bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics and drivers of plant C, N, and P stoichiometry in Northern Tibetan Plateau grassland
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhao Jiamin , Xing Zhen , Wang Xiangtao
Published: April 2023

Understanding vegetation C, N, and P stoichiometry helps us not only to evaluate biogeochemical cycles and ecosystem functions but also to predict the potential impact of environmental change on ecosystem processes. The foliar C, N, and P stoichiometry in Northern Tibetan grasslands, especially the controlling factors, has been highlighted in recent years. In this study, we have collected 340 plant samples and 162 soil samples from 54 plots in three grassland types, with the purpose of evaluating the foliar C, N, and P stoichiometry and underlying control factors in three grassland types along a 1,500-km east-to-west transect in the Northern Tibetan Plateau. Our results indicated that the averaged foliar C, N, and P concentrations were 425.9 ± 15.8, 403.4 ± 22.2, and 420.7 ± 30.7 g kg−1; 21.7 ± 2.9, 19.0 ± 2.3, and 21.7 ± 5.2 g kg−1; and 1.71 ± 0.29, 1.19 ± 0.16, and 1.59 ± 0.6 g kg−1 in the alpine meadow (AM), alpine steppe (AS), and desert steppe (DS) ecosystems, respectively. The foliar C and N ratios were comparable, with values of 19.8 ± 2.8, 20.6 ± 1.9, and 19.9 ± 5.8 in the AM, AS, and DS ecosystems, respectively. Both the C/P and N/P ratios are the lowest in the AM ecosystem, with values of 252.2 ± 32.6 and 12.8 ± 1.3, respectively, whereas the highest values of 347.3 ± 57.0 and 16.2 ± 3.2 were obtained in the AS ecosystem. In contrast, the soil C, N, C/P, and N/P values decreased from the AM to DS ecosystem. Across the whole transects, leaf C, N, and P stoichiometry showed no obvious trend, but soil C and N concentrations showed an increasing trend, and soil P concentrations showed a decreasing trend with the increasing longitude. Based on the general linear model analysis, the vegetation type was the dominant factor controlling the leaf C, N, and P stoichiometry, accounting for 42.8% for leaf C, 45.1% for leaf N, 35.2% for leaf P, 52.9% for leaf C/N, 39.6% for leaf C/P, and 48.0% for leaf N/P; the soil nutrients and climate have relatively low importance. In conclusion, our results supported that vegetation type, rather than climatic variation and soil nutrients, are the major determinants of north Tibet grassland leaf stoichiometry.
Understanding the mode of action of AgroGain®, a biostimulant derived from the red seaweed Kappaphycus alvarezii in the stimulation of cotyledon expansion and growth of Cucumis sativa (cucumber)
Authors: Shukla Pushp Sheel , Nivetha Nagarajan , Nori Sri Sailaja , Bose Debayan , Kumar Sawan , Khandelwal Sachin , Critchley Alan , Suryanarayan Shrikumar
Published: April 2023

Seaweed-based biostimulants are sustainable agriculture inputs that are known to have a multitude of beneficial effects on plant growth and productivity. This study demonstrates that Agrogain® (Product code: LBS6), a Kappaphycus alvarezii-derived biostimulant induced the expansion of cucumber cotyledons. Seven days treatment of LBS6-supplementation showed a 29.2% increase in area of expanded cotyledons, as compared to the control. LBS6-treated cotyledons also showed higher amylase activity, suggesting starch to sucrose conversion was used efficiently as an energy source during expansion. To understand the mechanisms of LBS6-induced expansion, real time gene expression analysis was carried out. This revealed that LBS6-treated cotyledons differentially modulated the expression of genes involved in cell division, cell number, cell expansion and cell size. LBS6 treatment also differentially regulated the expression of those genes involved in auxin and cytokinin metabolism. Further, foliar application of LBS6 on cucumber plants being grown under hydroponic conditions showed improved plant growth as compared to the control. The total leaf area of LBS6-sprayed plants increased by 19.1%, as compared to control. LBS6-sprayed plants efficiently regulated photosynthetic quenching by reducing loss via non-photochemical and non-regulatory quenching. LBS6 applications also modulated changes in the steady-state photosynthetic parameters of the cucumber leaves. It was demonstrated that LBS6 treatment modulated the electron and proton transport related pathways which help plants to efficiently utilize the photosynthetic radiation for optimal growth. These results provide clear evidence that bioactive compounds present in LBS6 improved the growth of cucumber plants by regulating the physiological as well as developmental pathways.
Reviewing and renewing the use of beneficial root and soil bacteria for plant growth and sustainability in nutrient-poor, arid soils
Authors: Khan Noor , Humm Ethan A. , Jayakarunakaran Akshaya , Hirsch Ann M.
Published: April 2023

A rapidly increasing human population coupled with climate change and several decades of over-reliance on synthetic fertilizers has led to two pressing global challenges: food insecurity and land degradation. Therefore, it is crucial that practices enabling both soil and plant health as well as sustainability be even more actively pursued. Sustainability and soil fertility encompass practices such as improving plant productivity in poor and arid soils, maintaining soil health, and minimizing harmful impacts on ecosystems brought about by poor soil management, including run-off of agricultural chemicals and other contaminants into waterways. Plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) can improve food production in numerous ways: by facilitating resource acquisition of macro- and micronutrients (especially N and P), modulating phytohormone levels, antagonizing pathogenic agents and maintaining soil fertility. The PGPB comprise different functional and taxonomic groups of bacteria belonging to multiple phyla, including Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Actinobacteria, among others. This review summarizes many of the mechanisms and methods these beneficial soil bacteria use to promote plant health and asks whether they can be further developed into effective, potentially commercially available plant stimulants that substantially reduce or replace various harmful practices involved in food production and ecosystem stability. Our goal is to describe the various mechanisms involved in beneficial plant-microbe interactions and how they can help us attain sustainability.
Paradoxical leadership, team adaptation and team performance: The mediating role of inclusive climate
Authors: Meng Weixuan , Xu Zhihao , Abuliezi Zulayati , Lyu Yaohui , Zhang Qi
Published: April 2023

In an increasingly complex and changing competitive environment, organizations inevitably face various conflicting demands, such as the contradiction between the psychological needs of employees and the organization’s performance requirements. Paradoxical leadership could focus on these competing needs of the organization and employees in multiple ways simultaneously. According to the trickle-down effect of social learning theory, we investigated whether and how paradoxical leadership may increase team adaptation and team performance. The study had a time-lagged survey design and included 254 team members and 60 leaders in 60 work teams in mainland China. The results of the structural equation modeling analysis indicated that paradoxical leadership is an essential predictor of team adaptation and performance, and that inclusive climate is mediating in this relationship. Our findings reveal a mechanism underlying the benefits of paradoxical leadership on team adaptation and team performance from a team-level perspective.
Tolerability profile of paliperidone palmitate formulations: A pharmacovigilance analysis of the EUDRAVigilance database
Authors: Cicala Giuseppe , de Filippis Renato , Barbieri Maria Antonietta , Cutroneo Paola Maria , De Fazio Pasquale , Schoretsanitis Georgios , Spina Edoardo
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Long-acting injectable antipsychotics (LAIs) have proven to be effective in the maintenance treatment of patients suffering from schizophrenia, and their safety and tolerability profiles represent a key factor in their long-term use and choice in clinical practice. Paliperidone palmitate (PP) is the only second-generation LAI (SGA-LAI), available in both one- (PP1M) and 3-month (PP3M) formulations. However, real-world prospective studies on PP1M and PP3M are still few and mostly conducted on small samples. In this context, we aimed to better define the safety and tolerability profile of PP using real world pharmacovigilance data.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the publicly available data regarding Individual Case Safety Reports (ICSRs), presenting PP1M and/or PP3M as suspected drugs, reported on EUDRAVigilance between 2011 and June 30th, 2022. ICSRs relative to at least one SGA-LAI other than PP, reported between 2003 and June 30th, 2022, were also examined as reference group. Data were evaluated with a descriptive analysis, and then, as disproportionality measures, crude reporting odds ratio (ROR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated.

Results

A total of 8,152 ICSRs met the inclusion criteria, of those 77.7% (n = 6,332) presented as suspected drug PP1M, 21.2% (n = 1,731) PP3M, while 89 cases indicated both PP1M and PP3M. Significantly higher probabilities of reporting in PP-related reports were observed for the primary Standardized MedDRA Queries “Sexual Dysfunctions” (ROR = 1.45; 95% CI 1.23-1.70), “Haemodynamic oedema, effusions and fluid overload” (ROR = 1.42; 1.18-1.70), as well as “Fertility disorders” (ROR = 2.69; 1.51-4.80).

Discussion

Our analysis indicates that the tolerability and safety profiles of PP are in line with what is known for the other SGA-LAIs. However, differences regarding endocrine system ADRs have been noticed. The results presented in this work do not discourage the prescription of SGA-LAI formulations but aim to enhance their safety.
Performance assessment of medical service for organ transplant department based on diagnosis-related groups: A programme incorporating ischemia-free liver transplantation in China
Authors: Lu Jianjun , Lin Zhuochen , Xiong Ying , Pang Hui , Zhang Ye , Xin Ziyi , Li Yuelin , Shen Zhiqing , Chen Wei , Zhang Wujun
Published: April 2023

Background

In July 2017, the first affiliated hospital of Sun Yat-sen university carried out the world’s first case of ischemia-free liver transplantation (IFLT). This study aimed to evaluate the performance of medical services pre- and post-IFLT implementation in the organ transplant department of this hospital based on diagnosis-related groups, so as to provide a data basis for the clinical practice of the organ transplant specialty.

Methods

The first pages of medical records of inpatients in the organ transplant department from 2016 to 2019 were collected. The China version Diagnosis-related groups (DRGs) were used as a risk adjustment tool to compare the income structure, service availability, service efficiency and service safety of the organ transplant department between the pre- and post-IFLT implementation periods.

Results

Income structure of the organ transplant department was more optimized in the post-IFLT period compared with that in the pre-IFLT period. Medical service performance parameters of the organ transplant department in the post-IFLT period were better than those in the pre-IFLT period. Specifically, case mix index values were 2.65 and 2.89 in the pre- and post-IFLT periods, respectively (p = 0.173). Proportions of organ transplantation cases were 14.16 and 18.27%, respectively (p < 0.001). Compared with that in the pre-IFLT period, the average postoperative hospital stay of liver transplants decreased by 11.40% (30.17 vs. 26.73 days, p = 0.006), and the average postoperative hospital stay of renal transplants decreased by 7.61% (25.23 vs.23.31 days, p = 0.092). Cost efficiency index decreased significantly compared with that in the pre-IFLT period (p < 0.001), while time efficiency index fluctuated around 0.83 in the pre- and post-IFLT periods (p = 0.725). Moreover, the average postoperative hospital stay of IFLT cases was significantly shorter than that of conventional liver transplant cases (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

The application of IFLT technology could contribute to improving the medical service performance of the organ transplant department. Meanwhile, the DRGs tool may help transplant departments to coordinate the future delivery planning of medical service.
Satisfaction with care quality and anxiety among family members during nursing home visiting restrictions: The chain mediating effect of emotional regulation and perceived stress
Authors: Hui Zhaozhao , Wang Xiaoqin , Wang Xun , Zhao Jinping , Pan Yunjin , Liu Feng , Zheng Ruishi , Wang Mingxu
Published: April 2023

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the psychological well-being (perceived stress and anxiety) of Chinese family members during nursing home visiting restrictions and to elucidate the relationships among satisfaction with care quality, emotion regulation, perceived stress, and anxiety.

Methods

An online survey was conducted with a cross-sectional study design. From 18 to 29 January 2022, a total of 571 family members of nursing home residents completed online questionnaires comprising socio-demographic characteristics, satisfaction with care quality, emotion regulation, perceived stress, and anxiety. Mediation analyses were performed to estimate the direct and indirect effects of satisfaction with care quality on anxiety using the PROCESS macro for SPSS.

Results

The results showed that approximately one-quarter of Chinese family members had anxiety symptoms during nursing home visiting restrictions. Satisfaction with care quality affected anxiety via three mediating paths: (a) through cognitive reappraisal (effect = 0.028); (b) through cognitive reappraisal and perceived stress sequentially (effect = −0.057); and (c) through perceived stress (effect = −0.212). The chain mediating effect (path b) accounted for 23.7% of the total effect.

Conclusions

These findings corroborated our hypothesis that cognitive reappraisal (a kind of emotion regulation strategy) and perceived stress mediated the relationship between satisfaction with care quality and anxiety during nursing home visiting restrictions. Efforts to address family members’ psychological well-being by focusing on cognitive reappraisal should be considered.
A reevaluation of selected mortality risks in the updated NCI/NIOSH acrylonitrile cohort study
Authors: Marsh Gary M. , Kruchten Adam
Published: April 2023

Objectives

The study aimed to determine whether the National Cancer Institute's (NCI) recent suggestion of associations between acrylonitrile (AN) exposure and mortality in lung and bladder cancer and pneumonitis is robust to alternative methods of data analysis.

Materials and methods

We used the Richardson method to indirectly adjust risk ratios (RRs) in relation to AN exposure for potential confounding by smoking and asbestos. We repeated key analyses omitting workers from Plant 4 to account for possible local, historical shipyard-related asbestos exposures.

Results

The adjustment of lung cancer RRs for confounding by both smoking and asbestos and omitting Plant 4 workers yielded mostly decreased RRs and much less evidence of a positive association with cumulative AN exposure.

Conclusion

Overall, our reanalysis provided little evidence to support NCI's suggestion of associations between AN exposure and mortality in lung and bladder cancer and pneumonitis.
Perspectives and evaluation on the effect of financial burden relief of medical insurance for people with catastrophic diseases and its influencing factors
Authors: Guo Pengfei , Qin Yinghua , Wang Rizhen , Li Jiacheng , Liu Jingjing , Wang Kexin , Li Ye , Kang Zheng , Hao Yanhua , Liu Huan , Sun Hong , Cui Yu , Shan Linghan , Wu Qunhong
Published: April 2023

Background

Catastrophic disease sufferers face a heavy financial burden and are more likely to fall victim to the “illness-poverty-illness” cycle. Deeper reform of the medical insurance system is urgently required to alleviate the financial burden of individuals with catastrophic diseases.

Methods

Data were obtained from a cross-sectional questionnaire survey conducted in Heilongjiang in 2021, and logistic regression and restricted cubic spline model was used to predict the core factors related to medical insurance that alleviate the financial burden of people with catastrophic diseases.

Results

Overall, 997 (50.92%) medical insurance-related professionals negatively viewed financial burden relief for people with catastrophic diseases. Factors influencing its effectiveness in relieving the financial burden were: whether or not effective control of omissions from medical insurance coverage (OR = 4.04), fund supervision (OR = 2.47) and degree of participation of stakeholders (OR = 1.91). Besides, the reimbursement standards and the regional and population benefit package gap also played a role. The likelihood of financial burden relief increased by 21 percentage points for each unit increase in the level of stakeholder discourse power in reform.

Conclusion

China’s current medical insurance policies have not yet fully addressed the needs of vulnerable populations, especially the need to reduce their financial burden continuously. Future reform should focus on addressing core issues by reducing the uninsured, enhancing the width and depth of medical insurance coverage, improving the level and capacity of medical insurance governance that provides more discourse power for the vulnerable population, and building a more responsive and participatory medical insurance governance system.
C-reactive protein to lymphocyte ratio is a significant predictive factor for poor short-term clinical outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 BA.2.2 patients
Authors: Xiao Benjie , Wu Yinyan , Liang Huazheng , Xiao Jingjing , Han Yudi , Yang Zhangwei , Bi Yong
Published: April 2023

Objective

The aim of the present study is to assess the utility of C-reactive protein to Lymphocyte Ratio (CLR) in predicting short-term clinical outcomes of patients infected by SARS-CoV-2 BA.2.2.

Methods

This retrospective study was performed on 1,219 patients with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 BA.2.2 to determine the association of CLR with short-term clinical outcomes. Independent Chi square test, Rank sum test, and binary logistic regression analysis were performed to calculate mean differences and adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with their 95% CI, respectively.

Results

Over 8% of patients admitted due to SARS-CoV-2 BA.2.2. were critically ill. The best cut-off value of CLR was 21.25 in the ROC with a sensitivity of 72.3% and a specificity of 86%. After adjusting age, gender, and comorbidities, binary logistic regression analysis showed that elevated CLR was an independent risk factor for poor short-term clinical outcomes of COVID-19 patients.

Conclusion

C-reactive protein to Lymphocyte Ratio is a significant predictive factor for poor short-term clinical outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 BA.2.2 inflicted patients.
Behavioral mechanism of transfer and dispersal of Propylaea japonica in cotton adjacent to sorghum fields
Authors: Cui Hongying , Li Lili , Song Yingying , Guo Wenxiu , Lv Suhong , Yu Yi , Men Xingyuan
Published: April 2023

Increasing crop biodiversity, such as by adjacent managed crops, is recognized as an effective biological control measure. However, few studies have focused on the mechanisms involved in how adjacent managed crops increase natural enemy populations, leading to reduced pest numbers. This study investigated the hypothesis that cotton grown adjacent to sorghum would positively influence the feeding and oviposition preferences of the ladybug Propylaea japonica, which predates cotton aphids, leading to enhanced pest control. The populations of Aphis gossypii were significantly lower and those of P. japonica were significantly higher in cotton grown adjacent to sorghum compared with monoculture cotton fields. Regardless of diet on which the larva of P. japonica were reared (Melanaphis sacchari, A. gossypii, and 50% M. sacchari + 50% A. gossypii), the adults always consumed significantly more M. sacchari compared with A. gossypii. P. japonica also showed significantly higher feeding and oviposition preferences for host plants bearing aphids to only host plants. P. japonica fed M. sacchari preferred to lay eggs on cotton, whereas those fed A. gossypii preferred to lay eggs on sorghum. These results suggest that the habitat of natural enemies can be expanded by influencing their feeding and oviposition preferences to achieve pest control in adjacent cropping systems. This research, which incorporates field and laboratory studies, suggests an approach for the successful conservation and biological control of cotton aphids using adjacent managed cotton and sorghum crops.
Mercury Content and Pools in Complex Polycyclic Soils From a Mountainous Area in Galicia (NW Iberian Peninsula)
Authors: Gómez-Armesto Antía , Méndez-López Melissa , Parente-Sendín Andrea , Calvo-Portela Noemi , Pontevedra-Pombal Xabier , García-Rodeja Eduardo , Alonso-Vega Flora , Nóvoa-Muñoz Juan Carlos
Published: April 2023

Atmospheric mercury (Hg) usually tends to accumulate in the upper horizons of soils. However, the physico-chemical characteristics of some soils, as well as pedogenetic processes, past climate changes, or soil degradation processes, can lead to a redistribution of mercury through the soil profile. In this work, the presence and accumulation of mercury was studied in three deep polycyclic soils from a mountainous area in NW Iberia Peninsula. The highest total Hg values (HgT) were found in the organic matter-rich O and A horizons of FL and MF profiles (169 and 139 μg kg−1, respectively) and in the illuvial horizon of RV (129.2 μg kg−1), with the latter two samples showing the maximum Hg reservoirs (29.3 and 29.0 mg m−2, respectively). Despite finding the highest Hg content in the surface horizons, considerable Hg reservoirs were also observed in depths higher than 40–50 cm, indicating the importance of taking into account these soil layers when Hg pools are evaluated at a global scale. Based on the mass transfer coefficients, we can rule out the contribution of parent material to the Hg accumulation in most of the horizons, thus indicating that pedogenetic processes are responsible for the Hg redistribution observed along the soil profiles. Finally, by means of principal component analysis (PCA) and stepwise linear regression we could assess the main soil components involved in the Hg accumulation in each soil horizon. Therefore, PC1 (organic matter and low stability Al-hummus complexes) showed a higher influence on the surface horizons, whereas PC2 (reactive Al-Fe complexes and medium-high Al-hummus complexes) and PC4 (crystalline Fe compounds and pHw) were more relevant in the Hg distribution observed in the deepest soil layers.
Model of Lexico-Semantic Bonds between Texts for Creating Their Similarity Metrics and Developing Statistical Clustering Algorithm
Authors: Demidova Liliya , Zhukov Dmitry , Andrianova Elena , Kalinin Vladimir
Published: April 2023

To solve the problem of text clustering according to semantic groups, we suggest using a model of a unified lexico-semantic bond between texts and a similarity matrix based on it. Using lexico-semantic analysis methods, we can create “term–document” matrices based both on the occurrence frequencies of words and n-grams and the determination of the degrees of nodes in their semantic network, followed by calculating the cosine metrics of text similarity. In the process of the construction of the text similarity matrix using lexical or semantic analysis methods, the cosine of the angle for a vector pair describing such texts will determine the degree of similarity in the lexical or semantic presentation, respectively. Based on the averaging procedure described in this paper, we can obtain a matrix of cosine metric values that describes the lexico-semantic bonds between texts. We propose an algorithm for solving text clustering problems. This algorithm allows one to use the statistical characteristics of the distribution functions of element values in the rows of the cosine metric value matrix in the model of the lexico-semantic bond between documents. In addition, this algorithm allows one to separately describe the matrix of the cosine metric values obtained separately based on the lexical or semantic properties of texts. Our research has shown that the developed model for the lexico-semantic presentation of texts allows one to slightly increase the accuracy of their subsequent clustering. The statistical text clustering algorithm based on this model shows excellent results that are comparable to those of the widely used affinity propagation algorithm. Additionally, our algorithm does not require specification of the degree of similarity for combining vectors into a common cluster and other configuration parameters. The suggested model and algorithm significantly expand the list of known approaches for determining text similarity metrics and their clustering.
Machine Learning Approach to Predict Flow Regime Index of a Stellate Water-Retaining Labyrinth Channel Emitter
Authors: Li Yanfei , Feng Xianying , Han Xingchang , Sun Yitian , Li Hui
Published: April 2023

Accurate calculation of the flow regime index in the design and development stage of a drip irrigation emitter plays an essential role. In this study, machine learning technologies were used to establish the relationship between flow channel structural parameters of the novel stellate water-retaining labyrinth channel (SWRLC) irrigation emitter and its flow regime index. The training dataset and test dataset were built by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation and experimental study. The extreme learning machine (ELM), backpropagation neural network (BPNN), and traditional multiple linear regression (MLR) models were developed for the prediction of the flow regime index of the SWRLC emitter. The input parameters matrix consisted of the length of the trapezoid baseline, angle between the hypotenuses of adjacent trapezoids, trapezoid height, radius of stellate water-retaining structure, spacing of two symmetric trapezoids, path depth, and SWRLC unit number, while flow regime index x was the output of the models. The comprehensive indicator (CI) was proposed, and root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), mean bias error value (MBE), and coefficient of determination (R2) were used to introduce the reliable assessment of the three models. The comparison results showed that the ELM model had the lowest errors, with the CI, RMSE, MAE, and R2 were 1.96 × 10−11, 0.00163, 0.00126, and 91.49%, respectively. The BPNN model had the lowest MBE error with the value of 1.03 × 10−4. The ELM and BPNN models were available and had acceptable accuracy for predicting the flow regime index of the emitter, saving both time and cost and increasing efficiency in the design and development stage. According to the CI, the ELM model performed best, followed by the BPNN model with a minor discrepancy.
Analytic Method for Optimizing the Allocation of Manure Nutrients Based on the Assessment of Land Carrying Capacity: A Case Study from a Typical Agricultural Region in China
Authors: Sun Jingjing , Mao Xinyu , Shaghaleh Hiba , Chang Tingting , Wang Runzhi , Zhai Senmao , Hamoud Yousef Alhaj
Published: April 2023

The separation between planting and breeding results in an unbalanced distribution of the regional livestock and poultry manure (RLM) industry, and it has raised great concerns. A holistic analysis and problem-solving scheme using 72 townships as the research point was developed in this study. On the basis of a survey from a typical agricultural region in China, the local characteristics of manure discharge, land use, and crop cultivation were analyzed. The assessment of land carrying capacity and environmental risk assessment was conducted by simulating the nitrogen cycle. Afterwards, optimized livestock breeding strategies and inter-regional transfer and flow scheme of manure nutrients were proposed. The spatial distribution of RLM in terms of pig manure equivalent showed an imbalance of high north–south and low middle, and the nitrogen requirement of crops showed a decreasing trend from north to south. In some townships, the environmental risks were higher than level I, which indicated that pollution existed around large construction sites and water areas in the northwest. The land carrying capacity index calculated at 50% nutrient ratio displayed no overloaded risk, whereas 10–20% nutrient ratio exhibited overloaded risk. Assessments showed that the residual RLM and its nitrogen volume were 151,700 and 3574.64 tons per year, respectively. More than 80% of the study area could be used as a nitrogen nutrient sink area, and only six townships are nitrogen nutrient sources. Therefore, optimizing the allocation of manure nutrients is expected to avoid agricultural contamination from livestock manure.
Reproductive Performance of Triplet-Bearing Ewes on Commercial Farms and Research Priorities Identified by Sheep Producers to Improve the Survival of Triplet-Bearing Ewes and Their Lambs
Authors: Thompson Andrew N. , Allington Travis , Blumer Sarah , Cameron Jo , Kearney Gavin , Kubeil Lyndon , Lockwood Amy , Trompf Jason , Winslow Emma , Kenyon Paul
Published: April 2023

Consultation with sheep producers was used to quantify the mortality of triplet-bearing ewes and their lambs, identify management practices adopted by producers to reduce these losses and prioritise future research needs to improve the survival of triplet-bearing ewes and their lambs. Surveys were completed by 64 producers across Australia who identified and separated triplet-bearing ewes from twin-bearing ewes in 2017 and/or 2018. On average, 5.9% of all ewes mated were identified as carrying triplets (6.6% of non-Merino ewes and 2.9% of Merino ewes). The average mortality of triplet-bearing ewes was 6.4%, and ewe mortality did not differ significantly between ewe breeds. The average survival of triplet-born lambs was 59%, and survival was significantly higher for lambs from non-Merino compared to Merino ewes (60.1 vs. 52.9%, p < 0.05). The key strategies adopted to reduce the mortality of triplet-bearing ewes and their lambs included management of condition score, feed-on-offer, mob size at lambing and use of shelter. There were no differences (p > 0.05) in the average mortality of triplet-bearing ewes or their lambs between producers that prioritised the adoption of certain management practices. However, significant variation existed between producers in their targets at lambing for ewe condition score (2.8 to 3.5), mob size (10 to 150 ewes) and feed-on-offer (800 to 2500 kg dry matter/ha). Overwhelmingly, the highest priorities for further research identified by producers from surveys, workshops and a webinar were ewe condition score, mob size, feed-on-offer at lambing and mineral supplementation. This study informs benchmarks for mortality of triplet-bearing ewes and their lambs under extensive grazing conditions in Australia, and the priorities for future research to reduce these losses.
A Quieter Ocean: Experimentally Derived Differences in Attentive Responses of Tursiops truncatus to Anthropogenic Noise Playbacks before and during the COVID-19-Related Anthropause
Authors: Stevens Paige E. , Allen Veda , Bruck Jason N.
Published: April 2023

The effects of anthropogenic noise continue to threaten marine fauna, yet the impacts of human-produced sound on the broad aspects of cognition in marine mammals remain relatively understudied. The shutdown of non-essential activities due to the COVID-19-related anthropause created an opportunity to determine if reducing levels of oceanic anthropogenic noise on cetaceans affected processes of sensitization and habituation for common human-made sounds in an experimental setting. Dolphins at Dolphin Quest Bermuda were presented with three noises related to human activities (cruise ship, personal watercraft, and Navy low-frequency active sonar) both in 2018 and again during the anthropause in 2021 via an underwater speaker. We found that decreased anthropogenic noise levels altered dolphin responses to noise playbacks. The dolphins spent significantly more time looking towards the playback source, but less time producing burst pulse and echolocation bouts in 2021. The dolphins looked towards the cruise ship sound source significantly more in 2021 than 2018. These data highlight that different sounds may incur different habituation and sensitization profiles and suggest that pauses in anthropogenic noise production may affect future responses to noise stimuli as dolphins dishabituate to sounds over time.
A Survey on Adversarial Perturbations and Attacks on CAPTCHAs
Authors: Alsuhibany Suliman A.
Published: April 2023

The Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart (CAPTCHA) technique has been a topic of interest for several years. The ability of computers to recognize CAPTCHA has significantly increased due to the development of deep learning techniques. To prevent this ability from being utilised, adversarial machine learning has recently been proposed by perturbing CAPTCHA images. As a result of the introduction of various removal methods, this perturbation mechanism can be removed. This paper, thus, presents the first comprehensive survey on adversarial perturbations and attacks on CAPTCHAs. In particular, the art of utilizing deep learning techniques with the aim of breaking CAPTCHAs are reviewed, and the effectiveness of adversarial CAPTCHAs is discussed. Drawing on the reviewed literature, several observations are provided as part of a broader outlook of this research direction. To emphasise adversarial CAPTCHAs as a potential solution for current attacks, a set of perturbation techniques have been suggested for application in adversarial CAPTCHAs.
The Importance of Soil Elevation and Hydroperiods in Salt Marsh Vegetation Zonation: A Case Study of Ria de Aveiro
Authors: Gouveia Marisa Marques , Magni Natasha Nonemacher , Lopes Carina Lurdes , Ribeiro Américo Soares , Dias João Miguel , Silva Helena
Published: April 2023

Salt marshes are among the most valuable ecosystems on earth; however, previous research has reported global losses in their extent accompanied by an impairment of their ecological processes. Nonetheless, investigations on salt marsh vegetation ecology are still lacking in many sites, including in Ria de Aveiro. As such, this study aimed to (1) monitor, characterize, and understand the evolution of salt marsh vegetation communities at three different study sites with different environmental conditions and stages of degradation, where we also sought to (2) identify the main delimiting abiotic factors associated with the distribution of the main species. To do so, a multidisciplinary approach that involved the survey of vegetation from permanent transects and the collection of ecological, physicochemical, and hydrodynamic data at sampling points within the monospecific stands of the main species was reported. The results showed that, of the abiotic factors deemed as the main delimiting forces of salt marsh vegetation, the soil elevation and hydroperiod were the most restrictive factors, as they ultimately influenced species composition at the different study sites and explained most of the variation observed between the studied monospecific stands.
Gelation in Alginate-Based Magnetic Suspensions Favored by Poor Interaction among Sodium Alginate and Embedded Particles
Authors: Safronov Alexander P. , Rusinova Elena V. , Terziyan Tatiana V. , Zemova Yulia S. , Kurilova Nadezhda M. , Beketov Igor. V. , Zubarev Andrey Yu.
Published: April 2023

Alginate gels are extensively tested in biomedical applications for tissue regeneration and engineering. In this regard, the modification of alginate gels and solutions with dispersed magnetic particles gives extra options to control the rheo-elastic properties both for the fluidic and gel forms of alginate. Rheological properties of magnetic suspensions based on Na-alginate water solution with embedded magnetic particles were studied with respect to the interfacial adhesion of alginate polymer to the surface of particles. Particles of magnetite (Fe3O4), metallic iron (Fe), metallic nickel (Ni), and metallic nickel with a deposited carbon layer (Ni@C) were taken into consideration. Storage modulus, loss modulus, and the shift angle between the stress and the strain were characterized by the dynamic mechanical analysis in the oscillatory mode. The intensity of molecular interactions between alginate and the surface of the particles was characterized by the enthalpy of adhesion which was determined from calorimetric measurements using a thermodynamic cycle. Strong interaction at the surface of the particles resulted in the dominance of the “fluidic” rheological properties: the prevalence of the loss modulus over the storage modulus and the high value of the shift angle. Meanwhile, poor interaction of alginate polymer with the surface of the embedded particles favored the “elastic” gel-like properties with the dominance of the storage modulus over the loss modulus and low values of the shift angle.
Effect of Different Mulch Types on Soil Environment, Water and Fertilizer Use Efficiency, and Yield of Cabbage
Authors: Mu Xiaoguo , Gao Hu , Li Haijun , Gao Fucheng , Zhang Ying , Ye Lin
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to address the crop growth and development issues caused by environmental factors in the area of the Liupan Mountains in Ningxia. In this area, there is a large temperature difference between day and night due to drought and low rainfall from spring to summer. The effects of farmland mulching for cabbage on soil environment, water and fertilizer use efficiency, and on cabbage were studied by comparing white common mulch (WCM), black common mulch (BCM), white and black biodegradable mulch (WBM and BBM), black permeable mulch (BPM), and black-and-white composite mulch (BWCM). The types of mulch suitable for application in the region were selected after a comprehensive comparative analysis. The results suggested that soil temperature and water content decreased in the mulch of the two biodegradable mulches and the permeable mulch compared with the control (WCM). Meanwhile, soil water content significantly increased into the rainy season in the mulch of BPM. The overall index of soil enzyme activity was 11.8% and 5.2% higher in WBCM and BBM than that in WCM. The soil overall fertility index of WCM exceeded the other treatments by 16.3%, 33.0%, 25.6%, 36.6%, and 25.4%. The water use efficiency and fertilizer bias productivity of BBM and BPM mulch treatments were the highest among all treatments. The economic yield and economic efficiency of cabbage in BBM, BPM, and WBCM mulch treatments were among the best. A comprehensive analysis of the indicators by completing principal components and affiliation functions revealed that WBCM, BBM, and BPM ranked in the top three in comprehensive scores. In conclusion, black biodegradable mulch, permeable mulch, and black-and-white composite mulch can be applied to replace the white common mulch, with black biodegradable mulch treatment performing the best.
Material Design in Implantable Biosensors toward Future Personalized Diagnostics and Treatments
Authors: Ghorbanizamani Faezeh , Moulahoum Hichem , Guler Celik Emine , Timur Suna
Published: April 2023

The growing demand for personalized treatments and the constant observation of vital signs for extended periods could positively solve the problematic concerns associated with the necessity for patient control and hospitalization. The impressive development in biosensing devices has led to the creation of man-made implantable devices that are temporarily or permanently introduced into the human body, and thus, diminishing the pain and discomfort of the person. Despite all promising achievements in this field, there are some critical challenges to preserve reliable functionality in the complex environment of the human body over time. Biosensors in the in vivo environment are required to have specific features, including biocompatibility (minimal immune response or biofouling), biodegradability, reliability, high accuracy, and miniaturization (flexible, stretchable, lightweight, and ultra-thin). However, the performance of implantable biosensors is limited by body responses and insufficient power supplies (due to minimized batteries/electronics and data transmission without wires). In addition, the current processes and developments in the implantable biosensors field will open new routes in biomedicine and diagnostic systems that monitor occurrences happening inside the body in a certain period. This topical paper aims to give an overview of the state-of-the-art implantable biosensors and their design methods. It also discusses the latest developments in material science, including nanomaterials, hydrogel, hydrophilic, biomimetic, and other polymeric materials to overcome failures in implantable biosensors’ reliability. Lastly, we discuss the main challenges faced and future research prospects toward the development of dependable implantable biosensors.
Kinetic Photovoltaic Facade System Based on a Parametric Design for Application in Signal Box Buildings in Switzerland
Authors: Choi Ho Soon
Published: April 2023

This study aims to produce renewable energy by applying a solar-energy-harvesting architectural design using solar panels on the facade of a building. To install as many solar panels as possible on the building elevation, the Signal Box auf dem Wolf, located in Basel, Switzerland, was selected as the research target. The solar panels to be installed on the facade of the Signal Box auf dem Wolf are planned such that they are able to move according to the optimal tilt angle every month to allow maximal energy generation. The kinetic photovoltaic facade system and the simulation of renewable energy generation were implemented using a parametric design. The novelty of this study is the development of a kinetic photovoltaic facade system using a parametric design algorithm. From the perspective of renewable energy in the field of architecture, the kinetic photovoltaic facade system developed in this study has the advantage of producing maximal renewable energy according to the optimal tilt angle of the solar panels. Additionally, building facades that move according to the optimal tilt angle will contribute to the expansion of the field of sustainable architectural design.
The Effects of Vagus Nerve Stimulation on Animal Models of Stroke-Induced Injury: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hasan Mohammad Yusuf , Siran Rosfaiizah , Mahadi Mohd Kaisan
Published: April 2023

Ischemic stroke is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and poses a great burden to society and the healthcare system. There have been many recent advances in the treatment of ischemic stroke, which usually results from the interruption of blood flow to a particular part of the brain. Current treatments for ischemic stroke mainly focus on revascularization or reperfusion of cerebral blood flow to the infarcted tissue. Nevertheless, reperfusion injury may exacerbate ischemic injury in patients with stroke. In recent decades, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has emerged as an optimistic therapeutic intervention. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that VNS is a promising treatment for ischemic stroke in various rat models through improved neural function, cognition, and neuronal deficit scores. We thoroughly examined previous evidence from stroke-induced animal studies using VNS as an intervention until June 2022. We concluded that VNS yields stroke treatment potential by improving neurological deficit score, infarct volume, forelimb strength, inflammation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis. This review also discusses potential molecular mechanisms underlying VNS-mediated neuroprotection. This review could help researchers conduct additional translational research on patients with stroke.
Pairwise Engineering of Tandemly Aligned Self-Splicing Group I Introns for Analysis and Control of Their Alternative Splicing
Authors: Ueda Tomoki , Nishimura Kei-ichiro , Nishiyama Yuka , Tominaga Yuto , Miyazaki Katsushi , Furuta Hiroyuki , Matsumura Shigeyoshi , Ikawa Yoshiya
Published: April 2023

Alternative splicing is an important mechanism in the process of eukaryotic nuclear mRNA precursors producing multiple protein products from a single gene. Although group I self-splicing introns usually perform regular splicing, limited examples of alternative splicing have also been reported. The exon-skipping type of splicing has been observed in genes containing two group I introns. To characterize splicing patterns (exon-skipping/exon-inclusion) of tandemly aligned group I introns, we constructed a reporter gene containing two Tetrahymena introns flanking a short exon. To control splicing patterns, we engineered the two introns in a pairwise manner to design pairs of introns that selectively perform either exon-skipping or exon-inclusion splicing. Through pairwise engineering and biochemical characterization, the structural elements important for the induction of exon-skipping splicing were elucidated.
Wearable Smart Bandage-Based Bio-Sensors
Authors: Levin Arie , Gong Shu , Cheng Wenlong
Published: April 2023

Bandage is a well-established industry, whereas wearable electronics is an emerging industry. This review presents the bandage as the base of wearable bioelectronics. It begins with introducing a detailed background to bandages and the development of bandage-based smart sensors, which is followed by a sequential discussion of the technical characteristics of the existing bandages, a more practical methodology for future applications, and manufacturing processes of bandage-based wearable biosensors. The review then elaborates on the advantages of basing the next generation of wearables, such as acceptance by the customers and system approvals, and disposal.
The Effect of Power Distance Belief on the Evaluation of Experiential and Material Purchases
Authors: Kim Hongsub , Yoon Yeosun , Kim Byoungsoo
Published: April 2023

Depending on the level of power distance belief (PDB), individuals have different motivations to compare themselves with other people. This study suggests that the relationship between purchase type (material versus experiential) and purchase evaluation is moderated by PDB. Furthermore, the effect of purchase type and PDB on purchase evaluation is mediated through comparison motivation. To investigate the effect of PDB on the evaluation, we conducted two experiments by manipulating a 2 (purchase type: material vs. experiential purchase) × 2 (PDB: low vs. high) between-subjects design. In the case of experiential purchases, individuals with high PDB exhibit lower purchase evaluations than those with low PDB, as they are more inclined to compare these with other experiential goods (study 1). Conversely, under material purchases, the impact of PDB on purchase evaluation does not differ as material purchases already motivate individuals to compare other material goods (study 1). Additionally, individuals with high PDB are more motivated to compare purchases due to their greater need for structure (study 2). Our findings provide guidelines for the development of advertising strategy with social networking services and live-streaming commerce platforms.