bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeting Unmet Clinical Needs in the Treatment of Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: Lohoff Falk W.
Published: June 2022

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a chronic psychiatric disorder marked by impaired control over drinking behavior that poses a significant challenge to the individual, their community, the healthcare system and economy. While the negative consequences of chronic excessive alcohol consumption are well-documented, effective treatment for AUD and alcohol-associated diseases remains challenging. Cognitive and behavioral treatment, with or without pharmaceutical interventions, remain the most commonly used methods; however, their efficacy is limited. The development of new treatment protocols for AUD is challenged by difficulty in accurately measuring patterns of alcohol consumption in AUD patients, a lack of a clear understanding of the neuropsychological basis of the disorder, the high likelihood of AUD patients relapsing after receiving treatment, and the numerous end-organ comorbidities associated with excessive alcohol use. Identification and prediction of patients who may respond well to a certain treatment mechanism as well as clinical measurement of a patient's alcohol exposure are bottlenecks in AUD research which should be further addressed. In addition, greater focus must be placed on the development of novel strategies of drug design aimed at targeting the integrated neural pathways implicated in AUD pathogenesis, so that next-generation AUD treatment protocols can address the broad and systemic effects of AUD and its comorbid conditions.
Impact of Meditation–Based Lifestyle Modification on HRV in Outpatients With Mild to Moderate Depression: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Bringmann Holger C. , Bogdanski Martin , Seifert Georg , Voss Andreas
Published: June 2022

Background

The scientific evaluation of mind-body-interventions (MBI), including yoga and meditation, has increased significantly in recent decades. However, evidence of MBI's efficacy on biological parameters is still insufficient.

Objectives

In this study, we used HRV analysis to evaluate a novel MBI as a treatment of outpatients with mild to moderate depressive disorder. The Meditation-Based Lifestyle Modification (MBLM) program incorporates all major elements of classical yoga, including ethical principles of yoga philosophy, breathing exercises, postural yoga, and meditation.

Methods

In this exploratory randomized controlled trial, we compared the changes in HRV indices of a MBLM group (N = 22) and a minimal treatment group (MINIMAL, drugs only, N = 17) with those of a multimodal treatment-as-usual group (TAU, according to best clinical practice, N = 22). Electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings were derived from a Holter monitoring device, and HRV indices have been extracted from nearly stationary 20-min periods.

Results

Short-term HRV analysis revealed statistically significant differences in the pre-to-post changes between MBLM and TAU. In particular, the vagal tone mediating RMSSD and the Rényi entropy of symbolic dynamics indicated HRV gains in MBLM participants compared with TAU. Almost no alterations were observed in the MINIMAL group.

Conclusions

Our results suggest a benefit in selected HRV parameters for outpatients with mild to moderate depression participating in the MBLM program. For further investigations, we propose analysis of complete 24-h HRV recordings and additional continuous pulse wave or blood pressure analysis to assess long-term modulations and cardiovascular effects.
Prepulse Inhibition and P50 Suppression in Relation to Creativity and Attention: Dispersed Attention Beneficial to Quantitative but Not Qualitative Measures of Divergent Thinking
Authors: Stolte Marije , Oranje Bob , Van Luit Johannes E. H. , Kroesbergen Evelyn H.
Published: June 2022

The current study investigated whether lower sensory and sensorimotor gating were related to higher levels of creativity and/or attentional difficulties in a natural population of primary school children (9- to 13-year-old). Gating abilities were measured with P50 suppression and prepulse inhibition of the startle reflex (PPI). The final sample included 65 participants in the P50 analyses and 37 participants in the PPI analyses. Our results showed that children with a high P50 amplitude to testing stimuli scored significantly higher on the divergent outcome measures of fluency and flexibility but not originality compared to children with a lower amplitude. No significant differences were found on any of the creativity measures when the sample was split on average PPI parameters. No significant differences in attention, as measured with a parent questionnaire, were found between children with low or high levels of sensory or sensorimotor gating. The data suggest that quantitative, but not qualitative measures of divergent thinking benefit from lower psychophysiological gating and that attentional difficulties stem from specific instead of general gating deficits. Future studies should take the effect of controlled attention into consideration.
Depression and Its Association With Self-Esteem and Lifestyle Factors Among School-Going Adolescents in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamad Faez , Wan Ismail Wan Salwina , Nik Jaafar Nik Ruzyanei , Mohd Mokhtaruddin Ummi Kalthum , Ong Hooi Yee , Abu Bakar Nur Hidayah , Mohd Salleh Sahimi Hajar
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Depression is a prevalent mental health condition worldwide and in Malaysia. Depression among adolescents has been steadily increasing. Self-esteem has been known to be associated with depression. It has been postulated that a poor lifestyle among adolescents is associated with depression. This paper aims to study the correlation of self-esteem, lifestyle (eating behavior, physical activity, and internet usage) with depression among Malaysian youth.

Methodology

This is a cross-sectional study among secondary school children from 5 random schools in an urban city of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Those with intellectual disability and/or difficulty to comprehend Malay language, and without parental consent and assent, were excluded. Students from randomly selected classes aged 13-year-old to 17-year-old were invited to fill in these questionnaires: Socio-demographic Questionnaire, Rosenberg Self-esteem Questionnaire, Physical Activity Questionnaire (PAQ-A), Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaires (EDE-Q), Internet Addiction Test Scale (IAT), and Children's Depression Inventory (CDI).

Result

461 students participated in the study. 21.5% of the participating students were found to have depression (n = 99). Younger age and Chinese race showed significant association with adolescent depression with a p-value of 0.032 and 0.017 respectively. Other significant correlations with depression were self-esteem (p = 0.013), disordered eating (p = 0.000), lower physical activity (p = 0.014) and problematic internet usage (p = 0.000).

Discussion

The prevalence of depression among adolescents in this study (21.5%) is in line with previous prevalence studies in Malaysia. Self-esteem is postulated to be a moderating factor for depression hence explaining the significant association. A sedentary lifestyle may increase the risk of developing depression, The causal relationship between problematic internet usage and depression is complex and difficult to establish. This is similar to the relationship between problematic eating behavior and depression as well.

Conclusion

There is still a need to explore the causal relationship between lifestyle factors and depression among youth. Despite that, the results from this paper have accentuated the gravity of the importance of a healthy lifestyle among adolescents. An appropriate preventive measure is governmental strategies and policies aiming at improving a healthier lifestyle in this age group.
Age, Motivation, and Emotion Regulation Skills Predict Treatment Outcome in an Internet-Based Self-Help Intervention for COVID-19 Related Psychological Distress
Authors: Brog Noemi Anja , Hegy Julia Katharina , Berger Thomas , Znoj Hansjörg
Published: June 2022

Introduction

First evidence suggests that internet-based self-help interventions effectively reduce COVID-19 related psychological distress. However, it is yet unclear which participant characteristics are associated with better treatment outcomes. Therefore, we conducted secondary analyses on data from a randomized controlled trial investigating the efficacy of a 3-week internet-based self-help intervention for COVID-19 related psychological distress. In this exploratory analysis, we examined several predictors ranging from sociodemographic variables to psychological distress, resource-related, and treatment-related variables. This includes, for example, age, motivation, and emotion regulation skills. Treatment outcomes were defined as post-treatment depressive symptoms and post-treatment resilience.

Methods

In a total of 107 participants with at least mild depressive symptoms, possible predictor variables and treatment outcomes were assessed using self-report measures. For example, emotion regulation skills were assessed by the Self-report measure for the assessment of emotion regulation skills. In a first step, we performed a separate linear regression analysis for each potential predictor. In a second step, predictors meeting a significant threshold of p < 0.05 were entered in linear multiple regression models. Baseline scores of the respective outcome measure were controlled for.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 40.36 years (SD = 14.59, range = 18–81 years) with the majority being female (n = 87, 81.3%). Younger age predicted lower post-treatment depressive symptoms. Additionally, higher motivation to use the intervention and better pre-treatment emotion regulation skills predicted higher post-treatment resilience.

Conclusion

The current study provides preliminary evidence regarding the relationship between participant characteristics and treatment outcome in internet-based self-help interventions for COVID-19 related distress. Our results suggest that under the circumstances surrounding COVID-19 such interventions might be particularly beneficial for young adults regarding depressive symptoms. Moreover, focusing on participants' existing strengths might be a promising approach to promote resilience through internet-based self-help interventions. However, since this was an exploratory analysis in an uncontrolled setting, further studies are needed to draw firm conclusions about the relationship of participant characteristics and treatment outcome in internet-based self-help interventions for COVID-19 related psychological distress.
Multiple Factors Causing Myopia and the Possible Treatments: A Mini Review
Authors: Shinojima Ari , Negishi Kazuno , Tsubota Kazuo , Kurihara Toshihide
Published: June 2022

The myopia epidemic has become a global public health problem. Although myopia is progressing worldwide, the recent coronavirus infections 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak has spurred myopia progression. The current evidence-based treatments for humans are atropine eye drops, optical treatment with defocus, use of orthokeratology, extending proximity working distance, pausing from near work every half hour and increased time outside the home. Studies on myopia using animal models have been conducted for more than 40 years. In recent years, new mechanisms of myopia suppression have been revealed from animal experiments such as inflammation control, intraocular pressure control, light control, and the activity of early growth response protein 1 control. This mini-review provides a summary of the scientific evidence currently available on the control of myopia, and the possible treatments mitigating myopia.
Digitally Optimizing the Information Flows Necessary to Manage Professional Athletes: A Case Study in Rugby Union
Authors: Ranaweera Jayamini , Weaving Dan , Zanin Marco , Pickard Matthew C. , Roe Gregory
Published: June 2022

Practical case studies elaborating end-to-end attempts to improve the quality of information flows associated with athlete management processes are scarce in the current sport literature. Therefore, guided by a Business Process Management (BPM) approach, the current study presents the outcomes from a case study to optimize the quality of strength and conditioning (S&C) information flow in the performance department of a professional rugby union club. Initially, the S&C information flow was redesigned using integral technology, activity elimination and activity automation redesign heuristics. Utilizing the Lean Startup framework, the redesigned information flow was digitally transformed by designing data collection, management and visualization systems. Statistical tests used to assess the usability of the data collection systems against industry benchmarks using the System Usability Scale (SUS) administered to 55 players highlighted that its usability (mean SUS score of 87.6 ± 10.76) was well above average industry benchmarks of similar systems (Grade A from SUS scale). In the data visualization system, 14 minor usability problems were identified from 9 cognitive walkthroughs conducted with the High-Performance Unit (HPU) staff. Pre-post optimization information quality was subjectively assessed by administering a standardized questionnaire to the HPU members. The results indicated positive improvements in all of the information quality dimensions (with major improvements to the accessibility) relating to the S&C information flow. Additionally, the methods utilized in the study would be especially beneficial for sporting environments requiring cost effective and easily adoptable information flow digitization initiatives which need to be implemented by its internal staff members.
Innovative Application of Three-Dimensional-Printed Breast Model-Aided Reduction Mammaplasty
Authors: Xiong Shaoheng , E Bei , Zhang Zhaoxiang , Tang Jiezhang , Rong Xiangke , Gong Haibo , Yi Chenggang
Published: June 2022

Symptomatic macromastia places a severe physical and psychological burden on patients. Reduction mammaplasty is the primary treatment; however, conventional surgery may lead to postoperative nipple-areolar complex necrosis due to damage to the dominant supplying arteries. In this study, we designed and fabricated an innovative, three-dimensional-printed breast vascular model to provide surgical guidance for reduction mammaplasty. Preoperative computed tomography angiography scanning data of patients were collected. The data were then processed and reconstructed using the E3D digital medical modeling software (version 17.06); the reconstructions were then printed into a personalized model using stereolithography. The three-dimensional-printed breast vascular model was thus developed for individualized preoperative surgical design. This individualized model could be used to intuitively visualize the dominant supplying arteries’ spatial location in the breasts, thereby allowing effective surgical planning for reduction mammaplasty. The three-dimensional-printed breast vascular model can therefore provide an individualized preoperative design and patient education, avoid necrosis of the nipple-areolar complex, shorten operation duration, and ensure safe and effective surgery in patients.
Development and Validation of a Clinical Prediction Model for Complicated Appendicitis in the Elderly
Authors: Feng Hui , Yu Qingsheng , Wang Jingxing , Yuan Yiyang , Yu Shushan , Wei Feisheng , Zheng Zhou , Peng Hui , Zhang Wanzong
Published: June 2022

Background

For elderly patients with mild clinical symptoms of uncomplicated appendicitis(UA), non-surgical treatment has been shown to be feasible, whereas emergency surgical treatment is recommended in elderly patients with complicated appendicitis(CA), but it is still challenging to accurately distinguish CA and UA before treatment. This study aimed to develop a predictive model to assist clinicians to quickly determine the type of acute appendicitis.

Methods

We retrospectively studied the clinical data of elderly patients with acute appendicitis who visited the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from January 2012 to January 2022. The patients were divided into UA group and CA group, and the general conditions, medical history, physical examination, laboratory examination and imaging examination were compared between the two groups, and SPSS 26.0 and R 4.0.2 software were used to establish CA clinic. Predict the model, and validate it internally.

Results

The clinical data of 441 elderly patients with acute appendicitis were collected, 119 patients were excluded due to incomplete clinical data or other diseases. Finally, 332 patients were included in the study and divided into UA group (n = 229) and CA group (n = 103). By analyzing the clinical data of the two groups of patients, the duration of abdominal pain [OR = 1.094, 95% CI (1.056–1.134)], peritonitis [OR = 8.486, 95% CI (2.017–35.703))] and total bilirubin [OR = 1.987, 95% CI (1.627–2.426)] were independent predictors of CA (all p < 0.01). The model's Area Under Curve(AUC) = 0.985 (95% CI, 0.975–0.994). After internal verification by Bootstrap method, the model still has high discriminative ability (AUC = 0.983), and its predicted CA curve is still in good agreement with the actual clinical CA curve.

Conclusion

We found that a clinical prediction model based on abdominal pain duration, peritonitis, and total bilirubin can help clinicians quickly and effectively identify UA or CA before treatment of acute appendicitis in the elderly, so as to make more scientific clinical decisions.
Evaluation of the Abdominal Aorta and External Iliac Arteries Using Three-Dimensional Time-of-Flight, Three Dimensional Electrocardiograph-Gated Fast Spin-Echo, and Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Angiography in Clinically Healthy Cats
Authors: Lee Minju , Ko Minjung , Ahn Jisoo , Ahn Jiyoung , Yu Jin , Chang Jinhwa , Oh Sukhoon , Chang Dongwoo
Published: June 2022

Arterial thromboembolism is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates in cats. Definitive diagnosis requires advanced imaging modalities, such as computed tomography angiography (CTA) and contrast-enhanced (CE) magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). However, CTA involves exposure to a large amount of ionized radiation, and CE-MRA can cause systemic nephrogenic fibrosis. Non-contrast-enhanced (NE) MRA can help accurately diagnose vascular lesions without such limitations. In this study, we evaluated the ability of NE-MRA using three-dimensional electrocardiograph-gated fast spin-echo (3D ECG-FSE) and 3D time-of-flight (3D TOF) imaging to visualize the aorta and external iliac arteries in clinically healthy cats and compared the results with those obtained using CE-MRA. All 11 cats underwent 3D ECG-FSE, 3D TOF, and CE-MRA sequences. Relative signal intensity (rSI) for quantitative image analysis and image quality scores (IQS) for qualitative image analysis were assessed; the rSI values based on the 3D TOF evaluations were significantly lower than those obtained using 3D ECG-FSE (aorta 3D TOF: 0.57 ± 0.06, aorta 3D ECG-FSE: 0.83 ± 0.06, P < 0.001; external iliac arteries 3D TOF: 0.45 ± 0.06, external iliac arteries 3D ECG-FSE:0.80 ± 0.05, P < 0.001) and similar to those obtained using CE-MRA (aorta: 0.58 ± 0.05, external iliac arteries: 0.57 ± 0.03). Moreover, IQS obtained using 3D TOF were significantly higher than those obtained using 3D ECG-FSE (aorta 3D TOF: 3.95 ± 0.15, aorta 3D ECG-FSE: 2.32 ± 0.60, P < 0.001; external iliac arteries 3D ECG-FSE: 3.98 ± 0.08, external iliac arteries 3D ECG-FSE: 2.23 ± 0.56, P < 0.001) and similar to those obtained using CE-MRA (aorta: 3.61 ± 0.41, external iliac arteries: 3.57 ± 0.41). Thus, 3D TOF is more suitable and produces consistent image quality for visualizing the aorta and external iliac arteries in clinically healthy cats and this will be of great help in the diagnosis of FATE.
Transcriptomics-Based Study of Differentially Expressed Genes Related to Fat Deposition in Tibetan and Yorkshire Pigs
Authors: Gong Xinglong , Zheng Min , Zhang Jian , Ye Yourong , Duan Mengqi , Chamba Yangzom , Wang Zhongbin , Shang Peng
Published: June 2022

Fat deposition traits are one of the key factors in pig production and breeding. The fat deposition capacity of pigs mainly affects the quality of pork and pig productivity. The aim of this study was to analyze the differential expression of mRNA levels in dorsal adipose tissue of Tibetan and York pigs at different growth stages using transcriptomic data to estimate key genes that regulate fat deposition in pigs. The results showed that a total of 32,747 positively expressed genes were present in the dorsal adipose tissue of the two breeds. Differentially expressed gene (DEG) screening of multiple combinations between the two breeds yielded 324 DEGS. Gene ontology (GO) biofunctional enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses showed that these DEGS were mainly involved in lipid metabolic pathways, steroid biosynthetic pathways and lipid biosynthetic processes, sterol biosynthetic processes, brown adipocyte differentiation, and other pathways related to lipid deposition and metabolism. The results showed that ACACA, SLC2A4 and THRSP genes positively regulated the lipid deposition ability and CHPT1 gene negatively regulated the lipid deposition ability in pigs. The results of this experiment suggest a theoretical basis for further studies on the regulatory mechanisms of fat deposition in pigs.
Design and Experiment Evaluation of Load Distribution on the Dual Motors in Cam-Based Variable Stiffness Actuator with Helping Mode
Authors: Mei Fanghua , Bi Shusheng , Cai Yueri , Gao Hanjun
Published: June 2022

This paper presents a novel cam-based variable stiffness actuator (VSA). It significantly differs from its counterparts in that the external load distributes on its two motors with a small difference. It is a feasible method to improve VSA’s output power, especially in compact joints, such as rehabilitation devices. The stiffness adjustment involves a spring-balanced crank-slider mechanism with a variable-length base frame. Its tunable node is the common node for force decomposition, synthesis, stiffness adjustment, and position control by setting it at the common groove of two differential variable-pitch cams. The paper establishes analytical expressions among the pressure angle of the cam pitch curve, load distribution, and its crucial design indexes and constraints. Based on this, the pitch curve synthesis method is put forward to optimize the load distribution. In addition, a reasonable tradeoff can be easily made by locally adjusting the cam pressure angle. So, the dual motors can work against the output load together in the same direction with a close amount. In the fabricated prototype, current stratification caused by the unstable friction direction has been observed. The estimation results of motor frictionless current matched the designed load distribution behavior.
Probabilistic Risk Assessment in Space Launches Using Bayesian Network with Fuzzy Method
Authors: Pan Xing , Ding Song , Zhang Wenjin , Liu Tun , Wang Liqin , Wang Lijing
Published: June 2022

Space launch projects are extremely risky, and any equipment failure or human error may lead to disastrous consequences. Probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) is beneficial to qualitative analysis of risk, but it has not been paid enough attention in risk analysis for space launch systems (SLSs). Compared with most qualitative risk analysis in this field, this paper proposes a risk analysis framework based on Bayesian network (BN) with fuzzy method, which is suitable for probabilistic risk analysis of SLS. This method establishes a risk analysis model of SLS based on statistics and expert experience and reduces the uncertainty of the model by using fuzzy theory. By predicting the system risk probabilities, diagnosing the key risk causes, determining the risk conduction path, and performing a sensitivity analysis, the proposed risk analysis framework is aimed at alleviating this drawback to deal more effectively with the uncertainties in the field of space launches. A case study of space launches demonstrates and verifies the proposed method, and it also provides guidance for similar engineering projects.
A Preliminary Top-Down Parametric Design of Electromechanical Actuator Position Control
Authors: Maré Jean-Charles
Published: June 2022

A top-down process is proposed and virtually validated for the position control of electromechanical actuators (EMA) that use conventional cascade controllers. It aims at facilitating the early design phases of a project by providing a straightforward mean that requires simple algebraic calculations only, from the specified performance and the top-level EMA design parameters. This makes it possible to include realistic control considerations in the preliminary sizing and optimisation phase. The position, speed and current controllers are addressed in sequence. This top-down process is based on the generation and use of charts that define the optimal position gain, speed loop second-order damping factor and natural frequency with respect to the specified performance of the position loop. For each loop, the control design formally specifies the required dynamics and the digital implementation of the following inner loop. A noncausal flow chart summarises the equations used and the interdependencies between data. This potentially allows changing which ones are used as inputs. The process is virtually validated using the example of a flight control actuator. This is achieved with resort to the simulation of a realistic lumped-parameter model, which includes any significant functional and parasitic effects. The virtual tests are run following a bottom–up approach to highlight the pursuit and rejection performance. Using low-, medium- and high-excitation magnitudes, they show the robustness of the controllers against nonlinearities. Finally, the simulation results confirm the soundness of the proposed process.
Future of Irrigation in Agriculture in Southern Europe
Authors: García-Tejero Iván Francisco , Durán-Zuazo Víctor Hugo
Published: June 2022

Water is the most limiting natural resource in many Mediterranean areas of southern Europe, and this, together with the actual scenario of climate change (CC), promotes a framework of uncertainty and creates major challenges concerning the sustainability and viability of the current agro-ecosystems [...]
Effects of Harvest Time on the Yield and Forage Value of Winter Forage Crops in Reclaimed Lands of Korea
Authors: Jang Yeongmi , Choi Bumsik , Sharavdorj Khulan , Lee Suhwan , Cho Jinwoong
Published: June 2022

This research was conducted to select the most suitable winter forage crop varieties for silage in reclaimed land located in the Midwest of Korea by investigating the soil environment, crop growth characteristics, dry weight, and forage value according to growth stage. The slightly alkalescent soil was characterized by a pH of 7.41–7.84, by an electrical conductivity (EC) of 1–2.5 dS/m, and by 440–934 mg/kg of available phosphate. Barley showed the highest chlorophyll content in the heading stage and milk stages, while oats and triticale reached the highest content in the milk and dough stage. In both years, triticale achieved the highest leaf area index (LAI), reaching 4.3–4.8. In addition, triticale showed the highest percentage of dry matter and the highest dry weight in the milk stage. Forage value was the best in the heading stage for all cereal crops; however, its quality decreased as the growth stage proceeded. This study suggests cultivating triticale, which showed high adaptability to reclaimed soil and climatic conditions, as well as good growth and dry weight when harvested between the milk and dough stages. These results indicate that triticale can be cultivated all year round in salty soil and these data can be useful to increase forage production in reclaimed soil.
Impacts of Risk Perception and Environmental Regulation on Farmers’ Sustainable Behaviors of Agricultural Green Production in China
Authors: Li Mingyue , Liu Yu , Huang Yuhe , Wu Lianbei , Chen Kai
Published: June 2022

In China, the excessive application and improper disposal of chemical inputs have posed a great threat to the agricultural ecological environment and human health. The key to solve this problem is to promote the sustainable behaviors of farmers’ agricultural green production (AGP). Based on the micro-survey data of 652 farmers, this study adopts the binary probit model to investigate the impacts of risk perception and environmental regulation on the sustainable behaviors of farmers’ AGP. Results show that both risk perception and environmental regulation have significant effects on farmers’ willingness to engage in sustainable behaviors. Moreover, environmental regulation can positively adjust risk perception to improve farmers’ willingness to engage in sustainable behaviors. In terms of the two-dimensional variables, economic risks create the greatest negative impacts, and their marginal effect is 7.3%, while voluntary regulation creates the strongest positive impacts, and its marginal effect is 14.1%. However, both constrained and voluntary regulation have an enhanced moderating effect, where the effects of voluntary regulation are more remarkable. This is mainly because the environmental regulation policy signed by the government and farmers through the letter of commitment can inspire farmers to continue to implement green agricultural production from the deep heart. Therefore, government policies should constantly reduce farmers’ risk perception in terms of economic input, and adopt restrictive behaviors measures, such as regulatory punishment and voluntary contract, to promote their sustainable behaviors of AGP to the maximum extent.
The Influence of Organic and Mineral Fertilizers on the Quality of Soil Organic Matter and Glomalin Content
Authors: Balík Jiří , Kulhánek Martin , Černý Jindřich , Sedlář Ondřej , Suran Pavel , Asrade Dinkayehu Alamnie
Published: June 2022

The influence of different fertilizers (mineral/organic) on the quantity and quality of soil organic matter was monitored in long-term stationary experiments (27 years) with silage maize monoculture production on Luvisol. The main aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between easily extractable glomalin (EEG), total glomalin (TG), and parameters commonly used for the determination of soil organic matter quality, i.e., the content of humic acids (CHA), fulvic acids (CFA), and potential wettability index (PWI). A significant correlation was found between EEG content and CSOM content, humic acid content (CHA), humic acid/fulvic acid ratio (CHA/CFA), PWI, and index of aromaticity (IAR). Furthermore, the contents of EEG and TG correlated with soil organic carbon (CSOM). Periodical application of sewage sludge and cattle slurry increased the content of glomalin in soils. From the results, it is obvious that data about glomalin content can be used to study soil organic matter quality. A more sensitive method (a method that reacts more to changes in components of soil fertility) seems to be the determination of EEG rather than TG. The factors supporting use of EEG extraction in agronomic practice are mainly the substantially shorter time of analysis than TG, CHA, and CFA determination and lower chemical consumption. Furthermore, the PWI method is even suitable for studying soil organic matter quality. On the other hand, the humus quality ratio (E4/E6) does not provide relevant information about soil organic matter quality.
Characteristics of a Benchmark Loess–Paleosol Profile in Northeast China
Authors: Sun Zhong-Xiu , Jiang Ying-Ying , Wang Qiu-Bing , Jiang Zhuo-Dong , Libohova Zamir , Owens Phillip R.
Published: June 2022

The Chaoyang profile represents a rare multi-period, continuous and complete sequence of aeolian paleo-deposits with a stable sedimentary origin and multi-stage paleoclimatic cycles. Benchmark profiles including soil types at different pedogenic stages can be used for the recognition and classification of paleosols and paleoclimate reconstruction. The loess–paleosol sequence benchmark profile (LBP) is also helpful in comparing the results of paleoenvironment reconstruction from different ecological regions. In this study, a loess–paleosol profile derived from thick loess in Chaoyang city of Liaoning province, Northeast China, was investigated as a well-preserved LBP that included various paleosol types. To determine the nature and origin of the Chaoyang profile, the geographic, stratigraphic and morphological characteristics were described in the field. Bulk samples from 42 horizons were collected for chemical and physical analysis, and sub-sampling of 946 samples at 2 cm intervals from the surface to the bottom were taken to measure grain size distributions and magnetic susceptibility. Results showed that the 19.85 m thick loess–paleosol profile had been continuously deposited since 423 ka BP. The upper part (0–195 cm), or UPP, was predominantly of aeolian loess deposition origin but was mixed with water-reworked materials from a nearby secondary loess source. The middle part (195–228 cm), or MIP, was also indirectly affected by the water-reworking process through the leaching of materials from the overlying UPP. The lower part (228–1985 cm), or LOP, was characterized by four reddish stratigraphic layers interbedded with five yellowish ones, indicating several types of paleosols developed under different ecological environments. The multi-stage paleoclimatic cycles as evidenced by morphological and physical characteristics as well as age dating and magnetic susceptibility correlated well with the Lingtai section and LR04 benthic δ18O. Because of these attributes, the Chaoyang profile can be deemed as a benchmark loess–paleosol profile for the recognition and classification of paleosols and paleoclimate reconstruction in Northeast China. The differences in morphological and physical properties between paleosols and loess suggest different soil fertility and agronomic properties and need further studies to assess their functionality with climate fluctuation.
Phytotoxic Effects of Retentates Extracted from Olive Mill Wastewater Suggest a Path for Bioherbicide Development
Authors: Popolizio Stefano , Fracchiolla Mariano , Leoni Beniamino , Cazzato Eugenio , Camposeo Salvatore
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study was to screen the phytotoxicity of different retentates concentrated in polyphenols and extracted from olive mill wastewater (OMW), namely, nano filtration retentate (RNF) and inverse osmosis retentate (ROI). The activity of both retentates was evaluated using bioassays on dry seeds (with concentrations of 0.0, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 5.0, and 10.0% and compared with CaCl2 solutions to evaluate the salinity effects), on germinated seeds (with concentrations of 0.0, 5.0, and 10.0%), and on the emergence of seedlings from the soil (with concentrations of 0.0, 5.0, and 10.0%). Three indicator plant species were used: Lepidium sativum L. (cress), Solanum lycopersicum L. (tomato), and Triticum turgidum subsp. durum Desf. (durum wheat). The results were expressed as the germination rate or emergence rate (GR or ER, respectively) and as the average germination time or average emergence time (AGT or AET, respectively) depending on the bioassays. Salinity showed a certain effect on the GR. Total or near-total inhibition of germination was obtained with the highest concentrations (5.0–10.0%). The dose of 1.0% of RNF and that of 0.5% of ROI caused delays in the germination of cress. The germination of tomato was delayed by RNF and ROI at concentrations of 0.5% and 1.0%. The AGT of durum wheat was not affected by RNF, but was slightly affected by ROI. The development of the seedlings was inhibited by both retentates. The results in the Petri dishes were also confirmed in pots. Retentates could be evaluated as a basis for the development of bioherbicides.
Evaluation of New Fall Rye Cultivar ‘Bono’ in Single and Double Cropping Systems
Authors: Darambazar Enkhjargal , Larson Kathy , Damiran Daalkhaijav , Lardner Herbert A.
Published: June 2022

A new fall rye (FR, Secale cereale L.) cv. Bono was investigated as a novel cropping option in Saskatchewan, Canada. In this study, the performance of Bono was compared to Hazlet FR, and both cultivars were compared to winter triticale (WT, Triticosecale Wittm.) cv. Pika in single cropping (SC) or in double cropping (DC) systems with spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) was evaluated in the Dark Brown soil zone, 2019–2021. Five replicated (n = 4) treatments were: (i) BonoFR; (ii) HazletFR; (iii) PikaWT; (iv) Barley–BonoFR; and (v) Barley–HazletFR. The first crop of barley was harvested at soft dough stage, followed by the second crop of FR seeded in the same year and harvested between flag leaf to heading emergence the following summer for greenfeed hay. Bono did not differ (p > 0.05) in DMY (1.2 Mg ha−1) or nutritive value from Hazlet, however, both FRs differed (p = 0.01) from WT by higher nitrogen use efficiency (NUE, 41.0 vs. 33.7) and NDF (541.8 vs. 479.3 g kg–1), but lower CP (155.3 vs. 187.1 g kg–1). Double cropping barley with fall ryes increased total DMY, nutrients yield per ha, and minerals uptake by up to 83% and NUE by 35.3%. In conclusion, Bono fall rye could be an equal quality alternative to Hazlet, although the current higher seed price may delay its adoption.
Salicylic Acid Reduces Wheat Yield Loss Caused by High Temperature Stress by Enhancing the Photosynthetic Performance of the Flag Leaves
Authors: Fan Yonghui , Lv Zhaoyan , Li Yuxing , Qin Boya , Song Qingyu , Ma Liangliang , Wu Qianqian , Zhang Wenjing , Ma Shangyu , Ma Chuanxi , Huang Zhenglai
Published: June 2022

High temperature stress during grain filling substantially decreases wheat productivity; thus, to ensure food security, heat tolerance in wheat must be developed. It remains unclear whether exogenous salicylic acid (SA) can induce tolerance to high temperatures in wheat at the grain-filling stage. In this study, a two-year pot culture experiment using the wheat cultivar ‘Yangmai 18’ was conducted from 2018 to 2020. The plants were pre-sprayed with SA from the heading stage (SAH), anthesis stage (SAA), 5 days after anthesis (DAA; SA5), and 10 DAA (SA10). After that, the wheat plants were subjected to high temperature stress (G) simulated using a passive warming method during the period between 15 and 19 DAA. The results showed that, compared with the normal temperature control group (NN), high temperature stress at the grain-filling stage significantly reduced the yield and photosynthetic capacity of wheat. The application of SA at different stages reduced the yield loss and the damage to the photosynthetic capacity caused by high temperature stress; the effectiveness of the treatments in descending order was SAAG > SA5G > SA10G > SAHG. Exogenous SA treatment increased the amount and proportion of dry matter distributed in the stem sheaths and leaves and grains, and decreased the amount and proportion of dry matter distributed in the rachises and glumes at the maturity stage, thereby reducing the yield loss under high temperature stress. The application of SA significantly increased the leaf area, stomatal density, chlorophyll content, soluble protein content, maximum photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm), actual photochemical efficiency (ΦPSII), and activity of sucrose phosphate synthase (SPS) of the wheat flag leaves under high temperature stress at the grain-filling stage, thereby improving the photosynthetic performance of the flag leaves under stress. In summary, exogenous SA significantly restored the photosynthetic capacity of wheat flag leaves injured by post-anthesis high temperature stress, which effectively alleviated the inhibition of wheat growth caused by the stress and ultimately reduced the yield loss. Spraying SA at the anthesis stage had the greatest effect abating the loss of yield and reduced photosynthetic performance under high temperature stress.
Transmissibility and Persistence of the Plasmid-Borne Mobile Colistin Resistance Gene, mcr-1, Harbored in Poultry-Associated E. coli
Authors: Al Mana Hassan , Johar Alreem A. , Kassem Issmat I. , Eltai Nahla O.
Published: June 2022

Colistin, a last-resort antibiotic, is used to treat infections caused by multi-drug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Colistin resistance can emerge by acquiring the mobile colistin gene, mcr-1, usually plasmid borne. Studies on mcr-1 and its transmissibility are limited in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Here, we investigated the occurrence of mcr-1 in 18 previously collected Escherichia coli isolates collected from chicken samples in Qatar; whole-genome sequencing was performed to determine the location (plasmid-borne and chromosomal) of mcr-1 in the isolates. Additionally, we assessed the transmissibility of plasmid-borne mcr-1 and its cost on fitness in E. coli biofilms. Our results showed that the E. coli isolates belonged to different sequence types, indicating that mcr-1 was occurring in strains with diverse genetic backgrounds. In silico analysis and transformation assays showed that all the isolates carried mcr-1 on plasmids that were mainly IncI2 types. All the mcr-1 plasmids were found to be transmissible by conjugation. In biofilms, a significant reduction in the number of CFU (≈0.055 logs CFU/mL) and colistin resistance (≈2.19 log CFU/mL) was observed; however, the reduction in resistance was significantly larger, indicating that the plasmids incur a high fitness cost. To our knowledge, this is the first study that investigates mcr-1 transmissibility and persistence in Qatar. Our findings highlight that mcr has the potential to spread colistin resistance to potentially disparate strains and niches in Qatar, posing a risk that requires intervention.
Survey on Carbapenem-Resistant Bacteria in Pigs at Slaughter and Comparison with Human Clinical Isolates in Italy
Authors: Bonardi Silvia , Cabassi Clotilde Silvia , Manfreda Gerardo , Parisi Antonio , Fiaccadori Enrico , Sabatino Alice , Cavirani Sandro , Bacci Cristina , Rega Martina , Spadini Costanza , Iannarelli Mattia , Crippa Cecilia , Ruocco Ferdinando , Pasquali Frédérique
Published: June 2022

This study is focused on resistance to carbapenems and third-generation cephalosporins in Gram-negative microorganisms isolated from swine, whose transmission to humans via pork consumption cannot be excluded. In addition, the common carriage of carbapenem-resistant (CR) bacteria between humans and pigs was evaluated. Sampling involved 300 faecal samples collected from slaughtered pigs and 300 urine samples collected from 187 hospitalised patients in Parma Province (Italy). In swine, MIC testing confirmed resistance to meropenem for isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas oryzihabitans and resistance to cefotaxime and ceftazidime for Escherichia coli, Ewingella americana, Enterobacter agglomerans, and Citrobacter freundii. For Acinetobacter lwoffii, Aeromonas hydrofila, Burkolderia cepacia, Corynebacterium indologenes, Flavobacterium odoratum, and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, no EUCAST MIC breakpoints were available. However, ESBL genes (blaCTXM-1, blaCTX-M-2, blaTEM-1, and blaSHV) and AmpC genes (blaCIT, blaACC, and blaEBC) were found in 38 and 16 isolates, respectively. P. aeruginosa was the only CR species shared by pigs (4/300 pigs; 1.3%) and patients (2/187; 1.1%). P. aeruginosa ST938 carrying blaPAO and blaOXA396 was detected in one pig as well as an 83-year-old patient. Although no direct epidemiological link was demonstrable, SNP calling and cgMLST showed a genetic relationship of the isolates (86 SNPs and 661 allele difference), thus suggesting possible circulation of CR bacteria between swine and humans.
The Urinary Resistome of Clinically Healthy Companion Dogs: Potential One Health Implications
Authors: Melgarejo Tonatiuh , Sharp Nathan , Krumbeck Janina , Wu Guangxi , Kim Young , Linde Annika
Published: June 2022

An interdisciplinary approach to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is essential to effectively address what is projected to soon become a public health disaster. Veterinary medicine accounts for a majority of antimicrobial use, and mainly in support of industrial food animal production (IFAP), which has significant exposure implications for human and nonhuman animals. Companion dogs live in close proximity to humans and share environmental exposures, including food sources. This study aimed to elucidate the AMR-gene presence in microorganisms recovered from urine from clinically healthy dogs to highlight public health considerations in the context of a species-spanning framework. Urine was collected through cystocentesis from 50 companion dogs in Southern California, and microbial DNA was analyzed using next-generation sequencing. Thirteen AMR genes in urine from 48% of the dogs {n=24} were detected. The most common AMR genes were aph(3′)Ia, and ermB, which confer resistance to aminoglycosides and MLS (macrolides, lincosamides, streptogramins) antibiotics, respectively. Antibiotic-resistance profiles based on the AMR genes detected, and the intrinsic resistance profiles of bacterial species, were inferred in 24% of the samples {n=12} for 57 species, with most belonging to Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Corynebacterium genera. The presence of AMR genes that confer resistance to medically important antibiotics suggests that dogs may serve as reservoirs of clinically relevant resistomes, which is likely rooted in excessive IFAP antimicrobial use.
Bacterial Resistance to Antibiotics and Clonal Spread in COVID-19-Positive Patients on a Tertiary Hospital Intensive Care Unit, Czech Republic
Authors: Doubravská Lenka , Htoutou Sedláková Miroslava , Fišerová Kateřina , Pudová Vendula , Urbánek Karel , Petrželová Jana , Röderová Magdalena , Langová Kateřina , Mezerová Kristýna , Kučová Pavla , Axmann Karel , Kolář Milan
Published: June 2022

This observational retrospective study aimed to analyze whether/how the spectrum of bacterial pathogens and their resistance to antibiotics changed during the worst part of the COVID-19 pandemic (1 November 2020 to 30 April 2021) among intensive care patients in University Hospital Olomouc, Czech Republic, as compared with the pre-pandemic period (1 November 2018 to 30 April 2019). A total of 789 clinically important bacterial isolates from 189 patients were cultured during the pre-COVID-19 period. The most frequent etiologic agents causing nosocomial infections were strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae (17%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (11%), Escherichia coli (10%), coagulase-negative staphylococci (9%), Burkholderia multivorans (8%), Enterococcus faecium (6%), Enterococcus faecalis (5%), Proteus mirabilis (5%) and Staphylococcus aureus (5%). Over the comparable COVID-19 period, a total of 1500 bacterial isolates from 372 SARS-CoV-2-positive patients were assessed. While the percentage of etiological agents causing nosocomial infections increased in Enterococcus faecium (from 6% to 19%, p < 0.0001), Klebsiella variicola (from 1% to 6%, p = 0.0004) and Serratia marcescens (from 1% to 8%, p < 0.0001), there were significant decreases in Escherichia coli (from 10% to 3%, p < 0.0001), Proteus mirabilis (from 5% to 2%, p = 0.004) and Staphylococcus aureus (from 5% to 2%, p = 0.004). The study demonstrated that the changes in bacterial resistance to antibiotics are ambiguous. An increase in the frequency of ESBL-positive strains of some species (Serratia marcescens and Enterobacter cloacae) was confirmed; on the other hand, resistance decreased (Escherichia coli, Acinetobacter baumannii) or the proportion of resistant strains remained unchanged over both periods (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterococcus faecium). Changes in pathogen distribution and resistance were caused partly due to antibiotic selection pressure (cefotaxime consumption increased significantly in the COVID-19 period), but mainly due to clonal spread of identical bacterial isolates from patient to patient, which was confirmed by the pulse field gel electrophoresis methodology. In addition to the above shown results, the importance of infection prevention and control in healthcare facilities is discussed, not only for dealing with SARS-CoV-2 but also for limiting the spread of bacteria.