bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyaluronic acid-solid lipid nano transporter serum preparation for enhancing topical tretinoin delivery: skin safety study and visual assessment of skin
Authors: Mehmood Yasir , Shahid Hira , Rizvi Syeda Momena , Jamshaid Usama , Arshad Numera , Nur-e-Alam Mohammad , Hussain Muhammad Delwar , Kazi Mohsin
Published: September 2024

The use of nanosized particles is becoming more popular for the topical treatment of skin conditions. In this research work, we created and investigated the effects of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) containing hyaluronic acid and tretinoin. Solvent emulsification diffusion method was used to prepare the SLN formulation and characterized for their physicochemical properties. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to confirm that hyaluronic acid and tretinoin were incorporated in the SLN. Furthermore, X-ray diffractogram, thermal analysis including DSC and TGA and in vitro dissolution, permeation tests were also performed along with microbial assessment. Clinical studies in human were performed to evaluate the effect of the SLN on skin wrinkles. The SLN was 750 ± 31.29 nm in size, with a zeta potential of 13.07 ± 0.75 mV and a narrow polydispersity index of 0.24 ± 0.12. The entrapment efficiency of tretinoin was found to be 90.07 ± 4.79%. Clinical studies in healthy human volunteers demonstrated that 90% of the tested individuals had improved skin conditions (reduction in wrinkles), by at least one grade after 4 weeks of treatment. Regarding the development on SLN, it was found that the internal phase concentration did not considerably affect the physicochemical and microbiological properties. Therefore, Hyaluronic acid has potential for the development of SLN applicable to cosmetic formulations, especially for skin. These findings show that the developed SLN have potential for use as cosmetics in the future.
Prospective proof-of-concept observational RESEarch about traditional herbal preparation Treatment for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (RESET-COPD-1)
Authors: Park Dasol , Leem Jungtae , Lee Beom-Joon , Kim Kwan-Il , Jung Hee-Jae
Published: September 2024

Background

Despite advances in medical science, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) continues to impact patients’ lives significantly, due to symptom management limitations. Cheongsangboha-tang (CSBHT; Qing Shang Bu Xia Tang) and Hyunggaeyeongyo-tang (HGYGT; Jing Jie Lian Qiao Tang) have been used to treat respiratory diseases, including COPD. However, clinical data supporting their efficacy are lacking. We prospectively observed the response of patients with COPD to CSBHT and HGYGT as adjunctive therapies and assessed the feasibility of future research.

Methods

Patients with COPD who were prescribed adjunctive HGYGT or CSBHT according to the COPD clinical practice protocol of Kyung Hee University Korean Medicine Hospital were recruited. Participants visited the hospital every month, for 6 months, to receive herbal preparations according to a Korean Medicine doctor’s diagnosis and prescription and outcome evaluations. The primary outcome was the 6-min walking test (6-MWT). Secondary outcomes included the pulmonary function test (PFT), COPD Assessment Test (CAT), St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), and modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) score. Syndrome differentiation, adverse events, and patient adherence were recorded.

Results

Thirty-seven patients were initially enrolled and followed up for a mean period of 154.1 days. CSBHT was prescribed to 36 patients, while one patient received either CSBHT or HGYGT, or both, throughout the entire period. During the herbal preparation treatment period, no statistically significant changes were observed in the 6-MWT. The CAT score (mean ± standard deviation) changed from 17.0 ± 5.0 to 12.5 ± 3.6, and the visual analogue scale score for dyspnea changed from 47.5 ± 18.9 to 28.4 ± 18.6 (both statistically significant from visit 5). The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic precluded the PFT. SGRQ and mMRC scores did not change significantly. During the study period, seven patients dropped out, two experienced mild dyspepsia, and one experienced mild headache. No serious adverse effects were observed.

Conclusion

We illustrated the therapeutic potential of CSBHT and provided preliminary clinical data on its efficacy and safety in patients with COPD. Our study highlights the need to derive optimal herbal formulations, which should be administered for an appropriate duration, based on the therapeutic goals for the treatment of COPD.
Study of the characteristics of electron firehose unstable conditions in the terrestrial magnetotail plasma sheet
Authors: Wei Jiayun , Wang Guoqiang , Zuo Pingbing
Published: September 2024

Electron firehose instabilities can be excited at dipolarization fronts and in the magnetic reconnection outflow in the terrestrial magnetotail, but their occurrence rate in the plasma sheet is unclear. Here, we investigate the characteristics of electron firehose unstable conditions in the magnetotail plasma sheet based on observations of the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission. We find an Alfvénic magnetic field fluctuation accompanied by a strong field-aligned current during a flapping motion. This fluctuation occurs where the local plasma is electron firehose unstable, indicating that the electron firehose instability in the plasma sheet can occur in the region besides dipolarization fronts and magnetic reconnection outflow. We statistically find that the local plasma near the neutral sheet has a small probability with the maximum value <1.4% to be electron firehose unstable, which mainly occurs in the central plasma sheet with BXY/BL < 0.3. The maximum probability of Tef > 0 (electron firehose unstable condition) is ∼1.36% (1.32%) at BXY/BL ≈ 0.05 (0.15) during fast (non-fast) flows. During fast flows, the plasma near the neutral sheet tends to have a higher probability of Tef > 0 when the local VT is larger. During non-fast flows, the plasma near the neutral sheet tends to have a higher probability of Tef > 0 when Te is larger. The probability of Tef > 0 shows a dawn-dusk asymmetry during fast flows and non-fast flows. In addition, the probability of Tef > 0 during fast flows tends to be larger when the ambient BZ is weak, which shows opposite characteristics during non-fast flows. These findings help to assess the importance of the role of electron firehose instabilities in the magnetotail plasma sheet.
Compressing recognition network of cotton disease with spot-adaptive knowledge distillation
Authors: Zhang Xinwen , Feng Quan , Zhu Dongqin , Liang Xue , Zhang Jianhua
Published: September 2024

Deep networks play a crucial role in the recognition of agricultural diseases. However, these networks often come with numerous parameters and large sizes, posing a challenge for direct deployment on resource-limited edge computing devices for plant protection robots. To tackle this challenge for recognizing cotton diseases on the edge device, we adopt knowledge distillation to compress the big networks, aiming to reduce the number of parameters and the computational complexity of the networks. In order to get excellent performance, we conduct combined comparison experiments from three aspects: teacher network, student network and distillation algorithm. The teacher networks contain three classical convolutional neural networks, while the student networks include six lightweight networks in two categories of homogeneous and heterogeneous structures. In addition, we investigate nine distillation algorithms using spot-adaptive strategy. The results demonstrate that the combination of DenseNet40 as the teacher and ShuffleNetV2 as the student show best performance when using NST algorithm, yielding a recognition accuracy of 90.59% and reducing FLOPs from 0.29 G to 0.045 G. The proposed method can facilitate the lightweighting of the model for recognizing cotton diseases while maintaining high recognition accuracy and offer a practical solution for deploying deep models on edge computing devices.
Who can afford to dissent at work? The mediating effect of organizational socialization on the relationship between social capital and organizational dissent
Authors: Ak Murat , Turkmenoglu Mehmet Ali , Acar Duygu , Ramiz Hacarlioglu Abdullah , Ozbilgin Mustafa
Published: September 2024

Introduction

In today’s interconnected world, fostering a culture of constructive dissent within organizations is more important than ever. Our study sheds light on how social capital—our networks and relationships—affects employees’ ability to express dissent. This study aims to empirically examine whether organizational socialization has a mediating effect on the relationship between social capital and organizational dissent.

Methods

We utilized surveys to collect data from participants. Quantitative data was collected from 240 employees within the textile in Türkiye. We used structural equation modeling through SmartPLS to test four hypotheses.

Results

According to the results of the SEM, social capital positively affects organizational dissent. Similarly, social capital positively affects organizational socialization. The mediation level of organizational socialization is at the level of partial mediation on the relationship between social capital and organizational dissent. Based on the results, organizational socialization positively affects organizational dissent.

Discussion

We contribute to the literature by extending social capital research by illustrating that employees’ social relationships lead to organizational socialization and organizational dissent behavior at work. The results suggest that the ability of employees to show dissent behavior is conditioned by their social capital and mediated by organizational socialization. This research is particularly relevant in sectors with hierarchical structures, where encouraging voice and participation can lead to significant advancements.
Enhancing career adaptability in college students: a Tai Chi-based sports intervention study
Authors: Wang Le , Zhai Yuanyan , Sun Qichao
Published: September 2024

Introduction

This research explores the impact of Tai Chi, a traditional Chinese martial art, on the career adaptability of college students, utilizing a quasi-experimental design. With the increasing complexities in the transition from school to work, effective interventions that address both psychological and vocational needs are essential.

Methods

The study involved 70 senior college students, randomly assigned to either an intervention group that participated in an organized 8-week Tai Chi program based on positive youth development (PYD) or a control group with no intervention.

Results

Results indicated significant improvements in the intervention group in terms of both career adaptability and satisfaction of basic psychological needs, compared to the control group. Mediation analysis revealed that the increase in career adaptability induced by intervention was mediated by the satisfaction of basic psychological needs, underscoring the effectiveness of Tai Chi as a holistic intervention tool.

Discussion

This study contributes to the field by demonstrating that physical activity, particularly one embedded with deep cultural and philosophical significance like Tai Chi, can effectively enhance the career adaptability of college students. It advocates for the inclusion of PYD-based physical practices in developmental interventions aimed at preparing youth for the challenges of the modern workforce.
Role of stimulus dose on neuropsychological functioning after electroconvulsive therapy in patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: Rummel Lea , Göke Katharina , Philipsen Alexandra , Hurlemann René , Kiebs Maximilian
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective treatment for patients suffering from treatment-resistant depression but its use is often limited by the concern for cognitive side effects. This study examines the effect of ECT on autobiographical and verbal memory compared to a healthy control group and the impact of the mean stimulus dose on cognition after ECT.

Methods

Autobiographical and verbal memory were assessed in depressed patients and healthy controls before the first and within one week after the last ECT treatment. Neuropsychological testing included the Autobiographical Memory Interview, the Verbal Learning and Memory Test and five tests from the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery. The mean charge delivered across the ECT series and the total number of sessions were examined in relationship to cognitive impairment after ECT using a multiple regression model.

Results

Autobiographical memory was significantly impaired after ECT treatment compared to healthy controls. Baseline scores were lower for depressed patients on all cognitive domains. Improvements in performance after ECT were found on tests for executive functions and working memory. Effects of the mean charge delivered on cognitive functioning after ECT were heterogeneous across cognitive domains but significant for verbal retrograde memory.

Conclusion

ECT led to autobiographical memory impairment. The relationship between mean charge delivered and cognitive performance is heterogeneous across different cognitive domains and requires further research. Significant effects of the mean charge delivered were found without a significant difference in cognitive functioning compared to a healthy control group.
Impact of informal social support on the mental health of older adults
Authors: Dong Yi , Cheng Lanyan , Cao Hailin
Published: September 2024

Objective

The role of informal social support in fostering active aging within the context of the “silver wave” is significant. This study investigated how such support influenced the mental health of older adults, with the goal of affirming its indispensable contribution to enhancing their psychological well-being.

Methods

Employing Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to construct the informal social support variable, this study rigorously analyzed the effects and underlying mechanisms of informal social support on mental health in older adults, utilizing data from the 2018 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS).

Results

Informal social support exerted a substantial positive influence on the mental health of older adults, particularly among younger, non-agricultural older adult populations who preferred cohabitation with their children. This form of support significantly enhanced mental well-being by elevating life satisfaction, improving access to medical services, and fostering active social engagement.

Conclusion

This study elucidates the role of informal social support in bolstering the mental health of older adults. Future efforts should focus on fostering a supportive environment that enhances older adult care experiences, reforming the healthcare system to better meet the needs of the aging population, and promoting avenues for social engagement, thereby achieving a balanced integration of their emotional and physical care.
Siamese and triplet network-based pain expression in robotic avatars for care and nursing training
Authors: Lee Miran , Lee Minjeong , Kim Suyeong
Published: September 2024

Care and nursing training (CNT) refers to developing the ability to effectively respond to patient needs by investigating their requests and improving trainees’ care skills in a caring environment. Although conventional CNT programs have been conducted based on videos, books, and role-playing, the best approach is to practice on a real human. However, it is challenging to recruit patients for continuous training, and the patients may experience fatigue or boredom with iterative testing. As an alternative approach, a patient robot that reproduces various human diseases and provides feedback to trainees has been introduced. This study presents a patient robot that can express feelings of pain, similarly to a real human, in joint care education. The two primary objectives of the proposed patient robot-based care training system are (a) to infer the pain felt by the patient robot and intuitively provide the trainee with the patient’s pain state, and (b) to provide facial expression-based visual feedback of the patient robot for care training.
Effects of heat stress on oxidative balance and sperm quality in dogs
Authors: Burgio Matteo , Forte Lucrezia , Prete Andrea , Maggiolino Aristide , De Palo Pasquale , Aiudi Giulio Guido , Rizzo Annalisa , Carbonari Alice , Lacalandra Giovanni Michele , Cicirelli Vincenzo
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Heat stress negatively affects both animal reproductive performance and their overall wellbeing and welfare. When temperatures soar, the body responds to maintain balance, resulting in heat stress. This triggers various responses, including the buildup of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can harm sperm vitality through lipid peroxidation. Oxidative damage can result in sperm dysfunction. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of environmental heat stress on canine quantitative and qualitative ejaculate parameters.

Methods

Thirty-six male crossbred dogs were involved in the trial. This study was performed in 2022, precisely from May to August. Dogs were subdivided in two groups, one heat stressed (HS) and one in thermoneutrality (TN). Thermo Hygrometric Index (THI) was hourly measured and ranged from 60 to 71 in TN dogs and from 60 to 83 for HS dogs. Semen and blood samples were collected at 30-day intervals, starting from May (0 days), and then at 30 days, 60 days, and 90 days and analysis for evaluating biochemical profile, semen oxidative status, and semen quality were performed.

Results

In HS dogs, serum total protein, albumin, and urea concentrations showed a significant decrease after 60 days (P < 0.01), with values lower than those observed in TN dogs (P < 0.01). Both catalase and glutathione peroxidase concentrations were reduced after 60 days in HS dogs, showing lower levels than the TN group (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively). Antioxidant potential increased over time in HS dogs, reaching higher values at 60 days (P < 0.05) and 90 days (P < 0.01). On the other hand, ROS in the sperm of HS animals rose by day 90, surpassing the values recorded at previous time points and in TN dogs (P < 0.01). Semen concentration (P > 0.01) and total sperm count (P < 0.05) declined after 30 days in the HS group and remained lower than the TN group throughout the trial.

Discussion

The study demonstrates that heat stress negatively affects the oxidative status and sperm quality of male dogs, reducing reproductive performance. However, further research is needed due to the lack of complete breed homogeneity in the study groups.
Institutional arrangements and economic analysis of the management of livestock water infrastructure investments in agro-pastoral areas of Teso and Karamoja in Uganda
Authors: Aseete Paul , Ilukor John , Bagamba Fredrick , Lwiza Florence , Walusimbi Sadhat , Ng’andwe Pushina Kunda , Oryokot Joseph , Ndamira Barbara Magezi , Sebudde Rachel K.
Published: September 2024

The study aimed to evaluate the utilization, management structures, costs, and benefits of livestock water infrastructure in the pastoral communities of the Teso and Karamoja sub-regions. Data were collected on various water infrastructures, including boreholes, valley dams, and valley tanks. The findings suggest that investing in water infrastructure is economically viable, although functionality and usage differ across regions. Water use associations (WUAs) and community volunteers predominantly managed the water infrastructure, with local governments providing oversight. In Teso, 45%–75% of water use associations were deemed functional, compared to a lower rate of 33%–40% in Karamoja. Generally, users of water infrastructure in Teso demonstrated a higher willingness to pay for various services compared to those in Karamoja. The study also found that, under the status quo, co-management and joint efforts between WUAs and volunteers could be more economically viable management structures for boreholes. Valley dams could be better managed by WUAs, while local governments, with community support, could effectively manage valley tanks. The major challenges in managing water facilities included free riding, failure to enforce regulations, the potential for ownership tragedy, inadequacies in managing technologies, and the effects of drought. The research and implications of these findings are further discussed in the study.
The Dynamics of Soil Macropores and Hydraulic Conductivity as Influenced by the Fibrous and Tap Root Systems
Authors: Tang Yixuan , Pan Heping , Zhang Ting , Cao Longxi , Wang Yi
Published: September 2024

Herbaceous plants influence soil hydraulic conductivity by changing soil macropore structure through their root systems, but the effects of different root types on macropore structure have yet to be clarified. In this study, soil column experiments were conducted to investigate temporal variations in soil macropores and saturated hydraulic conductivity, as influenced by herbaceous plants with fibrous roots (Cynodon dactylon) and taproots (Medicago sativa L.). Computed tomography (CT) scanning was used to quantify soil macropore indices, and the saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) was measured from April to November after 3, 5, and 7 months of sowing. The results showed that both soil macropore indices and Ks increased with grass growth. The taproots had macroporosity (MP), macropore diameter (MD), and global connectivity (Γ) values that were 1.94, 2.76, and 2.45 times higher than fibrous roots, which are more efficient at increasing the number of soil macropores (PN). This resulted in higher Ks values for the fibrous roots during the experimental period than for the taproot herbs. For both plants, the top 5 cm of soil had a higher macropore index and Ks values than the bottom layer. The Ks for fibrous roots was most closely related to PN. On the other hand, Ks for the taproot soil column was most closely related to MP and MD. Based on a combination of soil macropore indices, functions were established to predict Ks values for fibrous root and taproot herbaceous plants.
Does Rural Labor Transfer Contribute to the Reduction in Chemical Fertilizer Use? Evidence from China’s Household Finance Survey Data in China
Authors: Qin Xianhong , Guan Yongjin
Published: September 2024

In recent years, the Chinese government has been continuously promoting reduced use of chemical fertilizers and enhancing the sustainable development capacity of agriculture. This study uses China’s Household Finance Survey (CHFS) data to explore the impact of rural labor transfer on the intensity of fertilizer use and examines the mediating role of agricultural machinery services. The results show that: (1) rural labor transfer is helpful for reducing chemical fertilizer use, and it has a negative impact on the intensity of chemical fertilizer use; (2) rural labor transfer will enhance the socialization of agricultural machinery services by promoting the adoption of mechanized fertilization and expanding the scale of agricultural land management to promote the reduction of chemical fertilizers use; (3) different topographic conditions have different regulatory effects on the use of socialized agricultural machinery services, and for mountainous areas with poor topographic conditions, socialized agricultural machinery services may be difficult to implement, resulting in poor effects of chemical fertilizer use reduction. These findings provide important evidence for sustainable agriculture development and have significant theoretical and policy implications.
Plant Disease Identification Based on Encoder–Decoder Model
Authors: Feng Wenfeng , Sun Guoying , Zhang Xin
Published: September 2024

Plant disease identification is a crucial issue in agriculture, and with the advancement of deep learning techniques, early and accurate identification of plant diseases has become increasingly critical. In recent years, the rise of vision transformers has attracted significant attention from researchers in various vision-based application areas. We designed a model with an encoder–decoder architecture to efficiently classify plant diseases using a transfer learning approach, which effectively recognizes a large number of plant diseases in multiple crops. The model was tested on the “PlantVillage”, “FGVC8”, and “EMBRAPA” datasets, which contain leaf information from crops such as apples, soybeans, tomatoes, and potatoes. These datasets cover diseases caused by fungi, including rust, spot, and scab, as well as viral diseases such as leaf curl. The model’s performance was rigorously evaluated on datasets, and the results demonstrated its high accuracy. The model achieved 99.9% accuracy on the “PlantVillage” dataset, 97.4% on the “EMBRAPA” dataset, and 91.5% on the “FGVC8” dataset, showcasing its competitiveness with other state-of-the-art models. This study provides a robust and reliable solution for plant disease classification and contributes to the advancement of precision agriculture.
Effects of Storage Conditions, Cultivars, and Production Systems on Fruit Decay Incidence of Sour Cherry (Prunus cerasus L.) Fruit after Shelf-Life Conditions
Authors: Sándor Erzsébet , Mihály Kata , Nagy Antal , Pál Károly , Peles Ferenc , Zabiák Andrea , Kovács Csilla , Takács Ferenc , Romanazzi Gianfranco , Holb Imre J.
Published: September 2024

Sour cherry is a non-climacteric fruit that quickly loses its quality after harvest, so effective storage and packaging are essential to minimize postharvest decay. Our study aimed to (i) evaluate fruit decay incidence during shelf-life for both freshly harvested and six-week-cold-stored sour cherry fruits, comparing normal atmospheric conditions with modified atmosphere packaging across three sour cherry cultivars (‘Érdi bőtermő’, ‘Újfehértói fürtös’, and ‘Petri’); and (ii) assess postharvest fruit decay incidence across the following three production systems: conventional, integrated pest management (IPM), and reduced IPM, for the cultivar ‘Érdi bőtermő’. The results showed that modified atmosphere packaging effectively preserved or slightly increased fruit firmness (ranging from 27.1 to 46%) compared to control fruits across all cultivars. Fruit weight loss (ranging from 1.18 to 26.1%) was also significantly reduced under modified atmosphere packaging compared to normal atmospheric storage. Over a 14-day period, the decay incidence of harvested fruits consistently increased, with major losses from day 6 onward (ranging from 17.7 to 77.0% at shelf-life day 14) across all cultivars and years. After six weeks of normal atmospheric cold storage, decay incidence remained low (ranging from 0 to 9.4%) and was comparable across all cultivars. Both normal atmospheric and modified atmosphere packaging storage maintained sour cherry quality during cold storage, but the shelf-life of the fruits was significantly shorter at room temperature, regardless of the storage methods. Fruit decay incidence at harvest was highest in the reduced IPM system (ranging from 3.2 to 6.4%), significantly exceeding those observed in the conventional and IPM systems. In post-MAP cold storage, decay incidence followed the following order: conventional < IPM < reduced IPM, with significant differences observed only between the conventional and reduced IPM systems. In conclusion, our results suggest that sour cherries produced under conventional or IPM systems and stored in modified atmosphere packaging offer an effective postharvest strategy for preserving fruit quality.
Common Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare L.) Growth on Sandy Soil—Insights from a Pot Experiment
Authors: von Cossel Moritz , Kunisch Jana , Iqbal Yasir , Berwanger Eva , Thiel Theresa , Gandamalla Gawasker , Jablonowski Nicolai D.
Published: September 2024

The cultivation of perennial flowering wild plant species like common tansy (Tanacetum vulgare L.) seems promising for increasing biodiversity friendliness in rather monotonous bioenergy cropping systems in Central Europe, particularly on marginal sites. However, it is still unclear for which types of marginal agricultural land common tansy would be suitable and where; as a result, low-risk indirect land-use change biomass production through common tansy could be considered. Therefore, the aim of this study was to gather initial insights into the suitability of common tansy for sandy sites by means of a 6 L-pot experiment. For this purpose, five replicates of three substrates were prepared: Luvisol topsoil (control) from a field site near the University of Hohenheim, Germany; and admixtures of 50 and 83.4weight(wt)% of sand to the control (M1, and M2), respectively. This resulted in varying sand contents of the substrates of 4.7 (control), 53.3 (M1), and 83.0wt% (M2). In autumn 2021, common tansy seeds were collected from mother plants bearing the breeder’s indentifier ‘Z.8TAV 85/78’. These plants were part of a long-term field trial initiated at Hohenheim in 2014, where common tansy was grown as part of a wild plant mixture. In June 2022, 0.5 g of the seeds were sown in each pot. The pots were placed in outdoor conditions, arranged in a randomized complete block design and watered evenly as required. At harvest in July 2023, significant differences between the substrates in terms of the above- (shoots) and belowground (roots) development of the common tansy seedlings were observed. In M1, common tansy provided notable biomass growth of 56.6% of the control, proving to be potentially suitable for low-input cultivation under sandy soil conditions. However, an even higher share of sand and low nutrient contents in M2 resulted in minor plant development (14.4% of the control). Hence, field trials on sandy soils of about 50wt% of sand in the texture under tailored fertilization and various climatic conditions are recommended.
Feasibility of Using Secondary Attributes in Sensory Analysis to Characterize Protected Designation of Origin of Olive Oil
Authors: García-Pizarro Angel , Romero Agustí , Martí Esteve , Hermoso Juan F. , Ninot Antonia , Aceña Laura , Mestres Montserrat
Published: September 2024

Protected denomination of origin (PDO) designations require tools to enable differentiation, as each PDO aims to establish its own distinct and exclusive identity. This necessity becomes particularly challenging in those regions where PDO territories are very close to each other, as is the situation with the extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) PDOs in Catalonia. The proximity of these territories can make it difficult to perceive the uniqueness of each area solely on the basis of the evaluation of a few general sensory descriptors. This study examines whether the frequency of use of different secondary attributes, established by the Official Tasting Panel of Virgin Olive Oils of Catalonia, can effectively differentiate PDOs. Thus, a total of 1330 EVOOs from the five Catalan PDOs, produced during the 2012–2020 period, have been analyzed by the Official Tasting Panel of Virgin Olive Oils of Catalonia. The results of the statistical analysis, using this historical database of samples, show that the frequency of the attributes does not occur randomly, but is significantly influenced by the production area and the olive cultivars associated with each PDO. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating specific secondary descriptors into the bidding specifications of PDOs, which can be a useful discriminant tool.
Prediction of Postoperative Complications after Major Lung Resection: A Literature Review
Authors: Roungeris Loizos , Devadze Guram , Talliou Christina , Griva Panagiota
Published: September 2024

Background: Lung resection is the primary treatment option for many patients with lung cancer; however, it is a high-risk surgery with many potentially lethal perioperative complications. The aim of this review is to examine the capability of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO), maximal oxygen uptake in exercise (VO2max), and maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (PImax and PEmax, respectively) to predict postoperative lung function. Methods: A literature review was performed using PubMed and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Metaanalyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The research included articles after 2000. Experimental studies on animals, studies before 2000, and studies in a language other than English were excluded. Results: A total of 11 studies were included in this review. The main findings were highlighted. In addition, the optimal threshold values of FEV1, DLCO, VO2max, and PImax as well as PEmax were discussed. Conclusions: Preoperative FEV1, DLCO, VO2max, and PImax as well as PEmax have all proven to be independent risk factors for the prediction of postoperative morbidity, mortality, and cardiopulmonary complications after lung resection surgery.
How Attachment to Dogs and to Other Humans Relate to Mental Health
Authors: Northrope Katherine , Ruby Matthew B. , Howell Tiffani J.
Published: September 2024

It is unclear how pet ownership is related to mental health, with some previous research suggesting pet owners have better mental health, while other research suggests they have worse mental health. Some researchers have suggested that it may be more useful to investigate the bond people feel with their pets and how this may impact mental health; however, this too has led to mixed results. This study examined how owners’ attachment to their dogs was associated with mental health and how this compared to their attachment relationships with other humans in a sample of 607 dog owners. Our findings indicate that both strong and insecure attachments to dogs are linked to poorer mental health outcomes, as was having an insecure attachment style in their human relationships. The adverse impact of strong attachment to dogs on mental health was mediated by these owners having an anxious attachment style toward other people, which in turn was associated with poorer mental health. The relationship between a strong attachment to dogs and poorer mental health was also moderated by gender, with this relationship being significant in women but not significant for men. Together, these results suggest a possible risk to mental health for owners who form a strong attachment to their dogs to compensate for anxious attachments in human relationships.
Genetic Diversity and Selection Signal Analysis of Hu Sheep Based on SNP50K BeadChip
Authors: Ma Keyan , Song Juanjuan , Li Dengpan , Li Taotao , Ma Youji
Published: September 2024

This research is designed to examine the genetic diversity and kinship among Hu sheep, as well as to discover genes associated with crucial economic traits. A selection of 50 unrelated adult male Hu sheep underwent genotyping with the SNP50K BeadChip. Seven indicators of genetic diversity were assessed based on high-quality SNP data: effective population size (Ne), polymorphic information content (PIC), polymorphic marker ratio (PN), expected heterozygosity (He), observed heterozygosity (Ho), effective number of alleles, and minor allele frequency (MAF). Plink software was employed to compute the IBS genetic distance matrix and detect runs of homozygosity (ROHs), while the G matrix and principal component analysis were performed using GCTA software. Selective sweep analysis was carried out using ROH, Pi, and Tajima’s D methodologies. This study identified a total of 64,734 SNPs, of which 56,522 SNPs remained for downstream analysis after quality control. The population displayed relatively high genetic diversity. The 50 Hu sheep were ultimately grouped into 12 distinct families, with families 6, 8, and 10 having the highest numbers of individuals, each consisting of 6 sheep. Furthermore, a total of 294 ROHs were detected, with the majority having lengths between 1 and 5 Mb, and the inbreeding coefficient FROH was 0.01. In addition, 41, 440, and 994 candidate genes were identified by ROH, Pi, and Tajima’s D methods, respectively, with 3 genes overlapping (BMPR1B, KCNIP4, and FAM13A). These results offer valuable insights for future Hu sheep breeding, genetic assessment, and population management.
Opportunities for Laboratory Testing to Inform Antimicrobial Use for Bovine Respiratory Disease: Application of Information Quality Value Stream Maps in Commercial Feedlots
Authors: Otto Simon J. G. , Pollock Colleen M. , Relf-Eckstein Jo-Anne , McLeod Lianne , Waldner Cheryl L.
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: The implementation of information quality value stream maps (IQ-VSMs) in food animal production systems can increase our understanding of the opportunities and challenges when using laboratory testing for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to support antimicrobial stewardship (AMS). Our objectives were to (1) explore the implementation of information quality value stream mapping as a continuous improvement tool to inform decisions for bovine respiratory disease (BRD) management and AMS and (2) apply the information quality dimensions to identified Kaizen opportunities for the integration of laboratory data into BRD management systems to assess the appropriateness of BRD treatment plans in western Canadian feedlot production. Methods: A ‘Current State’ IQ-VSM outlined the processes, available information, information processing steps, and control decisions contributing to BRD management and treatment in commercial western Canadian feedlots, recognizing that laboratory BRD pathogens and AMR data are typically not part of BRD management. Results: The ‘Future State’ IQ-VSM incorporated Kaizen opportunities for improvement, including (i) the strategic collection of respiratory samples from representative samples of calves for laboratory analysis, regardless of clinical BRD status, (ii) compilation of laboratory data at the pen and feedlot levels, and (iii) analysis of pen- and feedlot-level laboratory data to inform the veterinarian’s assessment of the appropriateness of current BRD treatment plans. Conclusions: The IQ-VSMs provided a valuable framework to visualize the integration of BRD pathogen and AMR laboratory data to support AMS and address any potential future testing requirements.
Insight into Romanian Wild-Grown Heracleum sphondylium: Development of a New Phytocarrier Based on Silver Nanoparticles with Antioxidant, Antimicrobial and Cytotoxicity Potential
Authors: Segneanu Adina-Elena , Vlase Gabriela , Vlase Titus , Bejenaru Ludovic Everard , Mogoşanu George Dan , Buema Gabriela , Herea Dumitru-Daniel , Ciocîlteu Maria Viorica , Bejenaru Cornelia
Published: September 2024

Background: Heracleum sphondylium, a medicinal plant used in Romanian ethnopharmacology, has been proven to have remarkable biological activity. The escalating concerns surrounding antimicrobial resistance led to a special attention being paid to new efficient antimicrobial agents based on medicinal plants and nanotechnology. We report the preparation of a novel, simple phytocarrier that harnesses the bioactive properties of H. sphondylium and silver nanoparticles (HS-Ag system). Methods: H. sphondylium’s low metabolic profile was determined through gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and electrospray ionization–quadrupole time-of-flight–mass spectrometry. The morphostructural properties of the innovative phytocarrier were analyzed by X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using total phenolic content, ferric reducing antioxidant power, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) in vitro assays. The antimicrobial activity screening against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli was conducted using the agar well diffusion method. The 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay estimated the in vitro potential cytotoxicity on normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) and cervical cancer (HeLa) cells. Results: A total of 88 biomolecules were detected, such as terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, coumarins, phenylpropanoids, iridoids, amino acids, phytosterols, fatty acids. The HS-Ag phytocarrier heightened efficacy in suppressing the growth of all tested bacterial strains compared to H. sphondylium and exhibited a significant inhibition of HeLa cell viability. Conclusions: The new HS-Ag phytocarrier system holds promise for a wide range of medical applications. The data confirm the capacity to augment the pertinent theoretical understanding in the innovative field of antimicrobial agents.
Efficacy of Trichoderma spp. and Kosakonia sp. Both Independently and Combined with Fungicides against Botrytis cinerea on Strawberries
Authors: Schierling Tom E. , Vogt Wolfgang , Voegele Ralf T. , El-Hasan Abbas
Published: September 2024

Background: The ascomycete Botrytis cinerea is a major pathogen of strawberry, often causing grey mold and significant yield losses. Its management has largely relied on chemical fungicides, which, while effective, can lead to resistant pathogens and harm to non-target organisms and pose health risks. Objectives: This study explored a strategy for minimizing chemical usage by combining biocontrol agents (BCAs) with half-strength fungicide input. Results: In vitro results of fungicide-amended culture plates indicated that the presence of 625 µg mL−1 Azoxystrobin exhibited no growth inhibition of T. atroviride T19 and T. harzianum T16 but increased conidial density of T16 by 90%. Copper (750 µg mL−1) did not suppress the growth of T. virens TVSC or T16 but rather promoted it by 9.5% and 6%, respectively. Additionally, copper increased T16 sporulation by 1.4-fold. Greenhouse trials demonstrated that combining T23 with half-strength Azoxystrobin was as effective as the full dosage in suppressing flower rot. Among the antagonists assessed, Kosakonia sp. exhibited the lowest incidence of fruit rot, whereas T23 resulted in a moderate incidence. Moreover, the combination of T16 or Kosakonia sp. with half-strength copper was almost as effective as the full dosage in reducing fruit rot. Conclusions: Our findings suggest integrating these BCAs in the sustainable management of grey mold in strawberries.
A Global Call to Action on Antimicrobial Resistance at the UN General Assembly
Authors: Figueras Albert
Published: September 2024

As the United Nations General Assembly prepares to convene its second high-level meeting on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in September 2024, it is crucial to reflect on the progress made since the first meeting in 2016 and the urgent need for immediate action [...]
Phenotypic and Genotypic Profiles of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Multidrug-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae in Northeastern Thailand
Authors: Chaisaeng Sumontha , Phetburom Nattamol , Kasemsiri Pachara , Putthanachote Nuntiput , Wangnadee Naowarut , Boueroy Parichart , Kerdsin Anusak , Chopjitt Peechanika
Published: September 2024

The global emergence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae presents a significant public health threat and complicates antibiotic treatment for infections. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae in a clinical setting, analyze their antimicrobial susceptibility profiles, and characterize both phenotypic and genetic determinants. A total of 507 non-duplicate clinical isolates of Enterobacterales were collected between 2019 and 2020, and third-generation cephalosporin resistance was screened by disk diffusion. Identification of K. pneumoniae was confirmed using biochemical tests and PCR with species-specific primers. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted using disk diffusion, and phenotypic ESBL production was confirmed using the combined disk method. Multiplex PCR detected ESBL genes (blaTEM, blaSHV, and blaCTX-M) and identified blaCTX-M groups. The genetic relatedness of ESBL-producing strains was assessed using the ERIC-PCR approach. Fitty-four isolates were confirmed as ESBL producers, all classified as multidrug-resistant (MDR). All ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae isolates exhibited resistance to ampicillin and cefotaxime, with high resistance rates for ciprofloxacin (98.2%), azithromycin (94.4%), piperacillin–tazobactam (88.9%), and trimethoprim (83.3%). Genotypic analysis revealed blaCTX-M was present in 94.4% of isolates, blaSHV in 87%, and blaTEM in 55.5%. The blaCTX-M-1 group was the most prevalent, accounting for 96.1% of isolates. Co-harboring of blaCTX-M, blaSHV, and blaTEM occurred in 42.6% of isolates, with co-carrying of blaCTX-M, and blaSHV was observed in 23/54 isolates. The ERIC-PCR analysis revealed 15 distinct types, indicating high genetic diversity. These findings highlight the urgent need for ongoing monitoring to control the spread of ESBL among K. pneumoniae and emphasize the importance of early detection and appropriate antibiotic selection for effectively treating infection caused by these pathogens.
Effects of Taurine and Vitamin C on the Improvement of Antioxidant Capacity, Immunity and Hypoxia Tolerance in Gibel Carp (Carrassius auratus gibeilo)
Authors: Zhang Leimin , Zhang Lu , Liang Hualiang , Huang Dongyu , Ren Mingchun
Published: September 2024

To investigate the effects of taurine and vitamin C on gibel carp (Carrassius auratus gibeilo), fish (41.85 ± 0.03 g) were fed three diets with 0% taurine + 0% vitamin C (D0), 0.1% taurine + 0% vitamin C (D1), and 0.1% taurine + 0.1% vitamin C (D2) for 8 weeks. Then 12-hour hypoxic stress test was conducted. The results showed that weight gain rate (WGR), specific growth rate (SGR), and sustained swimming time (SST) were significantly increased in the D2. CAT, SOD, T-AOC, and GSH were increased. GSH-Px and il-6 were decreased in D1 and D2. In hypoxia, CAT and T-AOC were decreased, while GSH, sod, and nrf2 were the highest in D1. Compared to normoxia, GSH-Px was increased, while SOD and MDA were decreased. Il-10 and nf-κb were increased. Vegf, epo, and ho-1 were increased and they all were higher than that in normoxia. The number of gill cell mitochondria and survival rate (SR) of gibel carp had an increasing trend but no significant difference among groups. In conclusion, taurine with vitamin C improved the growth and SST of gibel carp, and taurine and taurine with vitamin C improved antioxidant capacity, immunity, and hypoxia tolerance.