bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-tiered authentication of herbal traditional Chinese medicine ingredients used in women’s health provides progressive qualitative and quantitative insight
Authors: Mück Felicitas , Scotti Francesca , Mauvisseau Quentin , Thorbek Birgitte Lisbeth Graae , Wangensteen Helle , de Boer Hugo J.
Published: February 2024

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbal products are increasingly used in Europe, but prevalent authentication methods have significant gaps in detection. In this study, three authentication methods were tested in a tiered approach to improve accuracy on a collection of 51 TCM plant ingredients obtained on the European market. We show the relative performance of conventional barcoding, metabarcoding and standardized chromatographic profiling for TCM ingredients used in one of the most diagnosed disease patterns in women, endometriosis. DNA barcoding using marker ITS2 and chromatographic profiling are methods of choice reported by regulatory authorities and relevant national pharmacopeias. HPTLC was shown to be a valuable authentication tool, combined with metabarcoding, which gives an increased resolution on species diversity, despite dealing with highly processed herbal ingredients. Conventional DNA barcoding as a recommended method was shown to be an insufficient tool for authentication of these samples, while DNA metabarcoding yields an insight into biological contaminants. We conclude that a tiered identification strategy can provide progressive qualitative and quantitative insight in an integrative approach for quality control of processed herbal ingredients.
Stomatal responses to VPD utilize guard cell intracellular signaling components
Authors: Zait Yotam , Joseph Ariel , Assmann Sarah M.
Published: February 2024

Stomatal pores, vital for CO2 uptake and water loss regulation in plants, are formed by two specialized guard cells. Despite their importance, there is limited understanding of how guard cells sense and respond to changes in vapor pressure difference (VPD). This study leverages a selection of CO2 hyposensitive and abscisic acid (ABA) signaling mutants in Arabidopsis, including heterotrimeric G protein mutants and RLK (receptor-like kinase) mutants, along with a variety of canola cultivars to delve into the intracellular signaling mechanisms prompting stomatal closure in response to high VPD. Stomatal conductance response to step changes in VPD was measured using the LI-6800F gas exchange system. Our findings highlight that stomatal responses to VPD utilize intracellular signaling components. VPD hyposensitivity was particularly evident in mutants of the ht1 (HIGH LEAF TEMPERATURE1) gene, which encodes a protein kinase expressed mainly in guard cells, and in gpa1-3, a null mutant of the sole canonical heterotrimeric Gα subunit, previously implicated in stomatal signaling. Consequently, this research identifies a nexus in the intricate relationships between guard cell signal perception, stomatal conductance, environmental humidity, and CO2 levels.
Genome-wide identification and characterization of TCP gene family in Dendrobium nobile and their role in perianth development
Authors: Wei Xinrui , Yuan Meng , Zheng Bao-Qiang , Zhou Lin , Wang Yan
Published: February 2024

TCP is a widely distributed, essential plant transcription factor that regulates plant growth and development. An in-depth study of TCP genes in Dendrobium nobile, a crucial parent in genetic breeding and an excellent model material to explore perianth development in Dendrobium, has not been conducted. We identified 23 DnTCP genes unevenly distributed across 19 chromosomes and classified them as Class I PCF (12 members), Class II: CIN (10 members), and CYC/TB1 (1 member) based on the conserved domain and phylogenetic analysis. Most DnTCPs in the same subclade had similar gene and motif structures. Segmental duplication was the predominant duplication event for TCP genes, and no tandem duplication was observed. Seven genes in the CIN subclade had potential miR319 and -159 target sites. Cis-acting element analysis showed that most DnTCP genes contained many developmental stress-, light-, and phytohormone-responsive elements in their promoter regions. Distinct expression patterns were observed among the 23 DnTCP genes, suggesting that these genes have diverse regulatory roles at different stages of perianth development or in different organs. For instance, DnTCP4 and DnTCP18 play a role in early perianth development, and DnTCP5 and DnTCP10 are significantly expressed during late perianth development. DnTCP17, 20, 21, and 22 are the most likely to be involved in perianth and leaf development. DnTCP11 was significantly expressed in the gynandrium. Specially, MADS-specific binding sites were present in most DnTCP genes putative promoters, and two Class I DnTCPs were in the nucleus and interacted with each other or with the MADS-box. The interactions between TCP and the MADS-box have been described for the first time in orchids, which broadens our understanding of the regulatory network of TCP involved in perianth development in orchids.
One down, fifty to go: managers’ perceptions of their workload and how they cope with it to maintain their psychological health
Authors: Boucher Frédéric , Dextras-Gauthier Julie , Gilbert Marie-Hélène , Fournier Pierre-Sebastien , Dima Justine
Published: February 2024

Background

Like many other countries, healthcare services in Canada face numerous organizational changes with the main objective of doing more with less. The approach taken within different healthcare networks has brought about a reform in healthcare facilities in Quebec, leading to several mergers and eliminating over 1,000 managerial positions. As a result, this has placed a progressively heavier workload on the shoulders of the remaining managers. Research on mental health in the workplace has mainly focused with the workforce and generally neglects managers. However, studies have shown that workload is a risk factor for managers. Therefore, the objectives of our study are to (1) better understand the elements that make up a manager’s workload and the factors that influence it and (2) identify the coping strategies used by managers to deal with their workloads.

Methods

Employing a qualitative approach, we analyzed 61 semistructured interviews through an abductive method, utilizing diverse frameworks for data analysis. The participants came from the same Quebec healthcare establishment.

Results

Our findings align with the notion that workload is a multifaceted phenomenon that warrants a holistic analysis. The workload mapping framework we propose for healthcare network managers enables pinpointing those factors that contribute to the burden of their workload. Ultimately, this workload can detrimentally impact the psychological wellbeing of employees.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study takes a comprehensive look at workload by using a holistic approach, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of this phenomenon. It also allows for the identification of coping strategies used by managers to deal with their workloads. Finally, our results can provide valuable guidance for the interventions aimed at addressing workload issues among healthcare network managers in Quebec by utilizing the specific elements we have identified.
The distance between the religious values of parents and those of children in Israel
Authors: Luria Ela
Published: February 2024

Prior research into the socialization of religious values between religious parents and their children indicates that, in homogeneous religious family groups, there are similarities between the religious values of religious parents and those of their children. Research further shows that, in religious-secular heterogeneous family groups, there is a significant distance between the religious parent and their teenagers in terms of religious values. The purpose of this study is to explore the transmission of religious values in homogeneous Modern-Orthodox family groups and in heterogeneous Modern-Orthodox-secular family groups in Israel. Results of the study show that religious distance in values is not dependent on the family type (homogeneous/heterogeneous). However, it appears that, when the transmitter of religious values is a religious parent in both homogeneous and heterogeneous religious and religious-secular family groups, there is a distance in the socialization of religious values between religious parent and their children. Moreover, the study proposes that the effect sizes are smaller in the parent-child religious distance of values in homogeneous Modern-Orthodox family groups in comparison to the parent child religious distance of values in heterogeneous Modern-Orthodox-secular family groups. This study provides support for recent research, suggesting that the transmission of religiosity from parents to their children might function as a mechanism of secularization.
Neuronal correlates of intensification and acceptance of symptoms during exposure therapy in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder
Authors: Karch Susanne , Maywald Maximilian , Schwartz Caroline , Heil Clara , Neumüller Jakob , Keeser Daniel , Garcia Sarah , Tschentscher Nadja , Pogarell Oliver , Paolini Marco , Voderholzer Ulrich
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Cognitive behaviour therapy with exposure and response prevention is efficient in treating patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Nevertheless, it would be helpful for many patients to complement the therapeutic treatment with acceptance strategies to further increase the therapeutic benefit. The aim of the present study was to examine neurobiological responses to acceptance and intensification strategies during symptom provocation alongside the psychotherapeutic process.

Method

A total of 23 patients diagnosed with OCD (subtype: washing/contamination fear) was instructed to utilise either an acceptance strategy (ACS) or an intensification strategy (INS) to cope with their emotional and cognitive reactions to personalised symptom-triggering and neutral pictures. Fourteen patients participated twice: at the beginning [T1] and at the end [T2] of an inpatient multimodal treatment including cognitive behaviour therapy with response prevention to assess functional variations.

Results

For the contrast of T1 and T2, ACS showed increased brain activity in the left inferior frontal gyrus (IFG), left caudate body, and posterior cingulate gyrus (PCC). They also showed decreased activity in the left anterior insula. INS showed decreased activation in right lingual gyrus and right caudate body. At T2, ACS showed increased activation compared to INS in the left cerebrum: IFG, caudate nucleus, middle and superior temporal gyrus, and PCC/cuneus. For the comparison of T1 and T2, the ACS revealed increased brain activity in the left IFG, left caudate body, and right inferior parietal lobe. It showed decreased activity in the left anterior insula. The INS revealed decreased activity in right lingual gyrus and right caudate body.

The psychometric questionnaires suggested that patients were able to reduce obsession, compulsion, and depression symptoms. Furthermore, patients rated the ACS as more useful for themselves compared with the INS.

Conclusion

The increased left IFG activity using ACS (T1 vs. T2) could be interpreted as a better inhibitory top-down process, while the increased PCC response might be due to a better reappraisal strategy after therapy. ACS seems to mobilise neuronal activations under therapy, especially in the left hemisphere. Both strategies showed reductions in emotional networks as a neuronal correlate of therapy success. Overall, ACS may be more efficient than INS, as rated by the patients and as in accordance with neurobiological findings.
Maternal autistic traits and anxiety in children with typical development in Chinese families: a moderated mediation model of mothers’ negative emotional expressions and child gender
Authors: Gu Jiyou , Li Tiantian , Dong Huiqin
Published: February 2024

Background

Prior studies have focused on the effects of maternal autistic traits on children with autism, but little attention has been paid to the effects of maternal autistic traits on typically developing children, while the mechanisms of the effects are not clear.

Objective

Given that, a moderated mediation model was conducted to examine the association between maternal autistic traits and typically developing children’s anxiety and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods and results

Participants were 648 mother–child dyads in which these children had no autistic siblings. Mothers reported their autistic traits and negative emotional expressions in the family and children’s anxiety. The results indicated that children’s anxiety was predicted by maternal autistic traits. Mediating analysis revealed that mothers’ negative emotional expressions partially mediated the association between their autistic traits and children’s anxiety. The findings also indicated that child gender moderated the relationship between maternal emotional expressions and children’s anxiety. Specifically, anxiety in girls was more strongly predicted by negative emotional expressions from their mothers than in boys.

Conclusion

These results have important theoretical and practical implications for reducing the adverse effect of maternal autistic traits on children’s anxiety, especially for girls. The present study also reveals that maternal negative emotional expression is an important mechanism. Causal conclusions cannot be drawn based on cross-sectional research design, so it is necessary to conduct longitudinal studies in the future.
Effect of empowerment: how and when do high-involvement work practices influence elder employees’ innovative performance?
Authors: Jiang Daokui , Zhang Yiting , Zhu Honghong , Wang Xiaoyu
Published: February 2024

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced business environment, innovation from elder employees is increasingly vital to organizations. High-involvement work practices that emphasize engagement and empowerment have a significant impact on the innovation performance of these employees, harnessing their wealth of experience and fostering organizational growth. However, most of the current research on innovation performance focuses on the single factor of the individual or the organization, and most of them focus on the linear relationship; research on the factor of human resource practices, in particular high-involvement work practices, is inadequate.

Methods

Based on social exchange theory, this paper uses structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine the impact of high-involvement work practices on elder workers’ innovation performance using 278 valid samples from three time points, and the non-linear effects of exploratory and exploitative innovation on elder workers’ innovation performance.

Results

(1) There is no significant relationship between high-involvement work practices and elder employees’ innovation performance. (2) Exploratory innovation has a significant U-shaped relationship with innovation performance, i.e., as the level of exploratory innovation increases, the innovation performance of elder employees first decreases and then increases. There is a significant inverted U-shaped relationship between exploitative innovation and innovation performance, i.e., as the level of exploitative innovation increases, innovation performance first increases and then decreases. High-involvement work practices have a U-shaped effect on elder employees’ innovation performance through exploitative innovation. (3) Transformational leadership moderates the direct effects of high-involvement on exploratory innovation and elder employees’ innovation performance, and transformational leadership moderates the U-shaped effect of high-involvement work practices on elder employees’ innovation performance through exploratory innovation.

Discussion

The conclusion is helpful for organizations to enhance elder employees’ innovation performance by enriching high-involvement work practices.
Effects of linguistic context and noise type on speech comprehension
Authors: Fitzgerald Laura P. , DeDe Gayle , Shen Jing
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Understanding speech in background noise is an effortful endeavor. When acoustic challenges arise, linguistic context may help us fill in perceptual gaps. However, more knowledge is needed regarding how different types of background noise affect our ability to construct meaning from perceptually complex speech input. Additionally, there is limited evidence regarding whether perceptual complexity (e.g., informational masking) and linguistic complexity (e.g., occurrence of contextually incongruous words) interact during processing of speech material that is longer and more complex than a single sentence. Our first research objective was to determine whether comprehension of spoken sentence pairs is impacted by the informational masking from a speech masker. Our second objective was to identify whether there is an interaction between perceptual and linguistic complexity during speech processing.

Methods

We used multiple measures including comprehension accuracy, reaction time, and processing effort (as indicated by task-evoked pupil response), making comparisons across three different levels of linguistic complexity in two different noise conditions. Context conditions varied by final word, with each sentence pair ending with an expected exemplar (EE), within-category violation (WV), or between-category violation (BV). Forty young adults with typical hearing performed a speech comprehension in noise task over three visits. Each participant heard sentence pairs presented in either multi-talker babble or spectrally shaped steady-state noise (SSN), with the same noise condition across all three visits.

Results

We observed an effect of context but not noise on accuracy. Further, we observed an interaction of noise and context in peak pupil dilation data. Specifically, the context effect was modulated by noise type: context facilitated processing only in the more perceptually complex babble noise condition.

Discussion

These findings suggest that when perceptual complexity arises, listeners make use of the linguistic context to facilitate comprehension of speech obscured by background noise. Our results extend existing accounts of speech processing in noise by demonstrating how perceptual and linguistic complexity affect our ability to engage in higher-level processes, such as construction of meaning from speech segments that are longer than a single sentence.
Effects of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation and exploration of brain network mechanisms in children with high−functioning autism spectrum disorder: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sun Ke , Li Ying , Zhai Zhenhang , Yin Heqing , Liang Shuli , Zhai Feng , Cui Yonghua , Zhang Guojun
Published: February 2024

Background

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are a collection of neurodevelopmental diseases characterized by poor social interaction and communication, a limited range of interests, and stereotyped behavior. High-functioning autism (HFA) indicates a subgroup of individuals with autism who possess cognitive and/or language skills that are within the average to above-normal range for their age. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) holds promise in children with HFA. However, few studies have used randomized controlled trials to validate the effectiveness of taVNS. Therefore, in this study, we intend to provide a study protocol to examine the therapeutic effects of taVNS in individuals diagnosed with HFA and to investigate the process of brain network remodeling in individuals with ASD using functional imaging techniques to observe alterations in large-scale neural networks.

Methods and design

We planned to employ a randomized, double-blind experimental design, including 40 children receiving sham stimulation and 40 children receiving real stimulation. We will assess clinical scales and perform functional imaging examinations before and after the stimulation. Additionally, we will include age- and gender-matched healthy children as controls and conduct functional imaging examinations. We plan first to observe the therapeutic effects of taVNS. Furthermore, we will observe the impact of taVNS stimulation on the brain network.

Discussion

taVNS was a low-risk, easy-to-administer, low-cost, and portable option to modulate the vagus system. taVNS may improve the social performance of HFA. Changes in the network properties of the large-scale brain network may be related to the efficacy of taVNS.

Clinical trial registration

http://www.chictr.org.cn, identifier ChiCTR2300074035.
Neighborhood-level sleep health and childhood opportunities
Authors: Gorovoy Suzanne , Phan Sydney , Begay Tommy K. , Valencia Dora , Hale Lauren , Robbins Rebecca , Killgore William D. S. , Williamson Ariel A. , Grandner Michael
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Regional sleep differences may reflect other important indicators of health and well-being. Examining sleep health at the regional level can help inform policies to improve population health. We examined the relationship between neighborhood-level adult sleep health (modeled in this study via adult sleep duration) and other health metrics and multiple indicators of child-relevant opportunity.

Methods

Data were obtained from the “500 Cities” data collected by the CDC, including the proportion of the adult population in each tract that report obtaining at least 7 h of sleep. The Child Opportunity Index (COI) provides indices for “education,” “health and environment,” and “social and economic” domains, as well as a global score. When data were merged, 27,130 census tracts were included. Linear regression analyses examined COI associated with the proportion of the adult population obtaining 7 h of sleep.

Results

Adult sleep duration was associated with global COI, such that for each additional percent of the population that obtains ≥ 7 h of sleep, COI increases by 3.6 points (95%CI[3.57, 3.64]). Each component of COI was separately related to adult sleep duration. All associations were attenuated but significant in adjusted analyses. In stepwise analyses, sleep health via adult sleep duration emerged as the strongest correlate of global COI, accounting for 57.2% of the variance (p < 0.0001). Similarly, when stepwise analyses examined each component of COI as dependent variable, sleep health consistently emerged as the most substantial correlate (all p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Community levels of sufficient sleep are associated with greater childhood opportunities, which itself is robustly associated with a wide range of health and economic outcomes. Future work can examine whether this association can develop into scalable interventions.
Urban environment influences on stress, autonomic reactivity and circadian rhythm: protocol for an ambulatory study of mental health and sleep
Authors: Montanari Andrea , Wang Limin , Birenboim Amit , Chaix Basile
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Converging evidence suggests that urban living is associated with an increased likelihood of developing mental health and sleep problems. Although these aspects have been investigated in separate streams of research, stress, autonomic reactivity and circadian misalignment can be hypothesized to play a prominent role in the causal pathways underlining the complex relationship between the urban environment and these two health dimensions. This study aims at quantifying the momentary impact of environmental stressors on increased autonomic reactivity and circadian rhythm, and thereby on mood and anxiety symptoms and sleep quality in the context of everyday urban living.

Method

The present article reports the protocol for a feasibility study that aims at assessing the daily environmental and mobility exposures of 40 participants from the urban area of Jerusalem over 7 days. Every participant will carry a set of wearable sensors while being tracked through space and time with GPS receivers. Skin conductance and heart rate variability will be tracked to monitor participants' stress responses and autonomic reactivity, whereas electroencephalographic signal will be used for sleep quality tracking. Light exposure, actigraphy and skin temperature will be used for ambulatory circadian monitoring. Geographically explicit ecological momentary assessment (GEMA) will be used to assess participants' perception of the environment, mood and anxiety symptoms, sleep quality and vitality. For each outcome variable (sleep quality and mental health), hierarchical mixed models including random effects at the individual level will be used. In a separate analysis, to control for potential unobserved individual-level confounders, a fixed effect at the individual level will be specified for case-crossover analyses (comparing each participant to oneself).

Conclusion

Recent developments in wearable sensing methods, as employed in our study or with even more advanced methods reviewed in the Discussion, make it possible to gather information on the functioning of neuro-endocrine and circadian systems in a real-world context as a way to investigate the complex interactions between environmental exposures, behavior and health. Our work aims to provide evidence on the health effects of urban stressors and circadian disruptors to inspire potential interventions, municipal policies and urban planning schemes aimed at addressing those factors.
Prevalence of smoking habits, attitudes and knowledge on counteractive strategies among a sample of healthcare employees: results of the smoking-free health environments project in the province of Palermo, Italy
Authors: Costantino Claudio , Bonaccorso Nicole , Minutolo Giuseppa , Sciortino Martina , Ripoli Giovanna , Berardi Marco , Gallo Maurizio , Nastasi Stefania , Serra Stefano , Trapani Elisa , Busalacchi Eugenio , Ficano Provvidenza , Siciliano Salvatore , Immordino Palmira , Mazzucco Walter , Restivo Vincenzo , Vitale Francesco , Casuccio Alessandra
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Tobacco use is responsible for over 7 million deaths annually, making smoking the leading cause of preventable mortality globally. Over the last two decades in Italy, the prevalence of smoking among physicians has consistently decreased, while it remains higher and is gradually decreasing among non-physician healthcare workers. The aim of this study was to investigate the Prevalence of smoking habits, attitudes, and knowledge on counteractive strategies among employees in the Primary Healthcare Facilities in the Province of Palermo, Italy.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted between June 2020 and December 2020 through a previously validated anonymous questionnaire structured in four sections including 34 items. Data were analyzed using Stata/MP 12.1 statistical software.

Results

Overall, 2,645 participants answered the questionnaire. The prevalence of either current or former smokers was 18.6%. Based on the multivariable analysis conducted, a significantly higher frequency of current smokers was observed among male participants (AdjOR: 1.29; CI95%: 1.02–1.64) and those belonging to the Surgical Unit (AdjOR: 1.92; CI95%: 1.27–2.90). Conversely, the prevalence of current smokers was significantly lower among those with at least one child (AdjOR: 0.67; CI95%: 0.49–0.91), with an educational qualification equal to or greater than a graduation degree (AdjOR: 0.56; CI95%: 0.43–0.73), those who considered second-hand smoke harmful (AdjOR: 0.06; CI95%: 0.008–0.60), those who had observed smoking or detected the smell of smoke in their workplace (AdjOR: 0.64; CI95%: 0.45–0.91). Furthermore, the prevalence of current smokers was significantly lower among participants who believed that healthcare professionals could play a crucial role in influencing their patients’ lifestyles (AdjOR: 0.67; CI95%: 0.50–0.90) and among those who recommend their patients to quit smoking (AdjOR: 0.35; CI95%: 0.24–0.51).

Discussion

The results of the current research demonstrate that, despite the decline in smoking prevalence among physicians, the rate of smokers among healthcare facility employees remains unacceptably high. This underscores the need to re-evaluate current anti-tobacco strategies in the workplace.
Tracking IUCN extinction risk at sub-regional scale: lessons from comparing Italian Red List assessments for cartilaginous species within a decade (2013–2022)
Authors: Scacco Umberto , Battistoni Alessia , Garibaldi Fulvio , Raicevich Saša , Rondinini Carlo , Serena Fabrizio , Tunesi Leonardo , Vacchi Marino , Fortibuoni Tomaso
Published: February 2024

This brief research report presents the 2022 updated IUCN Red List for the cartilaginous fish fauna (76 species) recorded in the Italian seas and compares it with the 2013 assessment. Overall, the number of Data Deficient (DD) species decreased in favor of both threatened and unthreatened categories. Out of five DD species in the 2013 assessment, three acquired the status of threatened species (Vulnerable or higher) and two an unthreatened (Least Concern or higher) status in the 2022 assessment. Additionally, the classification for one species changed from Least Concern in 2013 to DD in 2022. The comparison between assessments showed no significant change in the average extinction risk status of cartilaginous fish populations of the Italian seas. Even though 2013-DD species decreased in number, the latter still remains high in the updated Italian IUCN Red List assessment.
Analysis of vacuum negative pressure therapy and traditional Chinese medicine lavage in combination with tadalafil for vascular erectile dysfunction
Authors: Liang Ke , Ke Zunjin , Huang Jianhong , Fei Xiang , Qi Liang , Wang Jie
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the clinical effects of the novel Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) topical wash used in combination with negative pressure irrigation and tadalafil for the treatment of vascular erectile dysfunction. Eighty-seven patients with vascular erectile dysfunction were divided into an observation group and a control group. The observation group was administered negative pressure irrigation (TCM) in combination with oral tadalafil for four weeks, and the control group was administered oral tadalafil for four weeks. The observation group included 21 patients with arterial erectile dysfunction and 22 with intravenous erectile dysfunction. After treatment, IIEF-5, EHS, GAD scores, PSV, EDV and RI in observation group were improved compared with those before treatment (P = 0.000, 0.000, 0.000, L0.000/R0.000, L0.000/R0.000, L0.003/R0.000). Erectile function (IIEF-5, EHS) was significantly improved compared with the control group (P = 0.008, 0.002). In the observation group, there were 21 cases of arterial erectile dysfunction and 22 cases of intravenous erectile dysfunction. After treatment, PSV of arterial ED improved significantly (P = L0.000/R0.000), but EDV did not decrease significantly (P = L0.084/R 0.098). In patients with venous ED, PSV increased (P = L0.026/R0.032) and EDV decreased significantly (P = L0.000/R0.000). These findings suggest that TCM negative pressure lavage combined with tadalafil improves the blood supply of the penile artery, relaxes smooth muscle, and improves the closing mechanism of venous vessels in patients with vascular erectile dysfunction, ultimately improving the erectile function.
Secrets Beneath Your Feet—The Fascinating World of Scientific Drilling
Authors: Blanke Aglaja , Harms Ulrich
Published: February 2024

Why do scientists drill into the Earth? Drilling is a valuable tool to unravel secrets of the planet’s history because lots of information is safely stored deep below our feet within the Earth. By taking samples from deep in the Earth and performing laboratory tests on them, scientists find rock materials, water, bacteria, and fossils that can help to unravel mysteries of life and the environment over millions of years. Drilling is also important for finding sustainable new resources, such as geothermal heat, which can be used to produce energy for our homes. Drilling can also help us understand and protect our planet. Another important reason for drilling is to install specific instruments deep in the Earth, to monitor Earth’s movements. These instruments help us to better understand natural disasters like earthquakes or volcanic eruptions and can enhance the safety of billions of people worldwide.
Post-harvest cold shock treatment enhanced antioxidant capacity to reduce chilling injury and improves the shelf life of guava (Psidium guajava L.)
Authors: Zhang Yan
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the impact of storage temperature and cold shock treatment (CST) on the postharvest quality and shelf life of guava fruits. Guavas were stored at varying temperatures (4°C, 6°C, 8°C, and 10°C) for 25 days to evaluate the incidence of chilling injury (CI) and determine optimal storage conditions. Results indicated that the best storage temperature was 6°C, which effectively maintained fruit quality by inhibiting CI, controlling weight loss, and preserving soluble solid content and soluble sugars. Further analysis on the effect of CST on guavas showed that longer cold shock durations (6, 9, and 12 h) before storage at a constant 4°C improved the storage quality and shelf life significantly by decreasing the CI rates, reducing weight loss, maintaining firmness, and improving the fruit’s nutritional quality. Notably, a 12-h CST yielded the best outcomes, evidenced by the lowest malondialdehyde (MDA) content and the highest increases in proline and soluble protein content - biomarkers of enhanced cold tolerance and reduced CI. Additionally, CST was found to modulate the reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism, increasing the activity levels of key antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX), alongside higher contents of ascorbic acid. The study identified a correlation between the length of cold shock and improved antioxidant capacity, crucial for extending guava’s shelf life and preserving quality during cold storage. These findings have significant implications for the postharvest management of guava, recommending 6°C storage and 12-h CST as effective strategies for extending shelf life and ensuring quality in cold storage settings.
In light of the new legislation for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, can continued food sustainability be achieved?
Authors: Senovilla-Herrero Diana , Moore Heather , Service Matthew , Thomas Ray , Helyar Sarah , Mbadugha Lenka , Campbell Katrina
Published: February 2024

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of persistent organic pollutants which pose significant risks to human health and the environment. This article comprehensively examines the implications of new legislation concerning PFAS for food sustainability. The current legislative frameworks governing PFAS in food production and distribution are explored, highlighting the need for robust mitigation strategies to safeguard food safety and environmental integrity. It delves into the challenges posed by the legislation, raising questions about the balance between environmental protection and the sustainability of the food system. It provides a review of the state-of-the-art analytical methods for PFAS detection and quantification in water and food matrices. Their advantages and limitations are discussed, offering valuable insights for researchers in the field. In addition, a range of mitigation strategies to combat PFAS contamination in the food supply chain are explored. By collating current knowledge on PFAS contamination in sustainable food systems, this article aims to provide a comprehensive resource for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners striving to ensure the safety and sustainability of our global food supply. The integration of legislative insights, advanced analytical techniques, and practical mitigation approaches offers a holistic perspective on managing PFAS-related challenges in the context of sustainable food systems.
Evaluation of Cropland Utilization Eco-Efficiency and Influencing Factors in Primary Grain-Producing Regions of China
Authors: Li Jie , Sun Zhengchuan , Gao Qin , Qi Yanbin
Published: February 2024

Under the backdrop of the “double-carbon” target, the primary grain-producing regions in China are confronted with the tasks of mitigating pollution and carbon emissions and ensuring food security. This paper explores the eco-efficiency of cropland utilization and the factors influencing the primary grain-producing regions in China, utilizing panel data from 13 provinces spanning the period from 2000 to 2019. The analysis employs three models: the super-efficiency SBM model, the Malmquist index model, and the random-effect panel Tobit model. The findings suggest the following: (1) Although the eco-efficiency of cropland utilization in China’s primary grain-producing regions did not reach the production frontier during the period of 2000–2019, it exhibited a high level with an overall upward trend. The limiting factor inhibiting the growth of total factor productivity is lower technical efficiency. (2) There is evident spatial variation in the eco-efficiency of cropland utilization across China, displaying a dynamic evolution from northeast > western > central > eastern to northeast > western > eastern > central. Total factor productivity in each province demonstrates an upward trend, with the east > northeast > west > central ranking. (3) Regarding the influencing factors, the utilization of agricultural production chemicals exerts a negative influence, while the proportion of government financial input, labor input, and irrigation index have a positive impact.
Effect of Salicylic Acid and Calcium on Growth, Yield, and Fruit Quality of Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) Grown Hydroponically
Authors: Sobczak Anna , Pióro-Jabrucka Ewelina , Gajc-Wolska Janina , Kowalczyk Katarzyna
Published: February 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of spraying plants with 0.03% salicylic acid (SA), 0.7% calcium nitrate (Ca), and 0.03% salicylic acid together with 0.7% calcium nitrate (SA + Ca) on plant growth, yield, and fruit quality of peppers grown in a mineral wool substrate. The control plants were sprayed with water (C). Two red-fruited sweet pepper cultivars were used in the study: ‘Aifos’, and ‘Palermo’, which produce fruits characterized by different shapes. Biometric measurements of the plants showed a higher growth rate of pepper plants when SA and Ca were applied foliarly compared to the control. Plants treated simultaneously with SA and Ca were characterized by the highest steady-state fluorescence yield [Fs]. The relative chlorophyll content of pepper leaves was also higher in plants sprayed with SA, Ca, and SA + Ca than in plants in the control. The analysis of pepper yield showed in both cultivars the effect of foliar treatment of plants with SA and Ca and SA + Ca on increasing pepper resistance to the occurrence of Ca deficiency on pepper fruit (Blossom end rot). Pepper fruits harvested from plants treated with SA, Ca, and SA + Ca had more juicy flesh.
Study on Diversity of Poisonous Weeds in Grassland of the Ili Region in Xinjiang
Authors: Wang Sen , Cheng Wenliang , Tan Haiyan , Guo Baoliang , Han Xiaoqiang , Wu Cailan , Yang Desong
Published: February 2024

The frequent occurrence of poisonous grassland weed disasters has weakened the stability of the grassland ecosystem in the Ili region of Xinjiang, and its spread has seriously affected the development of grassland animal husbandry. However, there is no relevant literature to report the species and distribution of poisonous grassland weeds in the Ili region. In this study, investigation was carried out using methods such as personal inspection and sampling methods, and importance-value and diversity analyses were conducted. The results showed that there were 126 species of poisonous weeds in the Ili region, belonging to 91 genera and 28 families. The poisonous weeds of Compositae and Leguminosae accounted for 33.3%. The Shannon–Wiener diversity index of the poisonous weed population was 3.99, the richness of the poisonous weed population was high, and the distribution range was uniform. The Simpson diversity index of poisonous weeds population was 0.97, and the highest importance value of poisonous weeds was Urtica cannabina L., with an importance value of 11.50. The evenness index of the poisonous weed population was 0.83; the spatial distribution pattern of the poisonous weed population tended to aggregate distribution. This study lays a foundation for the control of poisonous weeds and the sustainable development of grasslands in the Ili region of Xinjiang.
Improved Method for Extracting Nitrites in Soil
Authors: Song Yaqi , Wu Dianming , Dörsch Peter , Yue Lanting , Deng Lingling , Liao Chengsong , Sha Zhimin , Dong Wenxu , Yu Yuanchun
Published: February 2024

Soil nitrite (NO2−) is an important reactive intermediate in many nitrogen transformation processes, but it is unstable under acidic conditions and may be lost as gaseous N. The canonical extraction method of soil NO2− using a potassium chloride (KCl) solution greatly underestimates its concentration. To reflect the concentration more accurately, we optimized the extraction method of soil NO2− for three agricultural soils differing in soil texture and pH, an alkalic fluvo-aquic soil and acidic Mollisol and Ultisol soils, respectively. Both extractable soil ammonium (NH4+) and nitrate (NO3−) were systematically investigated to optimize the simultaneous extraction of soil inorganic nitrogen. The effects of different extractants (deionized water (DIW), un-buffered 2 mol L−1 KCl, and pH-buffered 2 mol L−1 KCl), shaking time (10 and 30 min), and storage duration of the extracts (stored at −20 °C for 1 day, and at 4 °C for 1, 3, and 6 days) on the determination of soil inorganic nitrogen were investigated. The results showed that the un-buffered KCl extractant significantly underestimated soil NO2− concentration compared to DIW. The highest recovery of NO2− was obtained by extracting with DIW at 10 min of shaking for all three soils. Compared with DIW, the concentration of NH4+ and NO3− in soil extracted from the KCl solution increased significantly. Furthermore, the soil inorganic nitrogen content of extracts stored at 4 °C for one day was closer to the direct measurements of fresh samples than with the other storage methods. Overall, the recommended analysis method for soil NO2− was extraction by DIW, shaking for 10 min, and filtering with a 0.45 µm filter, while soil NH4+ and NO3− were extracted with a KCl solution and shaken for 30 min. The extract should be stored at 4 °C and analyzed within 24 h. Our study provides an efficient extraction method for soil NO2− and supports studies on the biogeochemical nitrogen cycle, e.g., in the investigation of soil nitrous acid (HONO) and nitric oxide (NO) emissions.
Flight toward Sustainability in Poultry Nutrition with Black Soldier Fly Larvae
Authors: Salahuddin Md , Abdel-Wareth Ahmed A. A. , Hiramatsu Kohzy , Tomberlin Jeffery K. , Luza Daylan , Lohakare Jayant
Published: February 2024

Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), Hermetia illucens (L.) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae), have emerged as a promising feed ingredient in broiler chicken diets, known for their high protein content, nutritional richness, and environmental sustainability. This review examines the effects of integrating BSFL into broiler feeds, focusing on aspects such as growth performance, nutrient digestibility, physiological responses, and immune health. The ability of BSFL to transform waste into valuable biomass rich in proteins and lipids underscores their efficiency and ecological benefits. Protein levels in BSFL can range from 32% to 53%, varying with growth stage and diet, offering a robust source of amino acids essential for muscle development and growth in broilers. While the chitin in BSFL poses questions regarding digestibility, the overall impact on nutrient utilization is generally favorable. The inclusion of BSFL in diets has been shown to enhance growth rates, feed efficiency, and carcass quality in broilers, with the larvae’s balanced amino acid profile being particularly advantageous for muscle development. BSFL may also support gut health and immunity in broilers due to its bioactive components, potentially influencing the gut’s microbial composition and enhancing nutrient absorption and overall health. Moreover, the capacity of BSFL to efficiently convert organic waste into protein highlights their role as an environmentally sustainable protein source for broiler nutrition. Nonetheless, further research is necessary to fully understand the long-term effects of BSFL, ideal inclusion rates, and the impact of varying larval diets and rearing conditions. It is crucial for poultry producers to consult nutritionists and comply with local regulations when incorporating new feed ingredients like BSFL into poultry diets.
Hypothalamic Neuromodulation of Hypothermia in Domestic Animals
Authors: Mota-Rojas Daniel , Ghezzi Marcelo Daniel , Hernández-Ávalos Ismael , Domínguez-Oliva Adriana , Casas-Alvarado Alejandro , Lendez Pamela Anahí , Ceriani María Carolina , Wang Dehua
Published: February 2024

When an organism detects decreases in their core body temperature, the hypothalamus, the main thermoregulatory center, triggers compensatory responses. These responses include vasomotor changes to prevent heat loss and physiological mechanisms (e.g., shivering and non-shivering thermogenesis) for heat production. Both types of changes require the participation of peripheral thermoreceptors, afferent signaling to the spinal cord and hypothalamus, and efferent pathways to motor and/or sympathetic neurons. The present review aims to analyze the scientific evidence of the hypothalamic control of hypothermia and the central and peripheral changes that are triggered in domestic animals.
Evaluation of Claw Lesions in Beef Cattle Slaughtered in Northern Portugal: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Seixas Mafalda , Moura Dina , Grispoldi Luca , Cenci-Goga Beniamino , Saraiva Sónia , Silva Filipe , Pires Isabel , Saraiva Cristina , García-Díez Juan
Published: February 2024

Claw diseases have a profound impact on cattle welfare, affecting behaviors such as grazing, rumination, rest, decubitus, and water consumption. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of claw lesions and classify them according to the ICAR Claw Health Atlas (International Committee of Animal Recording) in two slaughterhouses. The influence of claw lesions on carcass weight, classification, and fat deposition was also examined. Involving 343 crossbreed cattle from 103 different extensive or semi-intensive farms, this study found an animal prevalence of claw disorders at 65.8%, with a higher incidence in females (n = 207, 60.35%) compared to males (n = 136, 39.65%). Despite the observed prevalence, claw lesions were not influenced by age or sex (p > 0.05). The main claw lesions identified, including heel horn erosion, double sole, and asymmetric claw, were consistent with the cattle management practices in the study area. These cattle were raised in small, rustic premises with uneven floors, utilizing a mix of manure and plant material as bedding and lacking access to pasture. Also, no negative economic impact was detected concerning carcass weight, classification, or fat deposition. Consequently, it was concluded that the presence of claw lesions in beef cattle raised under the characteristic management of this geographical area does not adversely affect animal health or farm economics.