–US-born groups (EAPC = –3.1; P ≤ .001). Absolute disparities declined for both US-born and non–US-born Black women; however, the relative disparity declined for Black women overall and US-born Black women, whereas it increased for non–US-born (including Caribbean- and Africa-born) Black women.

Conclusions. Differences in disparities in HIV diagnoses exist between US-, and non–US-born (specifically Caribbean- and Africa-born) Black women. Accounting for the heterogeneity of the Black women’s population is crucial in measuring and monitoring progress toward eliminating health disparities among Black women.
Preexposure Prophylaxis Monitoring in New York City: A Public Health Approach
Authors: Myers Julie E. , Edelstein Zoe R. , Daskalakis Demetre C. , Gandhi Anisha D. , Misra Kavita , Rivera Alexis V. , Salcuni Paul M. , Scanlin Kathleen , Udeagu Chi-Chi , Braunstein Sarah L.
Published: November 2018

The scale-up of preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) represents a paradigm shift in HIV prevention that poses unique challenges for public health programs. Monitoring of PrEP implementation at the population level is a national priority, with particular significance in New York City (NYC) given the substantial HIV burden and the prominence of PrEP in state and local Ending the Epidemic program plans.

We highlight the importance of local monitoring and evaluation of PrEP implementation outcomes and describe the experience at the NYC Health Department, which includes engaging communities, triangulating a variety of data sources regarding PrEP implementation, and leveraging those data to help guide programming. In NYC, we used data from national surveillance systems and incorporated PrEP-related indicators into existing local data collection systems to help illustrate gaps in PrEP awareness and use.

Ultimately, ensuring that PrEP achieves the desired impact at the population level depends on identifying disparities through appropriate and accurate measurement, and addressing them through evidence-based programs.
Patterns of Racial/Ethnic Disparities and Prevalence in HIV and Syphilis Diagnoses Among Men Who Have Sex With Men, 2016: A Novel Data Visualization
Authors: Sullivan Patrick S. , Purcell David W. , Grey Jeremy A. , Bernstein Kyle T. , Gift Thomas L. , Wimbly Taylor A. , Hall Eric , Rosenberg Eli S.
Published: November 2018

Objectives. To describe disparities in HIV infection and syphilis among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) in US states through ratio-based measures and graphical depictions of disparities.

Methods. We used state-level surveillance data of reported HIV and syphilis cases in 2015 and 2016, and estimates of MSM population sizes to estimate HIV and syphilis prevalence by race/ethnicity and rate ratios (RRs) and to visually display patterns of disparity and prevalence among US states.

Results. State-specific rates of new HIV diagnoses were higher for Black than for White MSM (RR range = 2.35 [Rhode Island] to 10.12 [Wisconsin]) and for Hispanic than for White MSM (RR range = 1.50 [Tennessee] to 5.78 [Pennsylvania]). Rates of syphilis diagnoses were higher for Black than for White MSM in 42 of 44 states (state RR range = 0.89 [Hawaii] to 17.11 [Alaska]). Scatterplots of HIV diagnosis rates by race showed heterogeneity in epidemic scenarios, even in states with similar ratio-based disparity measures.

Conclusions. There is a widely disparate impact of HIV and syphilis among Black and Hispanic MSM compared with White MSM. Between-state variation suggests that states should tailor and focus their prevention responses to best address state data.
Gaps in Preexposure Prophylaxis Uptake for HIV Prevention in the Veterans Health Administration
Authors: Garner Will , Wilson Brigid M. , Beste Lauren , Maier Marissa , Ohl Michael E. , Van Epps Puja
Published: November 2018

Objectives. To report demographics, regional variations, and indications for preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use for HIV prevention in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

Methods. We identified persons initiating tenofovir/emtricitabine for the PrEP indication in the United States between July 2012 and April 2016 in a VHA national database. We stratified PrEP use by provider type and VHA region. We calculated PrEP initiation rate for each region with VHA population data.

Results. Of the 825 persons who initiated PrEP during the observation period, 67% were White and 76% were men who have sex with men. People who inject drugs and transgender persons represented less than 1% each of the cohort. The majority of PrEP initiations were clustered in 3 states, leading with California (28%) followed by Florida (9%) and Texas (8%). The Southeast had one of the lowest PrEP rates at 10 PrEP initiations per 100 000 persons in care. Infectious disease specialists issued more than two thirds of index PrEP prescriptions.

Conclusions. Uptake of PrEP in the VHA is uneven along geographic and risk categories. Understanding the reasons behind these gaps will be key in expanding the use of this important prevention tool.
The Effect of Various Decomposers on Quality of Cattle Dung Compost
Authors: Alfadlli Nur Shoodiq , Noor Safuan , Hertanto Bayu Setya , Cahyadi Muhammad
Published: November 2018

The aim of this study was to compare the utilization of decomposer from bioethanol waste (DLB) with various commercial decomposers on quality of compost made from cattle dung. This study used completely randomized design (one-way ANOVA) with four treatments and five replications. Materials used in this study were cattle dung, water, molasses, DLB and various commercial decomposers (A, B, and C). The treatments in this study were cattle dung + BLB 0.5% (P0), cattle dung + decomposer A 0.5% (P1), cattle dung + decomposer B 0.5% (P2) and cattle dung + decomposer C 0.5% (P3). Then, the mixtures were aerobically ripened until four weeks. During composting, compost was stirred weekly. Furthermore, mature compost was analyzed to evaluate the amount of C Organic, total N, total P, total K, total Ca, total Mg, C/N ratio and pH value. The analysis of variance showed that there was no difference of the quality and pH value of compost made from cattle dung with utilization of DLB and commercial decomposers. It could be concluded that utilization of DLB in composting of cattle dung had identically quality and pH value of compost with utilization of commercial decomposers, therefore, this technology could be an alternative to process waste from home industry of bioethanol.
SRY Gene Marker Differences in Native and Crossbreed Cattle
Authors: Hartatik Tety , Priyadi Dwi Ahmad , Agus Ali , Bintara Sigit , Budisatria I Gede Suparta , Panjono Panjono , Widyobroto Budi Prasetyo , Adinata Yudi
Published: November 2018

This study focused on the promoter region of the SRY gene with 1,281 bp DNA fragments, including 5'UTR, CAAT signal, and TATA box. Genomic samples of 19 cattle were obtained from Wagyu-BX (n = 2), BX (n = 5), Simmental (n = 2), Limousin (n = 2), Ongole (n = 2), Madura (n = 2), Bali (n = 2), Nellore (n = 1), and Hereford (n = 1). Two flanking primers (forward and reverse) were used for polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The PCR products were then sequenced by using a two-way primer. The obtained sequences were aligned with clustalW software to determine the differences in the nucleotide base arrangement which compiled the promoter region of the SRY gene. The cattle crossbreeding was done as an effort to improve the genetic variations and qualities. The SRY gene is a marker gene inherited from the male side (bull), so the SRY gene is expected to be used as a marker to monitor the crossbreeding. The monitoring of the crossbreed cattle is an initial effort to increase the genetic variations and enhance the genetic qualities without threatening the germplasm purity. The results of this study showed that the overall sample is monomorphic, except for Bali and Nellore cattle. Further research is needed by expanding the analysis area of the SRY gene and increasing the number of samples.
Temperature of Eggshell, Weight Loss, and Air Sac on Hatched Local Duck Eggs During Incubation
Authors: Kurniawan Yusuf , Rukmiasih Rukmiasih , Fahrudin Mokhamad , Hardjosworo Peni Soeprapti
Published: November 2018

The study was conducted to analyze the characteristic of eggs (temperature of eggshell, weight loss, and air sac alteration) at various hatching period of local duck hatched (H) and unhatched (UH) at the final observation, and to find out the effective time for estimating the life of embryo during the end of incubation. A total of 146 eggs were incubated and observed between 1 and 25 days of incubation (DOI). The results of weight loss and air sac change showed a significant difference (P<0,05) between H and UH eggs on 7 to 25 DOI, while the temperature of eggshell was only different on 25 DOI. The average characteristic of H group (temperature of eggshell, weight loss, and air sac alteration) on 25 DOI was recorded 38,46oC, 11,84%, and 51,03%, respectively. It can be concluded that 3 characteristics of eggs influence hatchability of local duck. Weight loss and air sac alteration parameters can be applyed to estimate the hatched eggs between 7 and 25 DOI, but the temperature of eggshell can be administrated after 25 DOI.
The Effect of Season on the Feed Quantity and Quality and Growth Performance of Male Bali Cattle Fattened in Smallholder Farms
Authors: Tahuk Paulus Klau , Baliarti Endang , Budhi Subur Priyono Sasmito , Panjono Panjono
Published: November 2018

The research was aimed to determine the effect of season on feed quantity and quality, and growth performance of male Bali cattle fattened in smallholder farms. Observation from January to March for rainy season and June to August for dry season. Feed quantity and quality were observed covering all feedstuff used farmers in fattening. Cattle used for rainy season was 50 heads aged 1.5 – 4.0 years with initial body weight (BW) 188.03±31.85 kg. In dry season, observation was continued for the same cattle as many as 35 heads aged 2.0 – 4.5 years and initial BW was 261.80±38.46 kg. Data were analyzed by quantitative descriptiption for feed quantity and quality, while growth performance were analyzed by independent T-Test. Results of study showed the dominant type of feedstuff used during rainy and dry season were L.leucocephala (56.00 vs 33.14%), Zea mays fresh straw 18.44% (rainy season), natural grass (13.00 vs 22.25%), P.purpuroides (3.68 vs 3.99%) and G.sepium (1.36 vs 29.69%). Crude protein (CP) of L.leucocephala and G.sepium higher during the dry season, while S. grandiflora, natural grass, and P.purpuroides higher in rainy season. The DMD (%) of L. leucocephala and S. grandiflora in rainy and dry seasons were almost the same, but G.sepium had DMD higher in dry season. The OMD L.leucocephala and G. sepium higher during the dry season, while the S.grandiflora had higher during the rainy season. Natural grass and P.purpuroides had DMD and OMD higher during the rainy season. Dry matter intake (kg/head/day) of cattle during dry season was higher (P<0.01), but rainy season ADG and FCR was higher (P<0.01). It can be concluded the feed used by farmers during the rainy season was more varied, with better quality. As a result, the performance of Bali cattle fattened was higher in the rainy season than in the dry season.
Work-Related Skin Diseases Among Workers in the Sewing Section at PT. X Shoe Company in West Java
Authors: Hendra Hendra , Nirwana Eva , Isahak Marzuki
Published: November 2018

Occupational skin diseases are the most common work-related diseases in many countries. Shoe industry workers are potential to be affected by work-related skin diseases (WRSDs). This study aimed to analyze the risk factors associated with WRSDs among workers in the sewing section at a shoe company in West Java. A total of 477 workers were examined and interviewed using the modified Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire-2002/LONG from May 2016 to July 2016. Chi-square test and logistic regression were used to analyze the risk factors related to WRSDs. The results showed that 57.7% of the workers suffered from WRSDs. Most of the workers (71.7%) did not wear gloves while working; however, they washed their hands adequately at work (67.1%). Multivariate analysis indicated that a term of work, allergy records, organic dust exposure and duration of exposure per day, handwashing habits, and use of gloves while working were significant to WRSDs. Having allergy records and not wearing gloves were the two dominant factors associated with WRSDs (odds ratio: 6.743 and 6.224, respectively). Understanding the importance of using chemical protective gloves while working and washing hands with running water are essential for the proper implementation of protective measures to ensure worker's safety and health.
Family Perception of Health Role in Filariasis Countermeasures Using the Health Belief Model Approach in Aceh Besar District
Authors: Elvin Said Devi , Yusuf Mutia , Hayati Wirda , Alamsyah Teuku
Published: November 2018

Aceh Besar District in Aceh is an endemic area of filariasis. This endemic state is strongly influenced by peoples’ perception of filariasis countermeasures. This study aimed to determine the relationship between the family perceptions of the health role in filariasis countermeasures using the Health Belief Model (HBM). An analytical survey was applied with a cross-sectional study approach. The study population was families at three villages in working neighborhoods of Kuta Baro Primary Health Care, namely Lambaro Bileu, Lambaet, and Cot Preh. This represents 1,113 families with a sample of 92 families that were selected using a proportionate stratified random sampling technique. The study instrument was a questionnaire and was analyzed in a univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analysis. The results of the study showed that the families’ perceived susceptibility to filariasis disease and the families’ perception of the benefits from filariasis preventive actions are related to the health role in filariasis countermeasures (p = 0.012 and 0.0001). However, the families’ perception of the seriousness of filariasis disease and the families’ perception of barriers in filariasis preventive action did not influence the health role in filariasis countermeasures (p = 0.259 and 0.230).
Rolling and Biological Control Products Affect Microdochium Patch Severity on a Sand‐Based Annual Bluegrass Putting Green
Authors: Mattox Clint M. , Kowalewski Alec R. , McDonald Brian W. , Lambrinos John G. , Pscheidt Jay W.
Published: November 2018

Core Ideas

There is evidence that rolling an annual bluegrass putting green 5 d a wk−1resulted in a lower severity of Microdochium patch.

Two biological control products were shown to significantly lower Microdochium patch severity.

Neither biological products nor rolling were shown to completely suppress Microdochium patch; therefore, turfgrass quality was not considered acceptable for any treatments.

This study offers evidence of alternative disease control techniques for the management of Microdochium patch on annual bluegrass putting greens.

The turfgrass disease Microdochium patch caused by the pathogenMicrodochium nivale(Fries) Samuels & I.C. Hallett occurs in cool, humid regions. Fungicide applications are the predominant control method, however increasing pesticide restrictions have generated concern regarding their use. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effects of rolling 5 d wk−1in combination with three biological control products applied every 2 wk on Microdochium patch severity on an annual bluegrass (Poa annuaL.) putting green in the absence of traditional fungicides. Biological control products included; BW136N (Trichoderma harzianumRifai strain T‐22 +Trichoderma virens(J.H. Mill. Giddens & A.A. Foster) Arx strain G‐41), Rhapsody (Bacillus subtilisstrain QST 713), and Provide (a microbial solution containing unspecified strains ofBacillus subtilis,Mucor hiemalis, andTrichoderma harzianum) + ReVive (7% humic acid derived from Leonardite). Rolling was effective at inhibiting Microdochium patch as measured by area under disease progress curves (AUDPC) in both years on rolled plots compared to not rolled plots by 47 and 75%, respectively. Applications of BW136N and Rhapsody reduced the severity of Microdochium patch as measured by AUDPC compared to the control (66 and 50% reduction, respectively). The ProVide + ReVive combination did not suppress disease in this study. At the peak of disease, turfgrass quality was greatest when rolling was combined with applications of BW136N or Rhapsody. These findings suggest that rolling as well as BW136N or Rhapsody can inhibit Microdochium patch severity and further research into this management method is warranted.
Active‐Optical Reflectance Sensing Corn Algorithms Evaluated over the United States Midwest Corn Belt
Authors: Bean G. M. , Kitchen N. R. , Camberato J. J. , Ferguson R. B. , Fernandez F. G. , Franzen D. W. , Laboski C. A. M. , Nafziger E. D. , Sawyer J. E. , Scharf P. C. , Schepers J. , Shanahan J. S.
Published: November 2018

Core Ideas

Active‐optical reflectance sensor algorithms perform poorly outside the area for which they were originally developed.

The red edge waveband is more sensitive to N stress than the red waveband.

Some active‐optical reflectance algorithms are dependent on the sensor for which they were developed.

Uncertainty exists with corn (Zea mays L.) N management due to year‐to‐year variation in crop N need, soil N supply, and N loss from leaching, volatilization, and denitrification. Active‐optical reflectance sensing (AORS) has proven effective in some fields for generating N fertilizer recommendations that improve N use efficiency, but locally derived (e.g., within a US state) AORS algorithms have not been tested simultaneously across a broad region. The objective of this research was to evaluate locally developed AORS algorithms across the US Midwest Corn Belt region for making in‐season corn N recommendations. Forty‐nine N response trials were conducted across eight states and three growing seasons. Reflectance measurements were collected and sidedress N rates (45–270 kg N ha−1 on 45 kg ha−1 increments) applied at approximately V9 corn development stage. Nitrogen recommendation rates from AORS algorithms were compared with the end‐of‐season calculated economic optimal N rate (EONR). No algorithm was within 34 kg N ha−1 of EONR > 50% of the time. Average recommendations differed from EONR 81 to 147 kg N ha−1 with no N applied at planting and 74 to 118 kg N ha−1 with 45 kg of N ha−1 at planting, indicating algorithms performed worse with no N applied at planting. With some algorithms, utilizing red edge instead of the red reflectance improved N recommendations. Results demonstrate AORS algorithms developed under a particular set of conditions may not, at least without modification, perform very well in regions outside those within which they were developed.
Fertilizer Phosphorus Solubility Effects on Indian Mustard–Maize and Wheat–Soybean Cropping Systems Productivity
Authors: Rana D.S. , Dass A. , Rajanna G.A. , Choudhary A.K.
Published: November 2018

In Indian mustard and wheat, newly developed phosphorus fertilizers, Suphla of 20:20:0 grade with 60 and 80% water solubility were comparable with di‐ammonium phosphate for crop productivity.

Residual effect of newly developed phosphorus fertilizers sources was significant in succeeding maize and soybean crops.

All P sources were found equally effective and recorded higher yields and nutrient uptake compared to omission of P.

Phosphorus fertilizer sources, Suphla of 20:20:0 grade with 60 and 80% water solubility can be used to meet out the P requirement of mustard–maize and wheat–soybean systems.

Crop responses to P fertilization, in terms of productivity, phosphorus‐use efficiency (PUE), and residual fertility in soil, can depend on the form of P applied. A field experiment was conducted to determine the effect of various P fertilizer forms on productivity and PUE indices in two predominantly practiced Indian mustard [Brassica juncea(L.) Czern & Coss.]–maize [Zea mays(L.)] and wheat [Triticum aestivum(L.) emend. Flori & Paol]–soybean [Glycine max(L.) Merrill] cropping rotations. The experiment was conducted during 2012–2014 at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India. A ‘Suphala’ P fertilizer, with 30, 60, and 80% water solubility was compared with single superphosphate (SSP) and di‐ammonium phosphate (DAP), all including the recommended dose of N and K through urea and muriate of potash. The seed yield (6.0—21.3%), crop equivalent yield (4.7–10.3%) and system net returns (1.8–11.8%) of Indian mustard were higher with direct application of SSP over other soluble and partially soluble P fertilizers. Wheat yield (4.6–9.6%) and system net returns (2.7–9.6%), were higher using DAP. However, the residual effect of P fertilizers exerted a significant influence on the performance of succeeding maize and soybean crops. Using DAP as P fertilizer form recorded higher grain yield and system net returns of maize and soybean than other soluble P forms. Irrespective of the fertilizer form, treatments involving P application improved P use indices, and apparent N and K recovery in Indian mustard and wheat crops. Hence, the studied P fertilizer forms will result in higher productivity, sustainable use of resources and reduction in production costs for these cropping systems.
Stream Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Sediment Concentrations Show Contrasting Long‐term Trends Associated with Agricultural Change
Authors: Renwick William H. , Vanni Michael J. , Fisher Thomas J. , Morris Emily L.
Published: November 2018

Stream water quality can be greatly influenced by changes in agricultural practices, but studies of long‐term dynamics are scarce. Here we describe trends over 21 yr (1994–2014) in nutrients and suspended sediments in three streams in a Midwestern US agricultural watershed. During this time, the watershed experienced substantial changes in agricultural practices, most importantly a pronounced shift from conventional to conservation tillage. In the 1990s and early 2000s, NH4, soluble reactive P, and suspended sediment concentrations (standardized for discharge and season) each declined significantly (>4–12% per year) in at least two of the three streams (P < 0.01), whereas NO3 changed relatively little. However, since the early 2000s, declines in NH4 and sediment concentrations have slowed, soluble reactive P concentrations have not declined and may actually have increased, and NO3 concentrations have declined sharply. The more recent lack of decline in soluble reactive P coincides with a plateau in the prevalence of conservation tillage and may be because of increased soil P stratification due to long‐term reduced tillage. The more recent decline in NO3 may be due to improved efficiency of N fertilizer use, increased soil denitrification, and/or declines in atmospheric N deposition. Our study shows that stream concentrations of N, P, and sediment can respond in contrasting ways to changes in agriculture, and that temporal trends can moderate, accelerate, or reverse over decadal timescales. Management strategies must consider contrasting temporal responses of water quality indicators and may need to be adaptively adjusted at scales of years to decades.

Core Ideas

Stream water quality in a Midwestern watershed responds to agricultural management.

Conservation tillage and nutrient management appear to be major drivers of change.

Nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment show contrasting dynamics over decadal timescales.

Management plans must anticipate temporally variable trends over multiple decades.
Advancing the Sustainability of US Agriculture through Long‐Term Research
Authors: Kleinman P. J. A. , Spiegal S. , Rigby J. R. , Goslee S. C. , Baker J. M. , Bestelmeyer B. T. , Boughton R. K. , Bryant R. B. , Cavigelli M. A. , Derner J. D. , Duncan E. W. , Goodrich D. C. , Huggins D. R. , King K. W. , Liebig M. A. , Locke M. A. , Mirsky S. B. , Moglen G. E. , Moorman T. B. , Pierson F. B. , Robertson G. P. , Sadler E. J. , Shortle J. S. , Steiner J. L. , Strickland T. C. , Swain H. M. , Tsegaye T. , Williams M. R. , Walthall C. L.
Published: November 2018

Agriculture in the United States must respond to escalating demands for productivity and efficiency, as well as pressures to improve its stewardship of natural resources. Growing global population and changing diets, combined with a greater societal awareness of agriculture's role in delivering ecosystem services beyond food, feed, fiber, and energy production, require a comprehensive perspective on where and how US agriculture can be sustainably intensified, that is, made more productive without exacerbating local and off‐site environmental concerns. The USDA's Long‐Term Agroecosystem Research (LTAR) network is composed of 18 locations distributed across the contiguous United States working together to integrate national and local agricultural priorities and advance the sustainable intensification of US agriculture. We explore here the concept of sustainable intensification as a framework for defining strategies to enhance production, environmental, and rural prosperity outcomes from agricultural systems. We also elucidate the diversity of factors that have shaped the past and present conditions of cropland, rangeland, and pastureland agroecosystems represented by the LTAR network and identify priorities for research in the areas of production, resource conservation and environmental quality, and rural prosperity. Ultimately, integrated long‐term research on sustainable intensification at the national scale is critical to developing practices and programs that can anticipate and address challenges before they become crises.

Core Ideas

The LTAR network was established to enhance the sustainability of US agriculture.

The LTAR “common experiment” compares business as usual with aspirational management.

LTAR sites contribute research observations to the network's database.

LTAR network research will support sustainable intensification strategies.
Diatom Assemblage Changes in Agricultural Alluvial Plain Streams and Application for Nutrient Management
Authors: Hicks Matthew B. , Taylor Jason M.
Published: November 2018

In large, alluvial floodplains dominated by agriculture, small streams have the potential to experience nutrient enrichment affecting algal assemblage structure and metabolism. Nutrient enrichment is largely driven by application of nutrients and altered hydrologic regimes. To inform stressor–response‐based nutrient reduction goals for agricultural alluvial plain streams, diatom assemblages were sampled from 25 streams located within the Mississippi Alluvial Plain (MAP) with various land management practices and associated P and N inputs. From August through September 2015, epidendric diatom assemblage samples were collected from instream woody debris. Field nutrient gradients were skewed toward higher concentrations, and ranges of previously reported diatom assemblage response thresholds indicative of oligotrophic conditions were not well represented. Ordination analysis identified a gradient in species composition associated with increasing P and decreasing dissolved oxygen. A significant shift in diatom assemblage structure occurred when total P concentrations in the MAP streams exceeded 0.12 mg L−1. Phosphorus‐enriched systems were represented by a distinct set of indicator species, lower abundances of ubiquitous species, greater abundances of highly tolerant species, and greater abundances of high‐P indicator species. No relationships were observed among diatom assemblage measures or traits with increasing N. Current results do not address potential criteria for identifying high‐quality, oligotrophic streams. However, measures of diatom assemblage structure have potential for helping set benchmarks to reduce nutrient impacts and monitor effects of agricultural best management practices on MAP streams.

Core Ideas

Identifying stream nutrient indicators is difficult in agricultural landscapes.

Diatoms found in Mississippi Alluvial Plain streams are sensitive to changes in P concentrations.

Diatom assemblages shifted when stream total P concentrations exceeded ∼0.12 mg L−1.

Diatom measures can help set nutrient reduction goals for agricultural streams.

Stream diatom indicators may improve monitoring success of nutrient best management practices.
Effect of Fiber Maturity on Bundle and Single‐Fiber Strength of Upland Cotton
Authors: Kim Hee Jin , Delhom Christopher D. , Rodgers James E. , Jones Don C.
Published: November 2018

Maturity and strength are two of the physical properties that determine the quality and value of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Their relationship has been poorly understood due to technical difficulties of directly measuring maturity and strength from individual fibers. The narrow maturity and strength ranges of most upland cotton fibers have also impeded cotton scientists from performing statistical approaches. Therefore, we used genetic approaches to construct 168 new upland cotton materials covering broad ranges of maturity and strength and measured maturity ratio (MR) and strength‐related properties from bundle and single fibers with reference methods. Comparisons of their properties showed that the MR values were significantly and positively correlated with single‐fiber breaking force (cN) as well as bundle fiber strength (g tex−1) and elongation values. There were also correlations between the MR values and single‐fiber strength (cN tex−1), although its r value was substantially affected by the linear density (tex) that normalized the breaking force (cN). The results showed that secondary cell wall development (maturation) is a major factor in determining bundle and single‐fiber strength. These results will help cotton scientists understand the correlations between fiber maturity and strength and develop strategic plans to improve quality and yield of cotton fibers.
The TERENO Pre‐Alpine Observatory: Integrating Meteorological, Hydrological, and Biogeochemical Measurements and Modeling
Authors: Kiese R. , Fersch B. , Baessler C. , Brosy C. , Butterbach-Bahl K. , Chwala C. , Dannenmann M. , Fu J. , Gasche R. , Grote R. , Jahn C. , Klatt J. , Kunstmann H. , Mauder M. , Rödiger T. , Smiatek G. , Soltani M. , Steinbrecher R. , Völksch I. , Werhahn J. , Wolf B. , Zeeman M. , Schmid H.P.
Published: November 2018

Core Ideas

Pre‐alpine areas face more intense warming and extreme hydrological events than the global average.

Climate and land management change have far‐reaching impacts on ecosystem functions and services.

We have improved knowledge of water, energy, and matter exchange by long‐term observations and modeling.

Global change has triggered several transformations, such as alterations in climate, land productivity, water resources, and atmospheric chemistry, with far reaching impacts on ecosystem functions and services. Finding solutions to climate and land cover change‐driven impacts on our terrestrial environment is one of the most important scientific challenges of the 21st century, with far‐reaching interlinkages to the socio‐economy. The setup of the German Terrestrial Environmental Observatories (TERENO) Pre‐Alpine Observatory was motivated by the fact that mountain areas, such as the pre‐alpine region in southern Germany, have been exposed to more intense warming compared with the global average trend and to higher frequencies of extreme hydrological events, such as droughts and intense rainfall. Scientific research questions in the TERENO Pre‐Alpine Observatory focus on improved process understanding and closing of combined energy, water, C, and N cycles at site to regional scales. The main long‐term objectives of the TERENO Pre‐Alpine Observatory include the characterization and quantification of climate change and land cover–management effects on terrestrial hydrology and biogeochemical processes at site and regional scales by joint measuring and modeling approaches. Here we present a detailed climatic and biogeophysical characterization of the TERENO Pre‐Alpine Observatory and a summary of novel scientific findings from observations and projects. Finally, we reflect on future directions of climate impact research in this particularly vulnerable region of Germany.
Multi-walled carbon nanotube doped PVA membrane for desalination
Authors: Yilman B. , Nigiz F. U. , Aytaç A. , Hilmioglu N. D.
Published: November 2018

In this study, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) loaded polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) membranes were synthesized and applied for desalination by means of pervaporation technique. Membranes were characterized using scanning electron microscope (SEM). Sorption studies were carried out to determine the degree of swelling of the MWCNT/PVA membranes into different types of salt solution. Pervaporation experiments were carried using the pristine and MWCNT loaded membranes. The effect of MWCNT concentration and salt concentration on the swelling, flux and salt rejection were investigated at the constant temperature of 40 °C. As a result, greater than 92% of rejections were obtained using all membrane. The highest flux was obtained using 0.3 wt% MWCNT loaded membrane with the highest rejection of 98.8%. SEM analysis confirmed that the excess amount of particles caused agglomeration and negatively affected the desalination performance.
Nanocarriers: A Successful Tool to Increase Solubility, Stability and Optimise Bioefficacy of Natural Constituents
Authors: Bilia Anna Rita , Piazzini Vieri , Risaliti Laura , Vanti Giulia , Casamonti Marta , Wang Meng , Bergonzi Maria Camilla
Published: November 2018

Natural products are fascinating molecules in drug discovery for their exciting structure variability and also for their interaction with various targets. Drugs multi-targeting effect represents a more realistic approach to develop successful medications for many diseases. However, besides a large number of successful in vitro and in vivo studies, most of the clinical trials fail. This is generally related to the scarce water solubility, low lipophilicity and inappropriate molecular size of natural compounds, which undergo structural instability in biological milieu, rapid clearance and high metabolic rate. Additionally, some molecules are destroyed in gastric juice or suffer to a massive pre-systemic metabolism in the liver, when administered orally, limiting their clinical use. A reduced bioavailability can also be linked to drug distribution/accumulation in non-targeted tissues and organs that increase the side effects lowering the therapeutic efficacy and patient compliance. Nanomedicine represents a favourable tool to increase bioavailability and activities of natural products. Generally, nanovectors provide a large surface area and can overcome anatomic barriers. Each nanovector has its own advantages, disadvantages, and characteristics. In this review, different nanocarriers made of compounds which are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for the delivery of natural products, marketed as food supplements and medicines are reported.
Can Antidiabetic Drugs Improve Male Reproductive (Dys)Function Associated with Diabetes?
Authors: Tavares R.S. , Escada-Rebelo S. , Sousa M.I. , Silva A. , Ramalho-Santos J. , Amaral S.
Published: November 2018

The alarming increase in the number of diabetic patients worldwide raises concerns regarding the impact of the disease on global health, not to mention on social and economic aspects. Furthermore, the association of this complex metabolic disorder with male reproductive impairment is worrying, mainly due to the increasing chances that young individuals, at the apex of their reproductive window, could be affected by the disease, further contributing to the disturbing decline in male fertility worldwide. The cornerstone of diabetes management is glycemic control, proven to be effective in avoiding, minimizing or preventing the appearance or development of disease-related complications. Nonetheless, the possible impact of these therapeutic interventions on male reproductive function is essentially unexplored. To address this issue, we have made a critical assessment of the literature on the effects of several antidiabetic drugs on male reproductive function. While the crucial role of insulin is clear, as shown by the recovery of reproductive impairments in insulin-deficient individuals after treatment, the same clearly does not apply to other antidiabetic strategies. In fact, there is an abundance of controversial reports, possibly related to the various study designs, experimental models and compounds used, which include biguanides, sulfonylureas, meglitinides, thiazolidinediones/glitazones, bile acid sequestrants, amylin mimetics, as well as sodiumglucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1), α-glucosidase inhibitors and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) inhibitors. These aspects constitute the focus of the current review.
Intranasal Insulin Prevents Anesthesia-induced Cognitive Impairments in Aged Mice
Authors: Li Xing , Run Xiaoqin , Wei Zhen , Zeng Kuan , Liang Zhihou , Huang Fang , Ke Dan , Wang Qun , Wang Jian-Zhi , Liu Rong , Zhang Bin , Wang Xiaochuan
Published: November 2018

Background:

Preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that elderly individuals are at increased
risk of cognitive decline after general anesthesia. General anesthesia is also believed to be a risk
factor for Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD) and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Intranasal administration
of insulin, which delivers the drug directly into the brain, improves memory and cognition
in both animal studies and small clinical trials. However, how insulin treatment improves cognitive
function is poorly understood.

Methods:

Aged mice were pretreated with intranasal insulin or saline before anesthesia. Propofol was
added intraperitoneally to the mice from 7th day of insulin/saline treatment, and general anesthesia was
induced and maintained for 2 hours/day for 5 consecutive days. Mice were evaluated at 26th day when
the mice were continued on insulin or saline administration for another 15 days.

Results:

We found that intranasal insulin treatment prevented anesthesia-induced cognitive impairments,
as measured by novel object recognition test and contextual-dependent fear conditioning test. Insulin
treatment also increased the expression level of Post-synaptic Density Protein 95 (PSD95), as well as
upregulated Microtubule-associated Protein-2 (MAP-2) in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. Furthermore,
we found that insulin treatment restored insulin signaling disturbed by anesthesia via activating
PI3K/PDK1/AKT pathway, and attenuated anesthesia-induced hyperphosphorylation of tau at multiple
AD-associated sites. We found the attenuation of tau hyperphosphorylation occurred by increasing
the level of GSK3β phosphorylated at Ser9, which leads to inactivation of GSK-3β.

Conclusion:

Intranasal insulin administration might be a promising therapy to prevent anesthesiainduced
cognitive deficit in elderly individuals.
The RNA Binding Protein HuR: a Promising Drug Target for Anticancer Therapy
Authors: Wu Mingxia , Tong Christy W.S. , Yan Wei , To Kenneth K.W. , Cho William C.S.
Published: November 2018

The stability of mRNA is one of the key factors governing the regulation of eukaryotic gene expression and function. Human antigen R (HuR) is an RNA-binding protein that regulates the stability, translation, and nucleus-to-cytoplasm shuttling of its target mRNAs. While HuR is normally localized within the nucleus, it has been shown that HuR binds mRNAs in the nucleus and then escorts the mRNAs to the cytoplasm where HuR protects them from degradation. It contains several RNA recognition motifs, which specifically bind to adenylate and uridylate-rich regions within the 3’-untranslated region of the target mRNA to mediate its effect. Many of the HuR target mRNAs encode proteins important for cell growth, tumorigenesis, angiogenesis, tumor inflammation, invasion and metastasis. HuR overexpression is known to correlate well with high-grade malignancy and poor prognosis in many tumor types. Thus, HuR has emerged as an attractive drug target for cancer therapy. Novel small molecule HuR inhibitors have been identified by high throughput screening and new formulations for targeted delivery of HuR siRNA to tumor cells have been developed with promising anticancer activity. This review summarizes the significant role of HuR in cancer development, progression, and poor treatment response. We will discuss the potential and challenges of targeting HuR therapeutically.
Characterization of YY1 OPB Peptide for its Anticancer Activity
Authors: Qi Yige , Yan Ting , Chen Lu , Zhang Qiang , Wang Weishu , Han Xu , Li Dangdang , Shi Jinming , Sui Guangchao
Published: November 2018

Background:

The oncoprotein binding (OPB) domain of Yin Yang 1 (YY1) consists of 26 amino acids between G201 and S226, and is involved in YY1 interaction with multiple oncogene products, including MDM2, AKT, EZH2 and E1A. Through the OPB domain, YY1 promotes the oncogenic or proliferative regulation of these oncoproteins in cancer cells. We previously demonstrated that a peptide with the OPB sequence blocked YY1-AKT interaction and inhibited breast cancer cell proliferation.

Objective:

In the current study, we characterized the OPB domain and determined a minimal region for peptide design to suppress cancer cell

Methods:

Using alanine-scan method, we identified that the amino acids at OPB C-terminal are essential to YY1 binding to AKT. Further studies suggested that serine and threonine residues, but not lysines, in OPB play a key role in YY1-AKT interaction. We generated GFP fusion expression vectors to express OPB peptides with serially deleted N-terminal and found that OPB1 (i.e. G201-S226) is cytoplasmic, but OPB2 (i.e. E206-S226), OPB3 (i.e. E206-S226) and control peptide were both nuclear and cytoplasmic.

Results:

Both OPB1 and 2 inhibited breast cancer cell proliferation and migration, but OPB3 exhibited similar effects to control. OPB1 and 2 caused cell cycle arrest at G1 phase, increased p53 and p21 expression, and reduced AKT(S473) phosphorylation in MCF-7 cells, but not in MDA-MB-231 cells.

Conclusion:

: Overall, the serines and threonines of OPB are essential to YY1 binding to oncoproteins, and OPB peptide can be minimized to E206-S226 that maintain inhibitory activity to YY1- promoted cell proliferation.
A Perspective to the Correlation Between Brain Insulin Resistance and Alzheimer: Medicinal Chemistry Approach
Authors: Rabiee Navid , Bagherzadeh Mojtaba , Rabiee Mohammad
Published: November 2018

Substantial terms have been recognized on the associated risk elements, comorbidities as well as, putative pathophysiological processes of Alzheimer disease and related dementias (ADRDs) as well as, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), a few from greatest important disease from the moments. Very much is considered regarding the biology and chemistry of each predicament, nevertheless T2DM and ADRDs are an actually similar pattern developing from the similar origins of maturing or synergistic conditions connected by aggressive patho-corporeal terms and continues to be ambiguous. In this depth-critique article, we aimed to investigate all possibilities and represented a novel and applicable approach from the Medicinal Chemistry concepts.