bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Responses of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus contents and stoichiometry in soil and fine roots to natural vegetation restoration in a tropical mountainous area, Southern China
Authors: Hu Gang , Zhang Zhonghua , Li Lei
Published: May 2023

The stoichiometry of key elements such as C, N, and P is an important indicator of ecosystem nutrient status and biogeochemical cycling. Nevertheless, the responses of soil and plant C:N:P stoichiometric characteristics to natural vegetation restoration remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated C, N, and P contents and stoichiometry in soil and fine roots along vegetation restoration stages (grassland, shrubland, secondary forest, and primary forest) in a tropical mountainous area in southern China. We found that soil organic carbon, total N, C:P ratio, and N:P ratio significantly increased with vegetation restoration and significantly decreased with increasing soil depth, whereas there was no significant effect on soil total P and C:N ratio. Furthermore, vegetation restoration significantly increased the fine root N and P content and N:P ratio, whereas soil depth significantly decreased the fine root N content and increased the C:N ratio. The increasing average N:P ratio in fine roots from 17.59 to 21.45 suggested that P limitation increased with vegetation restoration. There were many significant correlations between C, N, and P contents and their ratios in soil and fine roots, indicating a reciprocal control of nutrient stoichiometric characteristics between them. These results contribute to our understanding of changes in soil and plant nutrient status and biogeochemical cycling during vegetation restoration and provide valuable information for restoration and management of tropical ecosystems.
Exogenous spermine alleviates the negative effects of combined salinity and paraquat in tomato plants by decreasing stress-induced oxidative damage
Authors: Pascual Lidia S. , López-Climent María F. , Segarra-Medina Clara , Gómez-Cadenas Aurelio , Zandalinas Sara I.
Published: May 2023

Plants are frequently exposed to different combinations of soil constraints including salinity and different herbicides. These abiotic conditions negatively affect photosynthesis, growth and plant development resulting in limitations in agriculture production. To respond to these conditions, plants accumulate different metabolites that restore cellular homeostasis and are key for stress acclimation processes. In this work, we analyzed the role of exogenous spermine (Spm), a polyamine involved in plant tolerance to abiotic stress, in tomato responses to the combination of salinity (S) and the herbicide paraquat (PQ). Our findings showed that application of Spm reduced leaf damage and enhanced survival, growth, photosystem II function and photosynthetic rate of tomato plants subjected to the combination of S and PQ. In addition, we revealed that exogenous Spm reduced H2O2 and malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation in plants subjected to S+PQ, suggesting that the role of exogenous Spm in alleviating the negative effects of this stress combination could be attributed to a decrease in stress-induced oxidative damage in tomato plants. Taken together, our results identify a key role for Spm in improving plant tolerance to combined stress.
Influence of game features on attention in adults
Authors: Gallen Courtney L. , Schachtner Jessica N. , Anguera-Singla Roger , Anguera Joaquin A. , Gazzaley Adam
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The incorporation of game features into cognitive tasks can inform us about the influence of reward and motivation on attention. Continuous performance tasks (CPTs), designed to assess attention abilities, are examples of cognitive tasks that have been targeted for the addition of game features. However, previous results have been mixed regarding how game elements affect attention abilities and task performance.

Methods

Here, we studied if there were factors that predict which individuals exhibit changes in attention from game features added to a CPT. Participants (N = 94, aged 21–71) played a traditional CPT and a game CPT with identical mechanics, but featured engaging game elements (aesthetics, storyline, competition, feedback, and reward).

Results

We first found corroborating evidence that game features have mixed effects on attention performance: most attention metrics of interest exhibited no overall difference between the traditional and game CPT, while game elements reduced performance for a few metrics. Importantly, we also found that specific behavioral and demographic profiles predicted individual differences in performance on the game CPT compared to the traditional CPT. Those with more attention difficulties (ADHD symptoms), more reward responsiveness, and younger adults performed better on the game CPT while, conversely, those with fewer ADHD symptoms, less reward responsiveness, and older adults performed better on the traditional CPT.

Discussion

These findings provide insights into how game features can influence attention in different individuals and have important implications for the use of game elements in cognitive tasks and training interventions.
Performing arts as a non-pharmacological intervention for people with dementia and care-partners: a community case study
Authors: Malinin Laura H. , Faw Meara , Davalos Deana
Published: May 2023

Participation in psychosocial enrichment activities, such as music and arts programming, have shown potential to delay or reduce functional decline - without adverse effects that can be associated with pharmaceuticals. The performing-arts programming described in this community case study was inspired by a community music program called B-Sharp Music Wellness, located in Phoenix, Arizona, which involved small groups of musicians who provided symphony performances for people with dementia. Our community programming sought to engage people with dementia and their informal care partner (typically a spouse) in existing performing-arts programs in their local community, providing social hours and season tickets for either symphony, dance (ballet), or non-musical theater performances. This case study describes the program history and design, including outcomes and lessons learned from the program evaluation of the last full season (2018–19) and partial season (2019–20), when the program was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Program outcomes suggest strategies for, and benefits of, design for performing-arts programs as psychosocial interventions in other communities.
Machine learning for the detection of social anxiety disorder using effective connectivity and graph theory measures
Authors: Al-Ezzi Abdulhakim , Kamel Nidal , Al-Shargabi Amal A. , Al-Shargie Fares , Al-Shargabi Alaa , Yahya Norashikin , Al-Hiyali Mohammed Isam
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The early diagnosis and classification of social anxiety disorder (SAD) are crucial clinical support tasks for medical practitioners in designing patient treatment programs to better supervise the progression and development of SAD. This paper proposes an effective method to classify the severity of SAD into different grading (severe, moderate, mild, and control) by using the patterns of brain information flow with their corresponding graphical networks.

Methods

We quantified the directed information flow using partial directed coherence (PDC) and the topological networks by graph theory measures at four frequency bands (delta, theta, alpha, and beta). The PDC assesses the causal interactions between neuronal units of the brain network. Besides, the graph theory of the complex network identifies the topological structure of the network. Resting-state electroencephalogram (EEG) data were recorded for 66 patients with different severities of SAD (22 severe, 22 moderate, and 22 mild) and 22 demographically matched healthy controls (HC).

Results

PDC results have found significant differences between SAD groups and HCs in theta and alpha frequency bands (p < 0.05). Severe and moderate SAD groups have shown greater enhanced information flow than mild and HC groups in all frequency bands. Furthermore, the PDC and graph theory features have been used to discriminate three classes of SAD from HCs using several machine learning classifiers. In comparison to the features obtained by PDC, graph theory network features combined with PDC have achieved maximum classification performance with accuracy (92.78%), sensitivity (95.25%), and specificity (94.12%) using Support Vector Machine (SVM).

Discussion

Based on the results, it can be concluded that the combination of graph theory features and PDC values may be considered an effective tool for SAD identification. Our outcomes may provide new insights into developing biomarkers for SAD diagnosis based on topological brain networks and machine learning algorithms.
Effects of media exposure on PTSD symptoms in college students during the COVID-19 outbreak
Authors: Zhu Xiao-Li , Wen Zhu , Yu Wen-Bo
Published: May 2023

Objective

We aimed to investigate the influence of media on college students’ mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

After the COVID-19 outbreak, we used cross-sectional surveys through online questionnaires to investigate the mental health of college students in lockdown at home. We identified the influencing factors of PTSD symptoms using the Chi-Square test and ordinal logistic regression analysis.

Results

In 10,989 valid questionnaires, 9,906 college students with no PTSD symptoms, 947 college students with subclinical PTSD symptoms (1–3 items), and 136 college students with four or more PTSD symptoms were screened out. The results showed that media content impacted the mental health of college students in lockdown at home. Positive media content was negatively correlated with PTSD symptoms among college students. PTSD symptoms were not associated with sources of information. Moreover, College students with PTSD symptoms would reduce their willingness to learn and could not complete online learning efficiently.

Conclusion

PTSD symptoms are related to media exposure and excessive information involvement of COVID-19 in college students, which influences the willingness to attend online classes.
Cardiovascular disease risk perception among community adults in South China: a latent profile analysis
Authors: Guo Zhiting , Yuan Yong , Fu Yujia , Cui Nianqi , Yu Qunfei , Guo Erling , Ding Chuanqi , Zhang Yuping , Jin Jingfen
Published: May 2023

Objective

Risk perception, a critical psychological construct, influences health behavior modification and maintenance of individuals with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Little is known about CVD risk perception among Chinese adults. This research examined the profiles of CVD risk perception of community adults in South China, and explored the characteristics and factors that influence their perception of CVD risk.

Method

This cross-sectional study was conducted in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, in South China from March to July 2022 and included 692 participants. Risk perception was assessed using the Chinese version of the Attitude and Beliefs about Cardiovascular Disease Risk Questionnaire. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was performed to extract latent classes of CVD risk perception. These classes of CVD risk perception were compared with 10-year CVD risk categories to define correctness of estimation. Chi-square tests and multinomial regression analyses were used to identify differences between these categories.

Results

Three CVD risk perception classes were identified by LPA: low risk perception (14.2% of participants), moderate risk perception (46.8%), high risk perception (39.0%). Individuals who were aged with 40–60 year (OR = 6.94, 95% CI = 1.86–25.84), diabetes (OR = 6.26, 95% CI = 1.34–29.17), married (OR = 4.52, 95% CI = 2.30–8.90), better subjective health status (OR = 3.23, 95% CI = 1.15–9.10) and perceived benefits and intention to change physical activity (OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.05–1.27) were more likely to be in the high-risk perception class. Compared to absolute 10-year CVD risk based on China-PAR, a third of participants (30.1%) correctly estimated their CVD risk, 63.3% overestimated it and 6.6% underestimated it. CVD risk underestimation was associated with hypertension (OR = 3.91, 95% CI = 1.79–8.54), drinking (OR = 3.05, 95% CI = 1.22–7.64), better subjective health status (OR = 2.67, 95% CI = 1.18–6.03).

Conclusions

Most adults in South China possess a moderate level of CVD risk perception. Advanced age, higher monthly income, diabetes and better health status were significantly related to higher perceived CVD risk. Individuals with hypertension, drinking and better subjective health status were associated with CVD risk underestimation. Healthcare professionals should pay attention to the indicators for different classes and identify underestimation group as early as possible.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of COVID-19 screening strategy under China's dynamic zero-case policy
Authors: Li Haonan , Zhang Hui
Published: May 2023

This study aims to optimize the COVID-19 screening strategies under China's dynamic zero-case policy through cost-effectiveness analysis. A total of 9 screening strategies with different screening frequencies and combinations of detection methods were designed. A stochastic agent-based model was used to simulate the progress of the COVID-19 outbreak in scenario I (close contacts were promptly quarantined) and scenario II (close contacts were not promptly quarantined). The primary outcomes included the number of infections, number of close contacts, number of deaths, the duration of the epidemic, and duration of movement restriction. Net monetary benefit (NMB) and the incremental cost-benefit ratio were used to compare the cost-effectiveness of different screening strategies. The results indicated that under China's COVID-19 dynamic zero-case policy, high-frequency screening can help contain the spread of the epidemic, reduce the size and burden of the epidemic, and is cost-effective. Mass antigen testing is not cost-effective compared with mass nucleic acid testing in the same screening frequency. It would be more cost-effective to use AT as a supplemental screening tool when NAT capacity is insufficient or when outbreaks are spreading very rapidly.
Epidemiological characteristics and risk factors of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in Luoyang, China
Authors: Wang Zhenzhen , Hou Yi , Guo Tengfei , Jiang Tao , Xu Liang , Hu Hongxia , Zhao Zhanqin , Xue Yun
Published: May 2023

Objective

We aimed to examine the prevalence of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in Luoyang, China, identify related risk factors, inform clinical practices, and establish standardized anti-tubercular treatment regimens.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of high-resolution melting curve (HRM) data from 17,773 cases (2,748 of which were positive) between June 2019 and May 2022 to assess the prevalence of MDR-TB and to identify its associated risk factors.

Results

Between June 2019 and May 2022, out of the 17,773 HRM results, 2,748 were HRM-positive, and 312 were MDR-TB cases. The detection rates for HRM-positive and MDR-TB were 17.0 and 12.1% for males, and 12.4 and 8.2% for females, respectively. The MDR-TB detection rate was higher in the urban areas (14.6%) than in the rural areas (10.6%) and more common among individuals under 51 years of age (14.1%) than those over 50 years of age (9.3%). Notably, the rate of detecting MDR-TB was 18.3% higher in new male patients than in new female patients, which was at 10.6%, and this difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Moreover, the rate of MDR detection in females who had received anti-tuberculosis treatment (21.3%) was higher than that in males (16.9%). In the multivariate model that considered the results of the sputum smear and detection time, MDR-TB was positively correlated with a history of tuberculosis (TB) treatment, being male, being younger than 51 years, and living in urban areas.

Conclusion

Local TB infections are complex and diverse; therefore, more comprehensive monitoring methods are needed to curb the spread of MDR-TB.
Social determinants of ambulatory care sensitive conditions: a qualitative meta-synthesis based on patient perspectives
Authors: Chen Hsueh-Fen , Lin Hung-Ru
Published: May 2023

Background

Hospitalizations or emergency department (ED) visits due to ambulatory care-sensitive conditions (ACSC) are preventable but cost billions in modern countries. The objective of the study is to use a meta-synthesis approach based on patients' narratives from qualitative studies to reveal why individuals are at risk of ACSC hospitalizations or ED visits.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were utilized to identify qualified qualitative studies. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis were used for reporting the review. The thematic synthesis was used to analyze the data.

Results

Among 324 qualified studies, nine qualitative studies comprising 167 unique individual patients were selected based on the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Through the meta-synthesis, we identified the core theme, four major themes, and the corresponding subthemes. Poor disease management, the core theme, turns individuals at risk of ACSC hospitalizations or ED visits. The four major themes contribute to poor disease management, including difficulties in approaching health services, non-compliance with medications, difficulties in managing the disease at home, and poor relationships with providers. Each major theme comprised 2–4 subthemes. The most cited subthemes are relative to upstream social determinants, such as financial constraints, inaccessible health care, low health literacy, psychosocial or cognitive constraints.

Conclusion

Without addressing upstream social determinants, socially vulnerable patients are unlikely to manage their disease well at home even though they know how to do it and are willing to do it.

Trial registration

National Library of Medicine, with ClinicalTrials.gov, Identifier: NCT05456906. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05456906.
Socioeconomic inequalities in health-related fitness gradient shifts between 2001 and 2022 in young Polish adults
Authors: Domaradzki Jarosław , Koźlenia Dawid , Kochan-Jacheć Katarzyna , Szkudlarek Paweł , Fugiel Jarosław
Published: May 2023

Background

This study aimed to assess the importance of socioeconomic status (SES) on health-related fitness (H-RF) measurements in young adults and determine the impact of SES over 20 years of substantial social and economic changes in Poland.

Material and methods

The study compared H-RF differences between 2001 (P1) and 2022 (P2) in 252 volunteers aged 18 to 28 years who were grouped into quartiles based on SES and gender. The variables measured included height, weight, body mass index, body fat mass, hand strength (hand grip), abdomen strength (sit-ups), flexibility (sit and reach), and leg power (standing long jump), with a synthetic motor performance index (MPSI) calculated for each participant.

Results

Health-related differences based on social inequalities included body fat mass and MPSI, and two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed an interaction between SES and period on motor performance (F = 2.73, p = 0.045). In addition, post-hoc tests revealed differences in P1 between SES quartiles one and two (p = 0.028). Over the last 20 years, physical fitness decreased and body fat increased. The regression slope showed decreased motor performance with higher amounts of body fat in P2 subjects compared to their P1 peers.

Conclusion

The observed trends may be associated with lifestyle changes shaped by technology development, high-energy and low-quality food access, and increased physical inactivity.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on chlamydia infection in South Korea: a comparison between the pre-pandemic and during-pandemic periods
Authors: Chiara Achangwa , Ryu Sukhyun , Jung Jae-Heon , Hwang Se-Min
Published: May 2023

Background

Prior to COVID-19 pandemic, a yearly upward trajectory in the number of chlamydia infection cases was observed in South Korea. However, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Korea implemented several public health and social measures, which were shown to have an impact on the epidemiology of other infectious diseases. This study aimed to estimate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence and number of reported chlamydia infections in South Korea.

Methods

Using the monthly number of reported chlamydia infection data between 2017 and 2022, we compared the trends in the reported numbers, and the incidence rates (IR) of chlamydia infection stratified by demographic characteristics (sex, age group, and region) in the pre- and during COVID-19 pandemic period (January 2017–December 2019 and January 2020–December 2022).

Results

We observed an irregular downward trajectory in the number of chlamydia infection in the during-pandemic period. A 30% decrease in the total number of chlamydia infection was estimated in the during-pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period, with the decrease greater among males (35%) than females (25%). In addition, there was a decrease in the cumulative incidence rate of the during COVID-19 pandemic period (IR: 0.43; 95% CI: 0.42–0.44) compared to the pre-pandemic period (IR: 0.60; 95% CI: 0.59–0.61).

Conclusions

We identified decrease in the number of chlamydia infection during COVID-19 pandemic which is likely due to underdiagnosis and underreporting for the infection. Therefore, strengthening surveillance for sexually transmitted infections including chlamydia is warranted for an effective and timely response in case of an unexpected rebound in the number of the infections.
The Vietnamese version of the Home Falls and Accidents Screening Tool (HOME FAST) - A preliminary study of validity and inter-rater reliability
Authors: Mackenzie Lynette , Le Van Thanh , Nguyen Doan Mai Ngoc , Dao Thy Hoang Phuong
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The Vietnamese Home Falls and Accidents Screening Tool (HOME FAST) was developed to measure the number of home hazards present in the homes of older Vietnamese people and the risk of falls.

Methods

The HOME FAST and the HOME FAST manual were translated into Vietnamese by an independent translator and underwent backward translation by local health professionals into English to evaluate the accuracy of the translation. A panel of 14 Vietnamese health professionals evaluated the validity of the HOME FAST translation and rated the clarity and cultural relevance of each item. Ratings were evaluated using the content validity index (CVI). Reliability in ratings of the HOME FAST was evaluated using intra-class correlations (ICC), and ratings took place within the homes of two older Vietnamese people by six assessors.

Results

In all, 22 out of 25 Vietnamese HOME FAST items were considered to have met content validity standards using the CVI. The ICC for home visit one was 0.94 (95% CI 0.87–0.97) and for home visit two was ICC 0.95 (95% CI 0.91–0.98) indicating high reliability.

Discussion and conclusion

Bathroom items showed the most inconsistency in ratings indicating cultural differences in bathing activities. Descriptors of HOME FAST items will be reviewed for use in Vietnam to account for cultural and environmental differences. A larger pilot study is planned with older people living in the community in Vietnam to include calendar ascertainment of falls to determine if home hazards are associated with falling.
Increase in driving after cocaine use in Spain: a cross-sectional dataset analysis for 2021
Authors: García-Mingo Mercedes , Martín-Fernández Marta , Gutiérrez-Abejón Eduardo , Álvarez F. Javier
Published: May 2023

Objective

Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs impairs skills essential for safe driving, increases the risk of being involved in a traffic accident and is particularly prevalent in Spain. The aim is to assess the prevalence of positive substance driving cases, what factors may be associated with driving after substance use, and the evolution of the progress in the prevalence of drug use among drivers in drivers based on the 2008, 2013, 2018, and 2021 studies.

Study design and setting

The present study was conducted in a representative sample of Spanish drivers in 2021 for alcohol (breath) and psychoactive substances [oral fluid (OF)]. The sample size was 2980 drivers, mostly males (76.5%) with a mean age of 41.35 ± 13.34 years.

Results

In 2021, 9.3% of drivers tested positive for alcohol and/or drugs. The presence of alcohol alone was observed in 4.2% of drivers, alcohol and another substance in 0.3%, a single drug in 4.4%, and two or drugs other than alcohol in 0.4%. Overall, cocaine cases were the highest registered in 2021 (2.4%), while cannabis (1.9%) and polydrug cases (0.7%) were the lowest, with respect to the 2008/2013/2018 studies.

Conclusions

According to our research, in 2021, 9 out of 100 drivers were detected to have some substance in their system. This prevalence remains unacceptably high in Spain, with a marked increase in the frequency of driving after cocaine use. Further interventions and measures must be taken to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Application of Yarrowia lipolytica in fermented beverages
Authors: Sørensen Anders Bagger , Harholt Jesper , Arneborg Nils
Published: May 2023

Yarrowia lipolytica is a non-conventional non-pathogenic, generally regarded as safe yeast. It has been isolated from a wide variety of places, from foodstuffs like beer, cheese and sausages to beetle guts and human mouths. It is strictly aerobic and Crabtree-negative. Y. lipolytica harbours various biochemical and physiological traits that make it relevant for biotechnological and food-related applications. Until recently, the application and effect of Y. lipolytica on lipid-containing foodstuff, that is, meat and dairy, have been researched and discussed meticulously. The yeasts’ potential as a synthesiser of several high-value food ingredients, such as organic acids, aromas, and emulsifiers from a range of diverse substrates, from ethanol to olive oil waste, is of interest in a biorefinery context. Interestingly the use of Y. lipolytica as a starter culture in foodstuffs beyond meat and dairy is minimal, despite its ability to synthesise interesting aromas and organic acids that could increase the organoleptic quality of fermented beverages. Besides the indulgence factor, Y. lipolytica synthesises a wide range of functional and bioactive compounds that can act as active ingredients in functional beverages, adding to its potential in producing novel beverages.
Opinion of surveyed nurses on transplantation and reasons for negative public attitudes toward organ donation
Authors: Majchrowicz Bożena , Tomaszewska Katarzyna , Guzak Beata
Published: May 2023

Organ transplantation saves thousands of lives every year. Despite growing awareness of transplantation, the issue of obtaining organs for transplantation has been controversial for years. Hundreds of people are waiting in lines all the time for transplantation, for whom it is the only hope for a cure. One extremely important factor contributing to the low number of transplants is the low number of organ donations from deceased donors. Nurses are considered key facilitators of the organ procurement and transplantation process. Their knowledge of and attitudes toward organ donation can influence public opinion, as well as the decisions of their families to donate the organs of the deceased. The purpose of our study was to determine the opinions of surveyed nurses about transplantation and the reasons for negative public attitudes toward organ donation. The survey included 793 nurses employed in surgical wards across Poland with varying levels of job seniority. The survey was conducted between September and October 2022. The research tool was a survey questionnaire, consisting of three parts: socio-demographic data, questions assessing the respondents' knowledge of behavior about transplantation, and a non-standardized tool to measure respondents' emotional and motivational attitudes toward transplantation. Participation in the survey was anonymous and voluntary. The statistical analysis for independence of variables used the χ2 test. On the other hand, coefficients based on the Phi and Cramer's V test, as well as Kruskal Wallis non-parametric tests for assessing differences (for more than 2 samples) were used to determine the strength of the relationship. During these analyses, in addition to standard statistical significance, the corresponding “p” values were calculated using the Monte Carlo method. According to the nurses surveyed, transplantation is a life-saving procedure. A significant proportion of the nurses (85.6%) believe that there are too few donors in Poland. According to 41.8% of the respondents, this is due to the fear of misdiagnosis of death, for 23.4% it is incompatible with their worldview or religion and 31.8% believe it is due to the belief in the inviolability of the human body after death. The survey showed that, in the nurses' opinion, the reason for objections to organ transplantation is the deficit in public's knowledge of cell, tissue and organ donation from both living and dead donors. Therefore it is extremely important to conduct educational campaigns in this regard.
High Eddington quasars as discovery tools: current state and challenges
Authors: Panda Swayamtrupta , Marziani Paola
Published: May 2023

A landmark of accretion processes in active galactic nuclei (AGN) is the continuum originating from a complex structure, i.e., an accretion disk and a corona around a supermassive black hole. Modelling the broad-band spectral energy distribution (SED) effectively ionizing the gas-rich broad emission line region (BLR) is key to understanding the various radiative processes at play and their importance that eventually leads to the emission from diverse physical conditions. Photoionization codes are a useful tool to investigate two aspects, the importance of the shape of the spectral energy distribution, and the physical conditions in the broad emission line region. In this work, we critically review long-standing issues pertaining to the spectral energy distribution shape and the anisotropic continuum radiation from the central regions around the accreting supermassive black holes (few 10–100 gravitational radii), with a focus on black holes accreting at high rates, possibly much above the Eddington limit. The anisotropic emission is a direct consequence of the development of a geometrically and optically thick structure at regions very close to the black hole due to a marked increase in the accretion rates. The analysis presented in this paper took advantage of the look at the diversity of the type-1 active galactic nuclei provided by the main sequence of quasars. The main sequence permitted us to assess the importance of the Eddington ratio and hence to locate the super Eddington sources in observational parameter space, as well as to constrain the distinctive physical conditions of their line-emitting BLR. This feat is posing the basis for the exploitation of quasars as cosmological distance indicators, hopefully allowing us to use the fascinating super Eddington quasars up to unprecedented distances.
Intraparenchymal cerebellar capillary hemangioma in a 32-year-old man: a case report
Authors: Wardhana Dewa Putu Wisnu , Awyono Steven , Lauren Christopher , Muhammad Rosyidi Rohadi , Saputra Herman
Published: May 2023

The authors present an unusual case of a 32-year-old adult male with a capillary hemangioma, which developed within the left cerebellar parenchyma. The histopathological examination reveals a mass mostly formed by the proliferation of capillaries, lined by a layer of flat-plump endothelial cells, some branching and dilating large capillaries, forming a lobulated structure separated by fibrocollagenous connective tissue. Immunohistochemistry examination with CD31 and S100 was positive on the endothelial and stromal cells, respectively, and negative S100 on the endothelial cells. Although rare, capillary hemangioma should be one of the differential diagnoses for diagnosing intra-axial lesions in the cerebellar region. Confirmation of the histopathological characteristic is necessary to determine the diagnosis of capillary hemangioma and exclude other differential diagnoses.
Incidence and risk factors of postoperative acute pancreatitis after pancreaticoduodenectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Zhouyu , Zong Kezhen , Zhou Baoyong , Yin Kunli , Zhang Anlan , Li Ming
Published: May 2023

Background

Postoperative acute pancreatitis (POAP) is a specific complication after pancreatectomy. The acute inflammatory response of the residual pancreas may affect the healing of pancreatoenteric anastomoses, leading to postoperative pancreatic fistulas (POPFs), abdominal infections, and even progressive systemic reactions, conditions that negatively affect patients' prognoses and can cause death. However, to the best of our knowledge, no systematic reviews or meta-analytic studies have assessed the incidence and risk factors of POAP after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD).

Method

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases for relevant literature describing the outcomes of POAP after PD until November 25, 2022, and we used the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale to assess the quality of the studies. Next, we pooled the incidence of POAP and the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the risk factors using a random-effect meta-analysis. I2 tests were used to assess heterogeneity between the studies.

Results

We analyzed data from 7,164 patients after PD from 23 articles that met the inclusion criteria for this study. The subgroup results of the meta-analysis by different POAP diagnostic criteria showed that the incidences of POAP were 15% (95% CI, 5–38) in the International Study Group for Pancreatic Surgery group, 51% (95% CI, 42–60) in the Connor group, 7% (95% CI, 2–24) in the Atlanta group, and 5% (95% CI, 2–14) in the unclear group. Being a woman [OR (1.37, 95% CI, 1.06–1.77)] or having a soft pancreatic texture [OR (2.56, 95% CI, 1.70–3.86)] were risk factors of POAP after PD.

Conclusion

The results showed that POAP was common after PD, and its incidence varied widely according to different definitions. Large-scale reports are still needed, and surgeons should remain aware of this complication.

Systematic Review Registration

identifier: CRD42022375124.
Rabies virus in white-nosed coatis (Nasua narica) in Mexico: what do we know so far?
Authors: Puebla-Rodríguez Paola , Almazán-Marín Cenia , Garcés-Ayala Fabiola , Rendón-Franco Emilio , Chávez-López Susana , Gómez-Sierra Mauricio , Sandoval-Borja Albert , Martínez-Solís David , Escamilla-Ríos Beatriz , Sauri-González Isaías , Alonzo-Góngora Adriana , López-Martínez Irma , Aréchiga-Ceballos Nidia
Published: May 2023

Rabies is a neglected disease that affects all mammals. To determine the appropriate sanitary measures, the schedule of preventive medicine campaigns requires the proper identification of the variants of the virus circulating in the outbreaks, the species involved, and the interspecific and intraspecific virus movements. Urban rabies has been eradicated in developed countries and is being eradicated in some developing countries. In Europe and North America, oral vaccination programs for wildlife have been successful, whereas in Latin America, Asia, and Africa, rabies remains a public health problem due to the habitation of a wide variety of wild animal species that can act as rabies virus reservoirs in their environment. After obtaining recognition from the WHO/PAHO as the first country to eliminate human rabies transmitted by dogs, Mexico faces a new challenge: the control of rabies transmitted by wildlife to humans and domestic animals. In recent years, rabies outbreaks in the white-nosed coati (Nasua narica) have been detected, and it is suspected that the species plays a significant role in maintaining the wild cycle of rabies in the southeast of Mexico. In this study, we discussed cases of rabies in white-nosed coatis that were diagnosed at InDRE (in English: Institute of Epidemiological Diagnosis and Reference; in Spanish: Instituto de Diagnostico y Referencia Epidemiologicos) from 1993 to 2022. This study aimed to determine whether white-nosed coatis might be an emergent rabies reservoir in the country. A total of 13 samples were registered in the database from the Rabies laboratories of Estado de Mexico (n= 1), Jalisco (n= 1), Quintana Roo (n= 5), Sonora (n= 1), and Yucatan (n= 5). Samples from 1993 to 2002 from Estado de Mexico, Jalisco, and Sonora were not characterized because we no longer had any samples available. Nine samples were antigenically and genetically characterized. To date, coatis have not been considered important vectors of the rabies virus. The results from our research indicate that the surveillance of the rabies virus in coatis should be relevant to prevent human cases transmitted by this species.
A recent distemper virus outbreak in the growing canine populations of Galapagos Islands: a persistent threat for the endangered Galapagos Sea Lion
Authors: Vega-Mariño Patricio , Olson Jessie , Howitt Ben , Criollo Rita , Figueroa Lissette , Orlando Solon Alberto , Cruz Marilyn , Garcia-Bereguiain Miguel Angel
Published: May 2023

Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) is a highly contagious virus that can cross mammalian species barriers and has widespread impacts on both domestic animals and wildlife populations. This study describes a recent outbreak of CDV in the Galapagos Islands in 2019. A total number of 125 dogs with clinical signs compatible with CDV were included in this study. Nasal swabs were taken and analyzed by RT-qPCR for the detection of CDV, resulting in a positivity rate of 74.4% (IC95%, 66–81%). Among the CDV positive dogs, 82.2% presented with respiratory signs, 48.8% neurological signs, and 28.9% gastrointestinal signs. CDV has been previously reported in the domestic canine population of the Galapagos Islands in 2001 and 2004. The current study shows how CDV is still a threat for the endemic and endangered Galapagos sea lion, despite recent policies for dog population control and CDV vaccination.
Assessment of accredited veterinary diagnostic laboratory use of breakpoints for canine and feline Escherichia coli infections in the United States and Canada
Authors: Durr Brandon J. , Ballard Larry D. , Knight Angela D. , Seo Keun-Seok , Langston Vernon C. , Thompson Alexis C. , Shivley Jacob M. , Brookshire W. Cooper
Published: May 2023

The objective of this study was to assess the use of breakpoints in antibiotic susceptibility testing among veterinary diagnostic laboratories in the United States and Canada. An eight-question survey was conducted via phone and email to determine how often laboratories use breakpoints consistent with published guidelines in wounds, lower urinary tract infections and upper urinary tract infections (pyelonephritis) involving Escherichia coli, both in dogs and cats, for a total of 6 different hypothetical clinical scenarios. Nineteen veterinary diagnostic laboratories that perform antibiotic susceptibility testing on samples from dogs and cats in the United States or Canada and were accredited by the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (AAVLD) responded to the survey between January 15th and September 15th, 2022. The overall response rate of laboratories that were not excluded for known lack of dog and cat antibiotic susceptibility testing was 19 of 44 laboratories. Of the 17 respondent laboratories that reported using minimal inhibitory concentration breakpoints, only four laboratories used breakpoints consistent with published guidelines in all six clinical scenarios included in the survey. Our results suggest that there is clinically important variation in what breakpoints laboratories use to determine antibiotic susceptibility, which is of antibiotic stewardship and clinical relevance. Using breakpoints that are too high, too low, or inappropriately reporting “not interpreted” as the interpretive category may result in inappropriate use of antibiotics.
Risk factors for atrial fibrillation in dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Guglielmini Carlo , Valente Carlotta , Romito Giovanni , Mazzoldi Chiara , Baron Toaldo Marco , Goncalves Sousa Marlos , Wolf Marcela , Beluque Tamyris , Domenech Oriol , Patata Valentina , Porciello Francesco , Ferrari Paolo , Caivano Domenico , Contiero Barbara , Poser Helen
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation secondary to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) frequently affects large-breed dogs. The aim of the present study was to identify risk factors for the development of atrial fibrillation in dogs of different breeds with an echocardiographic diagnosis of DCM.

Methods

In this multicenter retrospective study, we searched the electronic databases of five cardiology referral centers for dogs with an echocardiographic diagnosis of DCM. A comparison of clinical and echocardiographic variables was performed between dogs developing atrial fibrillation and those not developing atrial fibrillation and the ability to distinguish between these two groups of dogs was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis estimated the odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) of developing atrial fibrillation.

Results

We included 89 client-owned dogs with occult and overt echocardiographic DCM. Of these, 39 dogs (43.8%) had atrial fibrillation, 29 dogs (32.6%) maintained a sinus rhythm, and 21 dogs (23.6%) showed other cardiac arrhythmias. Left atrial diameter had high accuracy (area under the curve = 0.816, 95% CI = 0.719–0.890) to predict the development of atrial fibrillation at the cut-off of >4.66 cm. After multivariable stepwise logistic regression analysis, only increased left atrial diameter (OR = 3.58, 95% CI = 1.87–6.87; p < 0.001) and presence of right atrial enlargement (OR = 4.02, 95% CI = 1.35–11.97; p = 0.013) were significant predictors of atrial fibrillation development.

Discussion

Atrial fibrillation is a common complication of DCM in the dog and is significantly associated with increased absolute left atrial diameter and right atrial enlargement.
Effect of Low Temperature on Photosynthetic Physiological Activity of Different Photoperiod Types of Strawberry Seedlings and Stress Diagnosis
Authors: Jiang Nan , Yang Zaiqiang , Zhang Hanqi , Xu Jiaqing , Li Chunying
Published: May 2023

During the early growth stage of plants, low temperatures can alter cell permeability, reduce photosynthetic capacity, and have adverse effects on crop growth, development, and yield. Different strawberry cultivars have varying cold tolerance. In this study, we investigated the changes in cell permeability and photosynthetic activity of short-day and long-day types of strawberry cultivars under varying degrees of low-temperature stress, and evaluated the extent of cellular damage using photosynthetic and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters. The experiment utilized short-day strawberry cultivars ‘Toyonoka’ and ‘Red Face’, and long-day strawberry cultivars ‘Selva’ and ‘Sweet Charlie’ seedlings. Low-temperature treatments were set at −20, −15, −10, −5, 0, 5, and 10 °C for 12 h. The research demonstrated that short-day strawberries had greater tolerance to low temperatures, and all four strawberry cultivars began to experience low-temperature stress when the temperature was below 5 °C. A temperature range of 0 to −10 °C played a crucial role in causing severe cold damage to the strawberries. The low-temperature stress levels were constructed based on electrolyte leakage, with photosynthetic physiological characteristics serving as references. The study proves that the photosynthetic and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters can serve as effective probes for diagnosing low-temperature stress in strawberry seedlings, and their combination provides higher accuracy in identifying stress levels than any single type of parameter.
Evaluation of the Development Process of Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and Winter Pea (Pisum sativum L.) in Intercropping by Yield Components
Authors: Vályi-Nagy Marianna , Rácz Attila , Irmes Katalin , Szentpéteri Lajos , Tar Melinda , Kassai Katalin Mária , Kristó István
Published: May 2023

The future of wheat production depends on our ability to adapt to changing growing conditions. It is expected that intercropping will be more emphasized where natural source of nitrogen may increase the resilience of cereals. Our investigation was made in two growing seasons (2020–2021, 2021–2022) with three winter wheat varieties (GK Szilárd, Cellule, GK Csillag) and a winter pea variety (Aviron) in Szeged-Öthalom. Each plot was 10 square meters in four repeats in randomized block design. We used a seed mixture of both species with three sowing densities. In this study, we represent a development process of two winter-sown species, then yield components evaluated by cumulative yield production analysis and multivariate regression. Mixtures were only beneficial for wheat in the case of GK Szilárd 50% and Aviron 75%, Cellule 75% and Aviron 100% (in 2021), Cellule 100% and Aviron 50% (in 2022), GK Csillag 75% and Aviron 50%. The yield was determined by the number and weight of grains in both species (and also number of pea pods). Knowledge of the development process of the companion plants is a key issue in creating an effective intercrop. This self-sustaining, low input and energy efficient cropping practice has a great potential in temperate areas.
Genome-Wide Analysis of the HD-Zip Gene Family in Chinese Cabbage (Brassica rapa subsp. pekinensis) and the Expression Pattern at High Temperatures and in Carotenoids Regulation
Authors: Yin Lian , Sun Yudong , Chen Xuehao , Liu Jiexia , Feng Kai , Luo Dexu , Sun Manyi , Wang Linchuang , Xu Wenzhao , Liu Lu , Zhao Jianfeng
Published: May 2023

HD-Zip, a special class of transcription factors in high plants, has a role in plant development and responding to external environmental stress. Heat stress has always been an important factor affecting plant growth, quality, and yield. Carotenoid content is also an important factor affecting the color of the inner leaf blades of Chinese cabbage. In this study, the genomes of three Brassicaceae plants were selected: Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa subsp. pekinensis), Brassica oleracea, and Brassica napus. We identified 93, 96, and 184 HD-Zip genes in the B. rapa, B. oleracea, and B. napus, respectively. The HD-Zip gene family was classified into four subfamilies based on phylogeny: I, II, III, and IV;. The results of cis-acting element analysis suggested that HD-Zip family genes may participate in various biological processes, such as pigment synthesis, cell cycle regulation, defense stress response, etc. Conserved motifs prediction revealed that three motifs exist among the four HD-Zip gene families and that different motifs exhibit significant effects on the structural differences in HD-Zips. Synteny, Ks, and 4DTv results displayed that genome-wide triplication events act in HD-Zip gene family expansion. Transcriptome data showed that 18 genes responded (>1.5-fold change) to heat stress in Chinese cabbage, and 14 of 18 genes were from the HD-Zip I subfamily. Three genes had up-regulation, and eight genes had down-regulation in high-carotenoid-content Chinese cabbage. The BraA09g011460.3C expression level was up-regulated after heat stress treatment and significantly reduced in varieties with high carotenoid content, indicating its potential for heat stress tolerance and carotenoid content regulation. This study provided important gene resources for the subsequent breeding of Chinese cabbage.