bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Applying an internal transcribed spacer as a single molecular marker to differentiate between Tetraselmis and Chlorella species
Authors: Fathy Wael A. , Techen Natascha , Elsayed Khaled N. M. , Essawy Ehab A. , Tawfik Eman , Alwutayd Khairiah Mubarak , Abdelhameed Mohamed S. , Hammouda Ola , Ross Samir A.
Published: August 2023

In the realm of applied phycology, algal physiology, and biochemistry publications, the absence of proper identification and documentation of microalgae is a common concern. This poses a significant challenge for non-specialists who struggle to identify numerous eukaryotic microalgae. However, a promising solution lies in employing an appropriate DNA barcoding technique and establishing comprehensive databases of reference sequences. To address this issue, we conducted a study focusing on the molecular characterization and strain identification of Tetraselmis and Chlorella species, utilizing the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) barcode approach. By analyzing the full nuclear ITS region through the Sanger sequencing approach, we obtained ITS barcodes that were subsequently compared with other ITS sequences of various Tetraselmis and Chlorella species. To ensure the reliability of our identification procedure, we conducted a meticulous comparison of the DNA alignment, constructed a phylogenetic tree, and determined the percentage of identical nucleotides. The findings of our study reveal the significant value of the ITS genomic region as a tool for distinguishing and identifying morphologically similar chlorophyta. Moreover, our results demonstrate that both the ITS1 and ITS2 regions are capable of effectively discriminating isolates from one another; however, ITS2 is preferred due to its greater intraspecific variation. These results underscore the indispensability of employing ITS barcoding in microalgae identification, highlighting the limitations of relying solely on morphological characterization.
Age and sex differences in the association between APOE genotype and Alzheimer’s disease in a Taiwan Chinese population
Authors: Huang Ling-Chun , Lee Mei-Yueh , Chien Ching-Fang , Chang Yang-Pei , Li Kuan-Ying , Yang Yuan-Han
Published: August 2023

Introduction

The Apolipoprotein E (APOE) epsilon (ε) 4 allele is a well-established risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Reports on white ancestry populations have showed that age, sex, and ethnicity have different effects on the association between APOE genotype and AD. However, studies on Asian populations such as Taiwan Chinese populations are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the association between APOE genotype and AD in a Taiwan Chinese population, and to explore if the association varies by age and sex.

Methods

We conducted a case-control study in 725 patients with AD and 1,067 age- and sex- matched controls without dementia from a Taiwan Chinese population. Logistic regression models were used to test the association between AD and APOE genotypes. Secondary analyses considered age (<75 or ≥75 years old), and sex stratified models.

Results

The risk of AD was significantly increased for people with at least one copy of APOE ε4 (OR = 2.52, 95% CI = 2.01–3.17, p < 0.001) and in a dose-dependent manner. Our results did not show an statistically significance different in AD risk when women and men carrying APOEε4 were compared. Despite not reaching statistical significance, the risk of APOE ε4 for AD was higher among younger participants (OR = 3.21, 95% CI = 2.26–4.56, p < 0.001) compared to older ones (OR = 2.13, 95% CI = 1.53–2.97, p < 0.001). When considering both sex and age, the risk of AD was higher among older men carrying APOE ε4 (OR = 2.64, 95% CI = 1.51–4.60 in men; OR = 1.90, 95% CI = 1.26–2.86 in women), while women carrying APOE ε4 appeared to have an increased risk at a younger age (OR = 3.29, 95% CI = 2.20–4.93 in women; OR = 2.91, 95% CI = 1.40–6.05 in men).

Discussion

The APOE ε4 allele represents a major risk factor for AD in the Taiwanese population. The effect of APOE ε4 allele on AD risk appeared to be stronger among men aged 75 years or more and among younger women.
The tailless gecko gets the worm: prey type alters the effects of caudal autotomy on prey capture and subjugation kinematics
Authors: Vollin Marina F. , Higham Timothy E.
Published: August 2023

Prey capture and subjugation are complex behaviors affected by many factors including physiological and behavioral traits of both the predator and the prey. The western banded gecko (Coleonyx variegatus) is a small generalist predator that consumes both evasive prey items, such as spiders, wasps, and orthopterans, and non-evasive prey items, including larvae, pupae, and isopterans. When consuming certain prey (e.g., scorpions), banded geckos will capture and then rapidly oscillate, or shake, their head and anterior part of their body. Banded geckos also have large, active tails that can account for over 20% of their body weight and can be voluntarily severed through the process of caudal autotomy. However, how autotomy influences prey capture behavior in geckos is poorly understood. Using high-speed 3D videography, we studied the effects of both prey type (mealworms and crickets) and tail autotomy on prey capture and subjugation performance in banded geckos. Performance metrics included maximum velocity and distance of prey capture, as well as velocity and frequency of post-capture shaking. Maximum velocity and distance of prey capture were lower for mealworms than crickets regardless of tail state. However, after autotomy, maximum velocity increased for strikes on mealworms but significantly decreased for crickets. After capture, geckos always shook mealworms, but never crickets. The frequency of shaking mealworms decreased after autotomy and additional qualitative differences were observed. Our results highlight the complex and interactive effects of prey type and caudal autotomy on prey capture biomechanics.
Elicitation of trustworthiness requirements for highly dexterous teleoperation systems with signal latency
Authors: Louca Joe , Vrublevskis John , Eder Kerstin , Tzemanaki Antonia
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Teleoperated robotic manipulators allow us to bring human dexterity and cognition to hard-to-reach places on Earth and in space. In long-distance teleoperation, however, the limits of the speed of light results in an unavoidable and perceivable signal delay. The resultant disconnect between command, action, and feedback means that systems often behave unexpectedly, reducing operators' trust in their systems. If we are to widely adopt telemanipulation technology in high-latency applications, we must identify and specify what would make these systems trustworthy.

Methods

In this requirements elicitation study, we present the results of 13 interviews with expert operators of remote machinery from four different application areas—nuclear reactor maintenance, robot-assisted surgery, underwater exploration, and ordnance disposal—exploring which features, techniques, or experiences lead them to trust their systems.

Results

We found that across all applications, except for surgery, the top-priority requirement for developing trust is that operators must have a comprehensive engineering understanding of the systems' capabilities and limitations. The remaining requirements can be summarized into three areas: improving situational awareness, facilitating operator training, and familiarity, and easing the operator's cognitive load.

Discussion

While the inclusion of technical features to assist the operators was welcomed, these were given lower priority than non-technical, user-centric approaches. The signal delays in the participants' systems ranged from none perceived to 1 min, and included examples of successful dexterous telemanipulation for maintenance tasks with a 2 s delay. As this is comparable to Earth-to-orbit and Earth-to-Moon delays, the requirements discussed could be transferable to telemanipulation tasks in space.
Learning-dependent structural plasticity of intracortical and sensory connections to functional domains of the olfactory tubercle
Authors: Sha Md Fazley Rabbi , Koga Yuriko , Murata Yoshihiro , Taniguchi Mutsuo , Yamaguchi Masahiro
Published: August 2023

The olfactory tubercle (OT), which is a component of the olfactory cortex and ventral striatum, has functional domains that play a role in odor-guided motivated behaviors. Learning odor-guided attractive and aversive behavior activates the anteromedial (am) and lateral (l) domains of the OT, respectively. However, the mechanism driving learning-dependent activation of specific OT domains remains unknown. We hypothesized that the neuronal connectivity of OT domains is plastically altered through olfactory experience. To examine the plastic potential of synaptic connections to OT domains, we optogenetically stimulated intracortical inputs from the piriform cortex or sensory inputs from the olfactory bulb to the OT in mice in association with a food reward for attractive learning and electrical foot shock for aversive learning. For both intracortical and sensory connections, axon boutons that terminated in the OT domains were larger in the amOT than in the lOT for mice exhibiting attractive learning and larger in the lOT than in the amOT for mice exhibiting aversive learning. These results indicate that both intracortical and sensory connections to the OT domains have learning-dependent plastic potential, suggesting that this plasticity underlies learning-dependent activation of specific OT domains and the acquisition of appropriate motivated behaviors.
Vitamin D deficiency prevention policies in Iran: a retrospective policy analysis
Authors: Aghapour Baharak , Kheirouri Sorayya , Alizadeh Mohammad , Khodayari-Zarnaq Rahim
Published: August 2023

Aim

Iran has a higher prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (VDD) than the global level. This study aimed to assess VDD prevention policies in Iran through a policy analysis of agenda setting using the multiple streams framework (MSF).

Methods

Using Kingdon's MSF model, this qualitative analytical study performed a policy analysis on vitamin D-related policies in Iran. The policy documents were reviewed, and in-depth interviews were conducted with stakeholders (n = 27) using the framework analysis method. To categorize data and extract the related themes, MAXQDA version 10 was used.

Results

According to Kingdon's MSF theory, the problem stream included the high prevalence of VDD among Iranian infants (23.3%), adolescents (76%), and adults (59.1%). The policy stream was identified to focus on preventing programs for non-communicable diseases in the health sector. The political stream indicated that national and international support could provide a political climate for this issue.

Conclusion

According to our results, a window of opportunity for policymaking on VDD prevention has opened. However, there are some challenges related to the implementation of these policies. These include the dominance of a treatment-based view rather than a prevention-based approach in the health sector, economic problems, and restricted access to health services due to the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). To strengthen and implement VDD prevention policies, the stakeholders need support from high-level policymakers.
Three-dimensional ultrasound-based radiomics nomogram for the prediction of extrathyroidal extension features in papillary thyroid cancer
Authors: Lu Wen-Jie , Mao Lin , Li Jin , OuYang Liang-Yan , Chen Jia-Yao , Chen Shi-Yan , Lin Yun-Yong , Wu Yi-Wen , Chen Shao-Na , Qiu Shao-Dong , Chen Fei
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To develop and validate a three-dimensional ultrasound (3D US) radiomics nomogram for the preoperative prediction of extrathyroidal extension (ETE) in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC).

Methods

This retrospective study included 168 patients with surgically proven PTC (non-ETE, n = 90; ETE, n = 78) who were divided into training (n = 117) and validation (n = 51) cohorts by a random stratified sampling strategy. The regions of interest (ROIs) were obtained manually from 3D US images. A larger number of radiomic features were automatically extracted. Finally, a nomogram was built, incorporating the radiomics scores and selected clinical predictors. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were performed to validate the capability of the nomogram on both the training and validation sets. The nomogram models were compared with conventional US models. The DeLong test was adopted to compare different ROC curves.

Results

The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of the radiologist was 0.67 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.580–0.757] in the training cohort and 0.62 (95% CI, 0.467–0.746) in the validation cohort. Sixteen features from 3D US images were used to build the radiomics signature. The radiomics nomogram, which incorporated the radiomics signature, tumor location, and tumor size showed good calibration and discrimination in the training cohort (AUC, 0.810; 95% CI, 0.727–0.876) and the validation cohort (AUC, 0.798; 95% CI, 0.662–0.897). The result suggested that the diagnostic efficiency of the 3D US-based radiomics nomogram was better than that of the radiologist and it had a favorable discriminate performance with a higher AUC (DeLong test: p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The 3D US-based radiomics signature nomogram, a noninvasive preoperative prediction method that incorporates tumor location and tumor size, presented more advantages over radiologist-reported ETE statuses for PTC.
Surgical approach for complete resection of giant retroperitoneal liposarcoma with diaphragmatic hernia via ninth rib thoracotomy
Authors: Hu Bai-e , Wu Chang-lei , Liu Ji-peng , Zhang Wen-jun
Published: August 2023

Background

Resection of a giant retroperitoneal liposarcoma is difficult and technically demanding, especially for large retroperitoneal tumors accompanied by a diaphragmatic hernia. Technically, the open abdominal approach can be time-consuming and difficult to perform, with possible intraoperative complications and other factors bringing psychological and physical difficulties to the patient. This study reports a safe and feasible approach for the complete resection of a large retroperitoneal tumor complicated by a diaphragmatic hernia.

Methods

A 58-year-old male patient with persistent upper abdominal pain and distension was treated at a local hospital on 4 July 2022. Computed tomography showed a mixed-density mass on the right retroperitoneum, and liposarcoma was considered. On 6 July 2022, the patient was transferred to our hospital for further treatment. Computed tomography showed a mass with low-density fatty shadow in the right adrenal region. The boundary with the right adrenal gland was unclear. The mass was 102 mm × 74 mm, and the right lobe of the liver was compressed. Insufficiency of the right middle lobe of the liver was seen due to a right diaphragmatic hernia and left mediastinal deviation. We considered the traditional approach for tumor resection via laparotomy, but we opted to perform a comprehensive evaluation first. The tumor was close to the back of the right kidney and liver, causing the diaphragm to rise because of its proximity to these organs. Exposing the tumor through laparotomy would be difficult, making it challenging to remove. The patient had a diaphragmatic hernia and moderate pulmonary dysfunction; therefore, we decided to enter the abdomen through a thoracotomy of the ninth rib.

Results

Using our technique, the tumor was easily visualized and completely removed in approximately 30 min. The intraoperative blood loss was 100 ml, and no postoperative bleeding, pneumothorax, intestinal fistula, infection, or other complications occurred.

Conclusion

The transthoracic approach may be a safer and more feasible resection method than the traditional open approach for patients with giant retroperitoneal liposarcoma with a diaphragmatic hernia.
Harnessing the immunomodulatory effects of exercise to enhance the efficacy of monoclonal antibody therapies against B-cell haematological cancers: a narrative review
Authors: Collier-Bain Harrison D. , Brown Frankie F. , Causer Adam J. , Emery Annabelle , Oliver Rebecca , Moore Sally , Murray James , Turner James E. , Campbell John P.
Published: August 2023

Therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are standard care for many B-cell haematological cancers. The modes of action for these mAbs include: induction of cancer cell lysis by activating Fcγ-receptors on innate immune cells; opsonising target cells for antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity or phagocytosis, and/or triggering the classical complement pathway; the simultaneous binding of cancer cells with T-cells to create an immune synapse and activate perforin-mediated T-cell cytotoxicity against cancer cells; blockade of immune checkpoints to facilitate T-cell cytotoxicity against immunogenic cancer cell clones; and direct delivery of cytotoxic agents via internalisation of mAbs by target cells. While treatment regimens comprising mAb therapy can lead to durable anti-cancer responses, disease relapse is common due to failure of mAb therapy to eradicate minimal residual disease. Factors that limit mAb efficacy include: suboptimal effector cell frequencies, overt immune exhaustion and/or immune anergy, and survival of diffusely spread tumour cells in different stromal niches. In this review, we discuss how immunomodulatory changes arising from exposure to structured bouts of acute exercise might improve mAb treatment efficacy by augmenting (i) antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, (ii) antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis, (iii) complement-dependent cytotoxicity, (iv) T-cell cytotoxicity, and (v) direct delivery of cytotoxic agents.
Closed reduction and percutaneous pinning for treatment of unstable lateral condyle fractures of the humerus in children
Authors: Qiao Fei , Guan Xiaohong , Jiang Fei , Lv Ping
Published: August 2023

Objective

In the past, obviously displaced lateral condyle fractures of the humerus in children were treated satisfactorily with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). However, in recent years, more studies have mentioned closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (CRPP) of these fractures.

Methods

In this retrospective investigation, the radiographic and clinical results of patients with these fractures that were initially managed with CRPP were newly classified. We classified these fractures into three groups according to the degree and pattern of fracture displacement as identified on four radiographic images. In Type I, the fracture is unstable and displacement is ≥2 mm; In Type II degree I, the fracture is unstable and displacement is >2 mm, with single rotation of fragment; In Type II degree II, the fracture is unstable and displacement is >2 mm, with single rotation of fragment, with rotation of fragment and antero-proximal displacement; In Type III, the fracture is unstable and displacement is >2 mm, with posterior dislocation of elbow joint. We also designed an algorithm for closed reduction of these fractures according to this new classification.

Results

We retrospectively analyzed the radiographic and clinical results of 37 unstable fractures (in 22 boys and 15 girls) that were treated with closed reduction. Twenty-one of 25 (84.0%) type I fractures, which could have been reduced to within 2 mm of residual displacement, were treated with closed reduction and pinning with 2 or 3 Kirschner wires (K wires). Three of 5 (60.0%) type II degree I, 3 of 4 (75.0%) type II degree II, and 3 of 3 (100%) type III fractures were treated with CRPP. In 4 of 25 (16.0%) type I, 2 of 5 (40.0%) type II degree I and 1 of 4 (25.0%) type II degree II fractures, closed reduction failed, so ORIF was implemented. There were no complications, such as nonunion, osteonecrosis of the capitellum, superficial or deep infection, malunion, cubitus varus or valgus, or early physeal arrest.

Conclusion

Although the management of type III fractures may not be more difficult than type II fractures with a rotated fracture fragment, as elbow dislocations are usually easy reducible. This retrospective study showed that type III fractures should not be ignored as a lateral condyle fracture that can be cured with CRPP and that lateral humeral condyle fractures with obvious displacement and rotation can be initially treated with CRPP to achieve satisfactory recovery of the elbow. Kirschner wire (K wire) fixation is recommended to avoid reoperation or anesthesia for hardware removal.
Potential analgesic effect of Foshousan oil-loaded chitosan-alginate nanoparticles on the treatment of migraine
Authors: Chen Yulong , Cheng Qingzhou , Zeng Shan , Lv Site
Published: August 2023

Background: Migraine is a common neurovascular disorder with typical throbbing and unilateral headaches, causing a considerable healthcare burden on the global economy. This research aims to prepare chitosan-alginate (CS-AL) nanoparticles (NPs) containing Foshousan oil (FSSO) and investigate its potential therapeutic effects on the treatment of migraine.

Methods: FSSO-loaded CS-AL NPs were prepared by using the single emulsion solvent evaporation method. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated BV-2 cells and nitroglycerin (NTG)-induced migraine mice were further used to explore anti-migraine activities and potential mechanisms of this botanical drug.

Results: FSSO-loaded CS-AL NPs (212.1 ± 5.2 nm, 45.1 ± 6.2 mV) had a well-defined spherical shape with prolonged drug release and good storage within 4 weeks. FSSO and FSSO-loaded CS-AL NPs (5, 10, and 15 μg/mL) showed anti-inflammatory activities in LPS-treated BV-2 cells via reducing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and nitric oxide (NO), but elevating interleukin-10 (IL-10) expressions. Moreover, FSSO-loaded CS-AL NPs (52 and 104 mg/kg) raised pain thresholds against the hot stimulus and decreased acetic acid-induced writhing frequency and foot-licking duration in NTG-induced migraine mice. Compared with the model group, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and NO levels were downregulated, but 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and endothelin (ET) levels were upregulated along with rebalanced ET/NO ratio, and vasomotor dysfunction was alleviated by promoting cerebral blood flow (CBF) in the FSSO-loaded CS-AL NPs (104 mg/kg) group.

Conclusion: FSSO-loaded CS-AL NPs could attenuate migraine via inhibiting neuroinflammation in LPS-stimulated BV-2 cells and regulating vasoactive substances in NTG-induced migraine mice. These findings suggest that the FSS formula may be exploited as new phytotherapy for treating migraine.
The protective mechanism of Dehydromiltirone in diabetic kidney disease is revealed through network pharmacology and experimental validation
Authors: Wang Yanzhe , Liu Yuyuan , Chen Sijia , Li Fengqin , Wu Yue , Xie Xinmiao , Zhang Nan , Zeng Chuchu , Bai Linnan , Dai Mengshi , Zhang Ling , Wang Xiaoxia
Published: August 2023

Background:Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM) is an effective traditional Chinese medicine for treating DKD, but the exact mechanism is elusive. In this study, we aimed to investigate and confirm the method underlying the action of the active components of SM in the treatment of DKD.

Methods: Renal tissue transcriptomics and network pharmacology of DKD patients was performed to identify the active components of SM and the disease targets of DKD. Next, the point of convergence among these three groups was studied. Potential candidate genes were identified and analyzed using Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). The component-target networks were modelled and visualized with Cytoscape. In addition, docking studies were performed to validate our potential target predictions. Lastly, in vitro and in vivo experiments were performed to understand the role of Dehydromiltirone (DHT), the active component of SM, in the phenotypic switching of mesangial cells.

Results: Transcriptomics of DKD patients’ renal tissues screened 4,864 differentially expressed genes. Eighty-nine active components of SM and 161 common targets were found. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that 161 genes were enriched in apoptosis, the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, and the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetes complications. Molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations show that DHT can bind to functional PIK3CA pockets, thereby becoming a possible inhibitor of PIK3CA. In vitro study demonstrated that DHT reduced the expression of phenotypic switching markers α-SMA, Col-I, and FN in HMCs by downregulating the over-activation of the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway through the inhibition of PIK3CA. Furthermore, the DKD mouse model confirmed that DHT could reduce proteinuria and improve glomerular hypertrophy in vivo.

Conclusion: DHT was identified as the key active component of SM, and its therapeutic effect on DKD was achieved by inhibiting the phenotypic switching of mesangial cells via the PIK3CA signaling pathway.
Network pharmacology-based analysis of potential mechanisms of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury by total salvianolic acid injection
Authors: Li Nan , Gu Xufang , Liu Fanqi , Zhang Yao , Sun Yanjun , Gao Shengwei , Wang Baohe , Zhang Chen
Published: August 2023

In this review, we investigated the potential mechanism of Total Salvianolic Acid Injection (TSI) in protecting against myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MI/RI). To achieve this, we predicted the component targets of TSI using Pharmmapper and identified the disease targets of MI/RI through GeneCards, DisGenNET, and OMIM databases. We constructed protein-protein interaction networks by analyzing the overlapping targets and performed functional enrichment analyses using Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes. Our analysis yielded 90 targets, which were implicated in the potential therapeutic effects of TSI on MI/RI. Seven critical signaling pathways significantly contributed to TSI’s protective effects, namely, PI3K signaling, JAK-STAT signaling, Calcium signaling, HIF-1 signaling, Nuclear receptor signaling, Cell Cycle, and Apoptosis. Subsequently, we conducted a comprehensive literature review of these seven key signaling pathways to gain further insights into their role in the TSI-mediated treatment of MI/RI. By establishing these connections, our study lays a solid foundation for future research endeavours to elucidate the molecular mechanisms through which TSI exerts its beneficial effects on MI/RI.
A neural state-space-based model predictive technique for effective vibration control in nano-beams
Authors: Alsubaie Hajid
Published: August 2023

Model predictive control (MPC) is a cutting-edge control technique, but its susceptibility to inaccuracies in the model remains a challenge for embedded systems. In this study, we propose a data-driven MPC framework to address this issue and achieve robust and adaptable performance. Our framework involves systematically identifying system dynamics and learning the MPC policy through function approximations. Specifically, we introduce a system identification method based on the Deep neural network (DNN) and integrate it with MPC. The function approximation capability of DNN enables the controller to learn the nonlinear dynamics of the system then the MPC policy is established based on the identified model. Also, through an added control term the robustness and convergence of the closed-loop system are guaranteed. Then the governing equation of a non-local strain gradient (NSG) nano-beam is presented. Finally, the proposed control scheme is used for vibration suppression in the NSG nano-beam. To validate the effectiveness of our approach, the controller is applied to the unknown system, meaning that solely during the training phase of the neural state-space-based model we relied on the data extracted from the time history of the beam’s deflection. The simulation results conclusively demonstrate the remarkable performance of our proposed approach in effectively suppressing vibrations.
Increase in cotton yield through improved leaf physiological functioning under the soil condition of reduced chemical fertilization compensated by the enhanced organic liquid fertilization
Authors: Shi Xiaojuan , Hao Xianzhe , Khan Aziz , Li Nannan , Li Junhong , Shi Feng , Tian Yu , Nepal Jaya , Wang Jun , Luo Honghai
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Low agricultural nutrient input efficiency remains a significant impediment for crop production globally. To address this issue in cotton agroecosystems, there is a need to develop sustainable crop nutrient management strategies to achieve high crop yields. We hypothesized that organic liquid fertilizer (OF) combined with reduced chemical fertilizer (CF) would enhance cotton yield by improving leaf functioning and soil properties. However, the underlying mechanism and its related process is poorly understood.

Methods

This study explored the effects of OF combined with reduced CF on cotton yield, physiology and soil properties. Treatments included a single application of CF (CF: N, P2O5 and K2O applied at 228, 131 and 95 kg ha−1) and combined applications of OF and CF (OF0.6−OF1.4) in the following ratios: OF0.6, OF+60% CF; OF0.8, OF+80% CF; OF1.0, OF+100% CF; OF1.2, OF+120% CF; OF1.4, OF+140% CF.

Results and discussion

The result showed that compared with CF, OF0.8, OF1.0 and OF1.2 increased soil organic matter (SOM) content by 9.9%, 16.3% and 23.7%, respectively. Compared with CF, the OF0.6, OF0.8, OF1.0, and OF1.2 treatments increased leaf area (LA) by 10.6−26.1%, chlorophyll content (Chl content) by 6.8−39.6%, and the efficiency of photosystem II (PSII) light energy (Y(II)), electron transfer rate of PSII (ETR) and photochemical quenching (qP) by 3.6−26.3%, 4.7−15.3% and 4.3−9.8%, respectively. The OF0.8 treatment increased net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs) and transpiration rate (E) by 22.0%, 27.4% and 26.8%, respectively, resulting in higher seed cotton yield. The seed cotton yield and economic coefficient were positively correlated with Pn, E, Gs and Y(II) from the full boll stage to the boll opening stage. In summary, the OF0.8 treatment can maintain a high SOM content and photosynthetic performance with reduced chemical fertilizer input without sacrificing yield. The integration of OF+80% CF (OF0.8) is a promising nutrient management strategy for highly efficient cotton production under mulch drip irrigation systems.
Application of improved YOLOv7-based sugarcane stem node recognition algorithm in complex environments
Authors: Wen Chunming , Guo Huanyu , Li Jianheng , Hou Bingxu , Huang Youzong , Li Kaihua , Nong Hongliang , Long Xiaozhu , Lu Yuchun
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Sugarcane stem node detection is one of the key functions of a small intelligent sugarcane harvesting robot, but the accuracy of sugarcane stem node detection is severely degraded in complex field environments when the sugarcane is in the shadow of confusing backgrounds and other objects.

Methods

To address the problem of low accuracy of sugarcane arise node detection in complex environments, this paper proposes an improved sugarcane stem node detection model based on YOLOv7. First, the SimAM (A Simple Parameter-Free Attention Module for Convolutional Neural Networks) attention mechanism is added to solve the problem of feature loss due to the loss of image global context information in the convolution process, which improves the detection accuracy of the model in the case of image blurring; Second, the Deformable convolution Network is used to replace some of the traditional convolution layers in the original YOLOv7. Finally, a new bounding box regression loss function WIoU Loss is introduced to solve the problem of unbalanced sample quality, improve the model robustness and generalization ability, and accelerate the convergence speed of the network.

Results

The experimental results show that the mAP of the improved algorithm model is 94.53% and the F1 value is 92.41, which are 3.43% and 2.21 respectively compared with the YOLOv7 model, and compared with the mAP of the SOTA method which is 94.1%, an improvement of 0.43% is achieved, which effectively improves the detection performance of the target detection model.

Discussion

This study provides a theoretical basis and technical support for the development of a small intelligent sugarcane harvesting robot, and may also provide a reference for the detection of other types of crops in similar environments.
Pitfalls and potential of high-throughput plant phenotyping platforms
Authors: Poorter Hendrik , Hummel Grégoire M. , Nagel Kerstin A. , Fiorani Fabio , von Gillhaussen Philipp , Virnich Olivia , Schurr Ulrich , Postma Johannes A. , van de Zedde Rick , Wiese-Klinkenberg Anika
Published: August 2023

Automated high-throughput plant phenotyping (HTPP) enables non-invasive, fast and standardized evaluations of a large number of plants for size, development, and certain physiological variables. Many research groups recognize the potential of HTPP and have made significant investments in HTPP infrastructure, or are considering doing so. To make optimal use of limited resources, it is important to plan and use these facilities prudently and to interpret the results carefully. Here we present a number of points that users should consider before purchasing, building or utilizing such equipment. They relate to (1) the financial and time investment for acquisition, operation, and maintenance, (2) the constraints associated with such machines in terms of flexibility and growth conditions, (3) the pros and cons of frequent non-destructive measurements, (4) the level of information provided by proxy traits, and (5) the utilization of calibration curves. Using data from an Arabidopsis experiment, we demonstrate how diurnal changes in leaf angle can impact plant size estimates from top-view cameras, causing deviations of more than 20% over the day. Growth analysis data from another rosette species showed that there was a curvilinear relationship between total and projected leaf area. Neglecting this curvilinearity resulted in linear calibration curves that, although having a high r2 (> 0.92), also exhibited large relative errors. Another important consideration we discussed is the frequency at which calibration curves need to be generated and whether different treatments, seasons, or genotypes require distinct calibration curves. In conclusion, HTPP systems have become a valuable addition to the toolbox of plant biologists, provided that these systems are tailored to the research questions of interest, and users are aware of both the possible pitfalls and potential involved.
Fear of disease progression among breast cancer patients in China: a meta-analysis of studies using the fear of progression questionnaire short form
Authors: He Jia-Li , Xu Hui-Qiong , Yang Jing , Hou Dong-Jiang , Gong Xiao-Yan , Lu Xian-Ying , Wang Wei , Cai Ming-Jin , Yu Yu-Feng , Gao Jing
Published: August 2023

Background

Fear of disease progression (FoP) is among the most prevalent and major psychological burdens breast cancer patients encounter. Excessive FoP may result in serious adverse effects for patients. FoP in breast cancer patients has gained attention recently; however, its prevalence in China is unknown.

Objectives

This meta-analysis and systematic review aimed to assess the overall FoP among Chinese breast cancer patients to make recommendations for treatment and care.

Methods

Systematic search databases included PubMed, EMbase, The Cohrane Library, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO and 4 Chinese databases (Wan Fang Data, CBM, VIP and CNKI). The retrieval time ranged from the database’s establishment to March 20, 2023. After two researchers independently evaluated the literature, retrieved information, and assessed the risk of bias for the included literature, Stata 15.1 software was used to conduct a meta-analysis.

Results

A total of 37 moderate or high-quality studies involving 9,689 breast cancer patients were included. Meta-analysis showed that the pooled mean score of FoP for Chinese breast cancer patients was 33.84 [95% CI (31.91, 35.77)], prediction interval (21.57 ~ 46.11). The subgroup study found that FoP levels varied among breast cancer patients of different regions, ages, educational levels, marital statuses, residences, illness stages, and disease statuses.

Conclusion

Breast cancer patients have higher FoP scores. Healthcare workers should be concerned. We expect that more relevant research will be undertaken and more effective interventions will be developed. Patients can manage their illness and improve their quality of life by reducing their fears.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier: PROSPERO CRD42023408914.
Mapping principles and worked examples for structural learning: effects of content complexity
Authors: Liao Hsinmei
Published: August 2023

Drawing connections between principles and worked examples is an approach to learning and instruction, but it is poorly understood. This study investigated the effects of principle and example complexity on learners’ ability to map principles and worked examples. The complexity of a principle or example was determined based on the number of concepts and relationships involved. 138 college students were randomly assigned to one of the mapping conditions: principle–simple example, principle–complex example, simple example–simple example, simple example–complex example, and complex example–complex example. The participants studied related materials and completed a free-mapping and a guided-mapping task for a simple and a complex probability principle. The effects of the mapping activities were measured in terms of gains in structural and conceptual knowledge. For the simple principle, principle–example mapping led to fewer nonrelational comparisons (standalone concepts) than did example–example mapping and an equal number of relational comparisons (interconnected concepts). For the complex principle, principle–example mapping led to fewer nonrelational but more relational comparisons than example–example mapping did. Principle–example mapping of corresponding content was more difficult than example–example mapping was. However, principle–example mapping of noncorresponding content was as easy as or easier than example–example mapping. The two forms of mapping resulted in equivalent gains in structural and conceptual knowledge. The findings of this study expand the understanding of analogical reasoning and learning through mapping and comparison of abstract and concrete content. The findings indicate that principle–example mapping enables learners to overcome the obstacles of comprehending abstract or general information and to identify the interrelationships of the individual concepts in formal structures.
Can a brief session of the online coronavirus disease 2019 destigmatization program reduce stigma among survivors? A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Techapoonpon Kamolvisa , Wonglertwisawakorn Chayut , Kerdchareon Nitchawan , Pruttithavorn Wisarat , Srikhamdokkhae Orranee
Published: August 2023

Background

Stigmatization has taken a heavy toll on the mental health and quality of life of the survivors of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). To address this issue, we proposed a brief, self-directed, reflective, and practical destigmatization intervention. The current study aimed to investigate the efficacy of the online COVID-19 destigmatization program (OCDP) in mitigating stigma among the survivors of COVID-19.

Methods

This study was conducted on 142 survivors of COVID-19 before their discharge from Vajra Hospital from July 2022 to November 2022. The participants were randomly assigned between the intervention group (n = 71), who attended the 40-min OCDP, and the control group (n = 71), who received standard mental health care. The primary outcome was the efficacy of OCDP in reducing stigmatization. A COVID-19 stigma questionnaire was administered to assess stigmatization in the intervention and control groups immediately before and after the program during follow-up on days 7, 14, and 28. The secondary outcome was the efficacy of the program in alleviating negative emotions according to the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale 21 questionnaire.

Results

Compared with the control group, the intervention group had a more prominent reduction in the overall stigma score on day 7 (p = 0.002) and day 14 (p = 0.028). The intervention group had a more evident reduction in enacted stigma (day 7, p = 0.04), internalized stigma (day 7, p = 0.008; day 14, p < 0.028), and perceived external stigma (day 7, p = 0.002) than the control group. However, there was no significant difference in terms of disclosure concern between the intervention and control groups. Furthermore, the reduction in depression, anxiety, and stress between the two groups did not significantly differ.

Conclusion

Online COVID-19 destigmatization program provided prior to hospital discharge is an effective tool in reducing stigmatization, particularly within the first 2 weeks after reintegration into society, among the survivors of COVID-19.
Evaluation of thrombin generation in dogs administered clopidogrel
Authors: Rank Kaitlyn , Lynch Alex M. , Ruterbories Laura K. , Li Ronald H. L. , Ueda Yu
Published: August 2023

Introduction

The antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel can vary between patients. A modified thromboelastography (TEG) protocol (TEG-Platelet Mapping assay® [TEG-PM]) can be used for clopidogrel monitoring but is not widely available. Thrombin generation (TG) assays could offer a novel alternative. The main objective of this pilot study was to assess TG assay variables (lag time, peak, endogenous thrombin potential [ETP]) in dogs before and after 7 days of clopidogrel administration and compare with TEG-PM variables (maximum amplitude [MA]-ADP and percentage (%) inhibition).

Methods

Six healthy mix-breed dogs were enrolled in this pilot study. Blood samples for platelet count, TG assays, and TEG-PM were obtained at two time points, corresponding to baseline, and after 7 days of clopidogrel administration (mean 2.3 +/− 0.3 mg/kg PO q24 hours). Data were then compared with a Student’s t-test.

Results

There was no significant change in TG assay variables performed on platelet poor plasma after 7 days of clopidogrel administration: lag time (Day 1: 1.8 +/− 0.2 min, Day 7: 1.8 +/− 0.2 min, p = 0.42); peak (Day 1: 76 +/− 7 nM, Day 7: 72 +/− 10 nM, p = 0.49); and ETP (Day 1: 399 +/− 27 nM*min, Day 7: 392 +/− 32 nM*min; p = 0.49). There were significant changes in TEG MA-ADP (Day 1: 19 +/− 8 mm, Day 7: 9 +/− 6 mm, p = 0.04) and % inhibition (Day 1: 58 +/− 27, Day 7: 99 +/− 0.3, p = 0.02).

Discussion

Clopidogrel administration did not lead to changes in TG assay variables performed on platelet poor plasma samples, despite concomitant changes in TEG-PM variables consistent with platelet inhibition. Based on this pilot study, thrombin generation performed on platelet poor plasma may not be a useful antiplatelet monitoring tool in dogs.
Therapeutic efficacy and pharmacokinetics of liposomal-cannabidiol injection: a pilot clinical study in dogs with naturally-occurring osteoarthritis
Authors: Shilo-Benjamini Yael , Lavy Eran , Yair Nadav , Milgram Joshua , Zilbersheid Daniel , Hod Atara , Barasch Dinorah , Abu Ahmad Wiessam , Cern Ahuva , Barenholz Yechezkel
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Osteoarthritis is a common disease in dogs resulting in chronic pain and decreased wellbeing. Common analgesics such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories may fail to control pain and can produce major adverse effects. Study objectives were to evaluate pharmacokinetics, therapeutic efficacy, and safety of subcutaneous liposomal-cannabidiol (CBD) as an additional analgesic therapy in dogs suffering from naturally-occurring osteoarthritis.

Methods

Six such dogs were recruited following ethics approval and owner consent. Dogs were administered a single subcutaneous injection of 5 mg/kg liposomal-CBD. Plasma concentrations of CBD, blood work, activity monitoring collar data, wellbeing questionnaire (owners) and pain scoring (veterinarian) were performed at baseline and monitored up to six weeks following intervention. Data overtime were compared with baseline using linear-regression mixed-effects. P-value was set at 0.05.

Results

CBD plasma concentrations were observed for 6 weeks; median (range) peak plasma concentration (Cmax) was 45.2 (17.8–72.5) ng/mL, time to Cmax was 4 (2–14) days and half-life was 12.4 (7.7–42.6) days. Median (range) collar activity score was significantly increased on weeks 5–6; from 29 (17–34) to 34 (21–38). Scores of wellbeing and pain evaluations were significantly improved at 2–3 weeks; from 69 (52–78) to 53.5 (41–68), and from 7.5 (6–8) to 5.5 (5–7), respectively. The main adverse effect was minor local swelling for several days in 5/6 dogs.

Conclusion

Liposomal-CBD administered subcutaneously produced detectable CBD plasma concentrations for 6 weeks with minimal side effects and demonstrated reduced pain and increased wellbeing as part of multimodal pain management in dogs suffering from osteoarthritis. Further placebo-controlled studies are of interest.
Immunoadsorption-Based HLA Desensitization in Patients Awaiting Deceased Donor Kidney Transplantation: An Interventional, Non-Randomised, Single Cohort Study
Authors: Bureau Côme , Rafat Cédric , Taupin Jean Luc , Malard Stéphanie , Mesnard Laurent , François Hélène , Petit-Hoang Camille , Ouali Nacera , Hertig Alexandre , Jamme Matthieu , Buob David , Rondeau Eric , Galichon Pierre , Luque Yosu
Published: August 2023

Whether immunoadsorption (IADS) as part of desensitization protocols could facilitate deceased donor kidney transplantation (KT) in highly sensitized (HS) patients remains to be proven. We retrospectively analyzed our IADS based desensitization protocol for deceased donor KTs between 2013 and 2018. Fifteen HS patients (age 52 years [40–56]) were included. Waiting time before IADS was 6 years [5–10] and the interval between IADS initiation and KT was 5 months [1–12] for the 14 transplanted patients. Nine patients had prior KT. Calculated panel reactive antibody decreased significantly during the protocol (99.3% [92.5–99.9] vs. 79.4% [56.7–81.9]; p = 0.004). Death-censored graft survival was 85.7% at 1 and 2 years post-transplantation. One-year median plasma creatinine level was 135 µmol/L [111–202]. Six developed active antibody mediated rejection (ABMR) at 1 year, with a median delay of 13 days [11–26]. Eight patients developed severe infections, including two fatal outcomes. Finally, compared to 93% of patients who received desensitization receiving a KT, only 43% of a control with similar characteristics underwent transplantation. However, no difference was found in overall probability of being alive with a functioning graft at the end of follow-up. The results indicate that our IADS-based desensitization strategy was not effective due to a high rate of ABMR and severe infectious complications which pose a challenge to its universalization.