bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do Coffee Agroforestry Systems Always Improve Soil Carbon Stocks Deeper in the Soil?—A Case Study from Turrialba, Costa Rica
Authors: Chatterjee Nilovna , Nair P. K. Ramachandran , Nair Vimala D. , Bhattacharjee Abhishek , Filho Elias de Melo Virginio , Muschler Rheinhold G. , Noponen Martin R. A.
Published: January 2020

Shaded perennial agroforestry systems (AFS) are regarded as desirable land-use practices that improve soil carbon sequestration. However, most studies assume a positive correlation between above ground and below ground carbon without considering the effect of past and current land management, textural variations (silt and clay percentage), and such other site-specific factors that have a major influence on the extent of soil C sequestration. We assessed SOC stock at various depths (0–10, 10–30, 30–60, and 60–100 cm) in shaded perennial coffee (Coffea arabica L.) AFS in a 17-year-old experimental field at the Centro Agronómico Tropical de Investigación y Enseñanza, (9°53′44′′ N, 83°40′7′′ W; soil type: Ultisols and Inceptisols, Turrialba, Costa Rica. The treatments included coffee (Coffea arabica L.) grown conventionally (with chemical fertilizers) and organically (without chemical fertilizers) under two shade trees, Erythrina poeppigiana (Walp.) O.F. Cook., and Terminalia Amazonia J.F.Gmel., Sun Coffee (Coffea arabica L.) (Sole stand of coffee without shade), and Native Forest. Three replicated composite soil samples were collected from each system for each depth class, and SOC stocks in three soil aggregate fractions (2000–250 µm, 250–53 µm, and <53 µm) and in the whole soil determined. The total SOC stocks were highest under forest (146.6 Mg C ha−1) and lowest under sun coffee (92.5 Mg C ha−1). No significant differences were noted in SOC stock within coffee AFS and sun coffee across fraction sizes and depth classes. Organic management of coffee under heavily pruned E. poeppigiana, with pruned litter returned to soil, increased SOC stocks for 0–10 cm depth soil only. High input of organic materials including pruned litter did not improve SOC stocks in deeper soil, whereas variations in silt and clay percentages had a significant effect on SOC stocks. The study suggests that high amounts of aboveground biomass alone are not a good indicator of increased SOC storage in AFS, particularly for soils of sites with historical characteristics and management similar to this study.
Effects of Metaxenia on Stone Cell Formation in Pear (Pyrus bretschneideri) Based on Transcriptomic Analysis and Functional Characterization of the Lignin-Related Gene PbC4H2
Authors: Cheng Xi , Zhang Jinyun , Wang Han , Chen Tianzhe , Li Guohui , Yan Chongchong , Jin Qing , Lin Yi , Cai Yongping
Published: January 2020

The deposition of lignin in flesh parenchyma cells for pear stone cells, and excessive stone cells reduce the taste and quality of the fruit. The effect of metaxenia on the quality of fruit has been heavily studied, but the effect of metaxenia on stone cell formation has not been fully elucidated to date. This study used P. bretschneideri (Chinese white pear) cv. ‘Yali’ (high-stone cell content) and P. pyrifolia (Sand pear) cv. ‘Cuiguan’ (low-stone cell content) as pollination trees to pollinate P. bretschneideri cv. ‘Lianglizaosu’ separately to fill this gap in the literature. The results of quantitative determination, histochemical staining and electron microscopy indicated that the content of stone cells and lignin in YL fruit (‘Yali’ (pollen parent) × ‘Lianglizaosu’ (seed parent)) was significantly higher than that in CL fruit (‘Cuiguan’ (pollen parent) × ‘Lianglizaosu’ (seed parent)). The transcriptome sequencing results that were obtained from the three developmental stages of the two types of hybrid fruits indicated that a large number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to auxin signal transduction (AUX/IAAs and ARFs), lignin biosynthesis, and lignin metabolism regulation (MYBs, LIMs, and KNOXs) between the CL and YL fruits at the early stage of fruit development. Therefore, metaxenia might change the signal transduction process of auxin in pear fruit, thereby regulating the expression of transcription factors (TFs) related to lignin metabolism, and ultimately affecting lignin deposition and stone cell development. In addition, we performed functional verification of a differentially expressed gene, PbC4H2 (cinnamate 4-hydroxylase). Heterologous expression of PbC4H2 in the c4h mutant not only restored its collapsed cell wall, but also significantly increased the lignin content in the inflorescence stem. The results of our research help to elucidate the metaxenia-mediated regulation of pear stone cell development and clarify the function of PbC4H2 in cell wall development and lignin synthesis, which establishes a foundation for subsequent molecular breeding.
Temporal Effects of Thinning on the Leaf C:N:P Stoichiometry of Regenerated Broadleaved Trees in Larch Plantations
Authors: Xie Jin , Yan Qiaoling , Yuan Junfeng , Li Rong , Lü Xiaotao , Liu Shengli , Zhu Jiaojun
Published: January 2020

The shift from natural mixed broadleaved forests to pure coniferous plantations results in soil degradation and the unsustainable development of plantations due to the simple stand structure and low species diversity. Thinning can practically sustain the forest structure and promote the regeneration and growth of broadleaved trees in these pure coniferous plantations. The growth of regenerated broadleaved trees is closely related to leaf ecological stoichiometry, which is strongly restricted by environmental factors such as light, soil moisture, and nutrients after thinning. However, the temporal effects of thinning on leaf C:N:P stoichiometry are still not well understood, which constrains our understanding of implementing thinning in coniferous plantations to promote the regeneration and growth of broadleaved species, and further forming the mixed larch-broadleaf forests. Here, we compared canopy openness (i.e., light availability) and the soil and leaf stoichiometry for regenerated broadleaved trees in larch (Larix keampferi) plantations in short-term (1–3 years), medium-term (4–9 years), and long-term (≥10 years) periods after thinning, taking natural mixed broadleaved forests as a control in Northeast China. The results showed that the temporal effects of thinning were not significant with respect to soil C concentrations, but significant with respect to soil C:P and N:P ratios. The regenerated broadleaved trees adjusted their leaf N concentrations and C:N ratios in response to the changed environmental conditions after thinning over time. The responses of soil and leaf stoichiometry to thinning and their significant correlation indicated a strong interaction between the soil and understory regeneration following thinning. Thus, thinning affects the soil and leaf stoichiometry of regenerated trees over time. These findings provide new insights into the conversion of pure coniferous plantations into mixed larch-broadleaf forests by controlling thinning intervals.
Can Strict Protection Stop the Decline of Mangrove Ecosystems in China? From Rapid Destruction to Rampant Degradation
Authors: Wang Wenqing , Fu Haifeng , Lee Shing Yip , Fan Hangqing , Wang Mao
Published: January 2020

China has lost about 50% of its mangrove forests from 1950 to 2001. Since 2001, mangrove forest area has increased by 1.8% per year due to strict protection of the remaining mangrove forests and large-scale restoration. By 2019, 67% of the mangrove forests in China had been enclosed within protected areas (PAs). In terms of the proportion of PAs of mangrove forests, China has achieved the conservation target of “Nature Needs Half”. The ongoing degradation of mangrove forests was assessed at the species, population, community and ecosystem levels. The results show that despite the strict protection, the remaining mangrove forests are suffering extensive degradation due to widespread anthropogenic disturbance. Of the 26 mangrove species, 50% are threatened with extinction, a proportion higher than the average for all higher plants in China (10.8%). Local extinction of some common species like Bruguiera gymnorhiza is widespread. About 53% of the existing mangrove areas were dominated by low-intertidal pioneer species. Consequently, the carbon stock in vegetation has decreased by 53.1%, from 21.8 Tg C in the 1950s to 10.2 Tg C in 2019. Meanwhile, there is an estimated 10.8% concomitant decrease in the carbon sequestration rate. The root cause for this degradation in China is seawall construction because most mangroves are outside seawalls in China. Without fundamental changes in protection and restoration strategies, mangrove forests in China will continue to degrade in spite of strict protection and large-scale restoration. Future mangrove conservation effort should aim to preserve the diversity of both the biota and the ecological processes sustaining the mangrove ecosystem. A few suggestions to raise the effectiveness of mangrove conservation actions were provided.
Evaluation of the Foliar Damage That Threatens a Millennial-Age Tree, Araucaria araucana (Molina) K. Koch, Using Leaf Waxes
Authors: Cifuentes Gerald , Contreras Sergio , Cerda-Peña Carol
Published: January 2020

A. araucana is an endemic species of the temperate forests from Chile and Argentina; protected in both countries and categorized as in danger of extinction. Individuals of this species have begun to show foliar damage (i.e., discoloration) in branches and upper parts. The discoloration begins from the base to the top and from the trunk to the branches with necrotic rings appearing; in some cases causing death; and is currently attributed to an as yet unknown disease. This study focuses on the first protective layer of plants against environmental stress and pathogens; known as leaf waxes. The abundance and distribution of three classes of leaf waxes (long chain fatty acids; alkanes and alcohols) were measured in healthy individuals of A. araucana from different sites and individuals that present foliar damage (sick individuals). In the case of sick individuals; their leaf waxes were measured considering the level of leaf damage; that is; leaves without; medium and full foliar damage. The most abundant class of leaf wax in both sick and healthy individuals was fatty acids; followed by alkanes and then alcohols; with common dominant chains; C28 fatty acid; C29 alkane and C24 alcohol. Sick individuals have higher abundances of alkanes and alcohols than healthy individuals. The leaves of sick individuals have lower values of distribution indices (the carbon preference index of fatty acids and average chain length of alkanes) as foliar damage increases that are interpreted as a reduction of in vivo biosynthesis of waxes. This is the first evidence of A. araucana response to a still unknown disease that is killing individuals of this endemic species.
Editorial for Special Issue “Drop, Bubble and Particle Dynamics in Complex Fluids”
Authors: Afkhami Shahriar , Yue Pengtao
Published: January 2020

The presence of drops, bubbles, and particles affects the behavior and response of complex multiphase fluids [...]
Viscosity-Enhanced Fluid Drift around Hairy Structures
Authors: Joung Seyoung , Lee Hong Ki , Kim Daegyoum
Published: January 2020

Hairy structures in nature function to sense smells and capture nutrients from surrounding fluid. Motivated by the complicated fluid transport processes observed in biological hairy structures, we numerically investigate the dynamics of fluid particles around multiple solid objects moving in a quiescent fluid, using simple two-dimensional cylinder models in the low-Reynolds-number regime ( R e = 1 –100). The behavior of fluid particles entrained by a moving cylinder array is analyzed by tracking particle trajectories and computing the drift volume, which indicates the amount of fluid particles transported by the moving cylinders. Hydrodynamic blockage of gaps within the cylinder array, which arises from the overlap of shear layers due to viscous diffusion, is critical in determining the overall fluid particle dynamics. As the number of cylinders increases, the deformation of the material line composed of fluid particles and the magnitude of the resultant drift volume show consistent patterns, despite undergoing drastic changes, and they converge to a specific configuration and magnitude, respectively. This study shows that visualization and quantification of collective fluid transport by multiple solid bodies are important to evaluate the efficiency of fluid transport for a collection of multiple bodies and to find its optimal configuration.
Influence of the Brewing Temperature on the Taste of Espresso
Authors: Klotz Johanna A. , Winkler Gertrud , Lachenmeier Dirk W.
Published: January 2020

Very hot (>65 °C) beverages such as espresso have been evaluated by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as probably carcinogenic to humans. For this reason, research into lowering beverage temperature without compromising its quality or taste is important. For espresso, one obvious possibility consists in lowering the brewing temperature. In two sensory trials using the ISO 4120:2004 triangle test methodology, brewing temperatures of 80 °C vs. 128 °C and 80 °C vs. 93 °C were compared. Most tasters were unable to distinguish between 80 °C and 93 °C. The results of these pilot experiments prove the possibility of decreasing the health hazards of very hot beverages by lower brewing temperatures.
Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres and Chromatin Status
Authors: Udroiu Ion , Sgura Antonella
Published: January 2020

Telomere length is maintained by either telomerase, a reverse transcriptase, or alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT), a mechanism that utilizes homologous recombination (HR) proteins. Since access to DNA for HR enzymes is regulated by the chromatin status, it is expected that telomere elongation is linked to epigenetic modifications. The aim of this review is to elucidate the epigenetic features of ALT-positive cells. In order to do this, it is first necessary to understand the telomeric chromatin peculiarities. So far, the epigenetic nature of telomeres is still controversial: some authors describe them as heterochromatic, while for others, they are euchromatic. Similarly, ALT activity should be characterized by the loss (according to most researchers) or formation (as claimed by a minority) of heterochromatin in telomeres. Besides reviewing the main works in this field and the most recent findings, some hypotheses involving the role of telomere non-canonical sequences and the possible spatial heterogeneity of telomeres are given.
Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing in Patients with Suggestive X-Linked Intellectual Disability
Authors: Ibarluzea Nekane , de la Hoz Ana Belén , Villate Olatz , Llano Isabel , Ocio Intzane , Martí Itxaso , Guitart Miriam , Gabau Elisabeth , Andrade Fernando , Gener Blanca , Tejada María-Isabel
Published: January 2020

X-linked intellectual disability (XLID) is known to contribute up to 10% of intellectual disability (ID) in males and could explain the increased ratio of affected males observed in patients with ID. Over the past decade, next-generation sequencing has clearly stimulated the gene discovery process and has become part of the diagnostic procedure. We have performed targeted next-generation sequencing of 82 XLID genes on 61 non-related male patients with suggestive non-syndromic XLID. These patients were initially referred to the molecular genetics laboratory to exclude Fragile X Syndrome. The cohort includes 47 male patients with suggestive X-linked family history of ID meaning that they had half-brothers or maternal cousins or uncles affected; and 14 male patients with ID and affected brothers whose mothers show skewed X-inactivation. Sequencing data analysis identified 17 candidate variants in 16 patients. Seven families could be re-contacted and variant segregation analysis of the respective eight candidate variants was performed: HUWE1, IQSEC2, MAOA, MED12, PHF8, SLC6A8, SLC9A6, and SYN1. Our results show the utility of targeted next-generation sequencing in unravelling the genetic origin of XLID, especially in retrospective cases. Variant segregation and additional studies like RNA sequencing and biochemical assays also helped in re-evaluating and further classifying the genetic variants found.
Clinical Usefulness of Bright White Light Therapy for Depressive Symptoms in Cancer Survivors: Results from a Series of Personalized (N-of-1) Trials
Authors: Kronish Ian M. , Cheung Ying Kuen , Julian Jacob , Parsons Faith , Lee Jenny , Yoon Sunmoo , Valdimarsdottir Heidis , Green Paige , Suls Jerry , Hershman Dawn L. , Davidson Karina W.
Published: January 2020

Purpose: Little is known about the effectiveness of bright white light therapy (BWL) for depressive symptoms in cancer survivors, many of whom prefer non-pharmacological treatments. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of BWL versus dim red light therapy (DRL) on depressive symptoms within individual cancer survivors using personalized (N-of-1) trials. Methods: Cancer survivors with at least mild depressive symptoms were randomized to one of two treatment sequences consisting of counterbalanced crossover comparisons of three-weeks of lightbox-delivered BWL (intervention) or DRL (sham) for 30 min each morning across 12 weeks. A smartphone application guided cancer survivors through the treatment sequence and facilitated data collection. Cancer survivors tracked end-of-day depressive symptoms (primary outcome) and fatigue using visual analog scales. Within-patient effects of BWL were assessed using an autoregressive model with adjustment for linear time trends. Results: Eight of nine cancer survivors completed the 12-week protocol. Two survivors reported significantly (i.e., p < 0.05) lower depressive symptoms (−1.3 ± 0.5 and −1.30 ± 0.9 points on a 10-point scale), five reported no difference in depressive symptoms, and one reported higher depressive symptoms (+1.7 ± 0.6 points) with BWL versus DRL. Eight of nine cancer survivors recommended personalized trials of BWL to others. Conclusions: There were heterogeneous effects of three-week BWL on self-reported depressive symptoms among cancer survivors, with some finding a benefit but others finding no benefit or even harm. Implications for Cancer Survivors: Personalized trials can help cancer survivors learn if BWL is helpful for improving their depressive symptoms.
Quantifying Tree Hydration Using Electromagnetic Sensors
Authors: Stott Lance , Black Brent , Bugbee Bruce
Published: January 2020

An automated method of determining tree water status would enable tree fruit growers, foresters and arborists to reduce water consumption, reduce orchard maintenance costs and improve fruit quality. Automated measurements could also be used to irrigate based on need rather than on fixed schedules. Numerous automated approaches have been studied; all are difficult to implement. Electromagnetic sensors that measure volumetric water content can be inserted in tree trunks to determine relative changes in tree water status. We performed automated measurements of dielectric permittivity using four commercially available electromagnetic sensors in fruit tree trunks over the 2016 growing season. These sensors accurately measure the ratio of air and water in soils, but tree trunks have minimal air-filled porosity. The sensors do respond, however, to bound and unbound water and the relative change in the output of the sensors thus provides an indication of this ratio. Sapwood is the hydro-dynamically responsive component of trunk anatomy and is nearest the bark. Sensor response improved when the waveguides were exposed to a greater percentage of sapwood. Irrigation-induced increases of approximately 0.5 MPa in stem water potential were associated with 0.5 unit increases in dielectric permittivity. Electromagnetic sensors respond to bound water in trees and thus have the potential to indicate tree water status, especially when the sensor rods are in contact with sapwood. Sensor modifications and/or innovative installation techniques could enable automated measurements of tree water status that could be used to precision irrigate trees.
Effects of Aquifer Bed Slope and Sea Level on Saltwater Intrusion in Coastal Aquifers
Authors: Abd-Elhamid Hany F. , Abd-Elaty Ismail , Sherif Mohsen M.
Published: January 2020

The quality of groundwater resources in coastal aquifers is affected by saltwater intrusion. Over-abstraction of groundwater and seawater level rise due to climate change accelerate the intrusion process. This paper investigates the effects of aquifer bed slope and seaside slope on saltwater intrusion. The possible impacts of increasing seawater head due to sea level rise and decreasing groundwater level due to over-pumping and reduction in recharge are also investigated. A numerical model (SEAWAT) is applied to well-known Henry problem to assess the movement of the dispersion zone under different settings of bed and seaside slopes. The results showed that increasing seaside slope increased the intrusion of saltwater by 53.2% and 117% for slopes of 1:1 and 2:1, respectively. Increasing the bed slope toward the land decreased the intrusion length by 2% and 4.8%, respectively. On the other hand, increasing the bed slope toward the seaside increased the intrusion length by 3.6% and 6.4% for bed slopes of 20:1 and 10:1, respectively. The impacts of reducing the groundwater level at the land side and increasing the seawater level at the shoreline by 5% and 10% considering different slopes are studied. The intrusion length increased under both conditions. Unlike Henry problem, the current investigation considers inclined beds and sea boundaries and, hence, provides a better representation of the field conditions.
Subjective Quality of Life and Its Associations among First Episode Psychosis Patients in Singapore
Authors: Satghare Pratika , Abdin Edimansyah , Shahwan Shazana , Chua Boon Yiang , Poon Lye Yin , Chong Siow Ann , Subramaniam Mythily
Published: January 2020

Background—Mental disorders have been found to affect quality of life (QOL) in patients. The current study aimed to determine QOL among first episode psychosis (FEP) patients and explore its associations with sociodemographic as well as clinical factors. Methods—Data for this study were collected as a part of an Early Psychosis Intervention Program (EPIP)-Smoking and Alcohol use survey. At baseline, 280 outpatients aged 15–40 years old diagnosed with FEP, with no prior or minimal treatment, no history of medical or neurological disorder, and no history of substance abuse, were recruited. Sociodemographic details, diagnosis, length of duration of untreated psychosis (DUP), and World Health Organization Quality of Life assessment—abbreviated version (WHOQOL-BREF) scores were obtained. Results—After adjusting for all covariates, older age (p = 0.036), females, and participants diagnosed with brief psychotic disorder (p = 0.04) were associated positively, whereas separated/divorced participants, those with lower education, unemployed (p = 0.01), and longer DUP were seen to be negatively associated with different domains of QOL. Conclusion—Higher WHOQOL-BREF scores denote better QOL. Overall, female participants as compared to male participants and those diagnosed with brief psychotic disorder in this sample reported better QOL.
Older Women in Australia: Facing the Challenges of Dual Sensory Loss
Authors: Heine Chyrisse , Gong Cathy Honge , Feldman Susan , Browning Colette
Published: January 2020

With the increase in longevity, the number of women living into old age is rising and higher than that of men. Data was derived from the Melbourne Longitudinal Studies on Healthy Ageing Program, which included 533 women and 467 men aged 65 years and older, in Australia, over 10 years. Logistic regression modeling was used to investigate the prevalence of dual sensory loss and the unmet needs for vision and hearing devices in older women (compared to men) over time, as well as its impacts on self-reported general health, depression, perceived social activities, community service use and ageing in place. Results suggested that the prevalence of dual sensory loss increased for women from the age of 75 years and over. Dual sensory loss was higher for older women and men who were living alone, with government benefits as their main income source or were divorced, separated or widowed. Dual sensory loss had significant impacts on poor general health, perceived inadequate social activities and community service use for women and men and on depression for women only. Early identification of dual sensory loss is essential to minimize its effects, ensuring continued well-being for this population.
Toxic Metals Depuration Profiles from a Population Adjacent to a Military Target Range (Vieques) and Main Island Puerto Rico
Authors: Jirau-Colón Héctor , Cosme Ashley , Marcial-Vega Víctor , Jiménez-Vélez Braulio
Published: January 2020

Background: The island of Vieques (a municipality of Puerto Rico) was used as a military practice range by the US Navy for more than 60 years. Many studies have reported the presence of toxic metals in soil samples taken from Vieques. The bombing range is only 18 km upwind from the Vieques residential area and inhalable resuspended particles resulting from bombing are known to reach the populated area. The current study reports for the first time, the presence of toxic metals’ depuration profiles obtained from Vieques and Main Island Puerto Rico human subjects. Objectives: This study was designed to evaluate the distribution of toxic metals in a random population exposed to contaminants originating from military activities and comparing it to a non-exposed random population from Main Island Puerto Rico. Methods: A total of 83 subjects studied; 32 were from Vieques and 51 were from Main Island Puerto Rico. A physician administrated chelation therapy to all subjects and collected urine samples during a 24-h period. A total of 20 trace elements associated with military activities were measured in urine by induced coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The results were compared between both population samples. Results: Significant differences in the levels of eight trace elements associated with military practices were found between Vieques and Main Island Puerto Rico. Lead (Pb), aluminum (Al), uranium (U) (p < 0.001), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd) (p = 0.02), and gadolinium (Gd) (p = 0.03) were significantly higher in Vieques while niobium (Nb) and platinum (Pt) levels (p < 0.006) were lower in the Vieques samples. Discussion: Higher concentrations of Pb, Al, As, Cd, Gd, and U were found in Vieques residents’ urine samples compared to Main Island. Nonetheless, Pt and Ga were present in Main Island at higher concentrations than in Vieques. Although limited by its sample size, this report should set a basis for the importance of health assessment in these subjects exposed to military activities remnants throughout the years and further evaluation of their effects on the overall health of the population.
Effects of Biochar Combined with Nitrogen Fertilizer Reduction on Rapeseed Yield and Soil Aggregate Stability in Upland of Purple Soils
Authors: Tian Xiaoqin , Li Zhuo , Wang Longchang , Wang Yifan , Li Biao , Duan Meichun , Liu Bangyan
Published: January 2020

Reduction of soil fertility and production efficiency resulting from excessive application of chemical fertilizers is universal in rapeseed-growing fields. The main objective of our study was to assess the effects of biochar combined with nitrogen fertilizer reduction on soil aggregate stability and rapeseed yield and to identify the relationship between yield and soil aggregate stability. A two-factor field experiment (2017–2019) was conducted with biochar (0 (C0), 10 (C10), 20 (C20) and 40 t·ha−1 (C40)) and nitrogen fertilizer (180 (N100), 144 (N80) and 108 kg N·ha−1 (N60)). Experimental results indicated that under N100 and N80 treatments, C10 significantly increased the macro-aggregates (R0.25), mean weight diameter (MWD) and geometric mean diameter (GMD) of soil water stable aggregate by 14.28%–15.85%, 14.88%–17.08% and 36.26%–42.22%, respectively, compared with C0. Besides, the overall difference of the soil water-stable aggregate content in 2–5 mm size range among nitrogen treatments was significant under the application of C10, which increased by 17.04%–33.04% compared with C0. Total organic carbon (TOC) in R0.25 of soil mechanical-stable aggregates was basically all increased after biochar application, especially in 0.25–1 mm and 1–2 mm aggregates, and had an increasing trend with biochar increase. C10 significantly increased rapeseed yield by 22.08%–45.65% in 2019, compared with C0. However, the reduction of nitrogen fertilizer reduced the two-year average rapeseed yield, which decreased by 11.67%–31.67% compared with N100. The highest yield of rapeseed was obtained by N100C10 in two consecutive years, which had no statistical difference with N80C10. However, the two-year yields of N80C10 were all higher than those of N100C0 with increase rate of 16.11%, and which would reduce 35.43% nitrogen fertilizer in the case of small yield difference, compared with the highest yield (2.67 t·ha−1) calculated by multi-dimensional nonlinear regression models. The regression analysis indicated R0.25, MWD and GMD had the strong positive associations with rapeseed yield, whereas percentage of aggregate destruction (PAD0.25) had a significant negative correlation with rapeseed yield. This study suggests that the application of biochar into upland purple soil could improve soil structure, increase the content of TOC in macro-aggregates under nitrogen fertilizer reduction as well as replace part of nitrogen fertilizer to achieve relatively high rapeseed yield.
A Qualitative Analysis of an Aerobic Interval Training Programme for Obese Outpatients Carried Out in a Hospital Context
Authors: Cabanillas-Cruz Esther , López-Rodriguez Christian , Romero-Blanco Cristina , Aznar Susana
Published: January 2020

Purpose: To describe the experience of obese adults following participation in an indoor aerobic interval training (AIT) intervention. Methodology: Qualitative, in-depth semi-structured individual interviews, using phenomenology, with 24 obese adults (body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2) from the Endocrinology Department, at the Severo Ochoa Hospital in Leganés (Madrid). Questions were related to: (a) The physical activity (PA) programme, (b) their perspectives of the activity and exercise environment and (c) the perceived benefits from participation. Data were analysed with a constant comparison approach. Results: The main patients’ reasons for beginning the programme were motivations to take part including weight loss, health improvement and doctors’ recommendation. Also, patients showed doubts and feelings of apprehension at the beginning of the intervention. Patients highlighted the role of the instructor, feelings of exercising in a safe environment, a good intervention and accessibility of the facility. They reported an improvement in their quality of life and recommended continuing the program. Conclusions: (1) Common themes in the qualitative analysis included enjoyment of the activity and a desire to maintain physical fitness, (2) AIT was perceived as a suitable exercise programme for this population and (3) recommendations for further investigation to understand the role of PA programmes for people with obesity.
Challenges in Infection Epidemiology: On the Underreporting of Norovirus Gastroenteritis Cases in Germany
Authors: Hofmann Felix Martin , Olawumi Edward , Michaelis Martina , Hofmann Friedrich , Stößel Ulrich
Published: January 2020

It is commonly accepted that the number of officially reported incidences of norovirus (NoV) according to the German Protection against Infection Act (Infektionsschutzgesetz) does not reflect the ‘true’ incidence of NoV in Germany. This study aims to reveal the reasons for the underreporting of NoV cases by comparing secondary data. Methods: NoV incidence (cases per 100,000 reference persons) in the age group 18–65 was derived from register data of four different sources in the German public health system (2011–2015): Statutory health insurance in the federal state of Lower Saxony (AOK; in- and outpatient cases), the Research Institute of Ambulatory Health Care in Germany (ZI; outpatient cases), the German Federal Statistical Office (inpatient cases; DESTATIS), and the Robert Koch Institute (RKI SurvStat; health reporting data). Results: the incidence derived from the AOK in Lower Saxony varied between 49 and 66 NoV cases per 100,000 persons and was thus lower than at the federal level. Incidences of all inpatient and outpatient data were lower than the incidence according to the RKI in the last 2–3 years of the observation period. Conclusions: the disagreement between NoV incidences calculated from secondary inpatient and outpatient data and the respective numbers published by the RKI can be regarded as an indication that not all NoV cases were reported to public health authorities. This might be due to missed cases during the notification procedure or misclassification of gastroenteritis cases by general practitioners. Considering the limitations associated with analyzing secondary data, the appropriateness of these assumptions should be verified in future studies.
Preventability of Colorectal Cancer in Saudi Arabia: Fraction of Cases Attributable to Modifiable Risk Factors in 2015–2040
Authors: Al-Zalabani Abdulmohsen
Published: January 2020

A rise in colorectal cancer (CRC) burden is expected around the globe. This study aimed to determine the population attributable fractions (PAFs) of CRC cases contributed by modifiable risk factors in Saudi Arabia. The PAF was calculated for modifiable risk factors with strong evidences of a causal association with CRC. CRC incidence was obtained from the National Cancer Registry, relative risks were retrieved from recent meta-analysis studies, and the prevalence of exposure to risk factors was obtained from national surveys. Conventional statistical formulas were used to calculate PAFs from registered CRC cases, stratified by sex. Three scenarios were proposed to make projections and present the expected effects of prevention interventions on the number of CRC cases in Saudi Arabia for 2025–2040. The results showed the largest fraction of attributable CRC cases among men and women was contributed by physical inactivity (16.13% and 16.45%), followed by excess weight (obesity: 9.71% and 6.93%; overweight: 6.05% and 1.9%); and tobacco smoking (current smoker: 3.04% and 0.18%; former smoker: 3.29% and 0.12%). We estimated that the number of projected cases attributable to physical inactivity, smoking, and excess weight in men and women would increase from 807 and 315 in 2025 to 1360 and 556 in 2040, respectively. In conclusion, physical inactivity, being overweight or obese, and tobacco smoking are major lifestyle factors affecting the incidence of CRC in Saudi Arabia. Prevention interventions and public health programs to reduce their prevalence are warranted.
The Association of Emotional and Physical Reactions to Perceived Discrimination with Depressive Symptoms Among African American Men in the Southeast
Authors: Wilkinson Larrell L. , Clay Olivio J. , Hood Anthony C. , Plaisance Eric P. , Kinnerson Lakesha , Beamon Brandon D. , Hector Dominique
Published: January 2020

This study examines the association of emotional and physical reactions to perceived discrimination with depressive symptoms among a sample of African American (AA) men in the southeastern United States. Analysis of the 2010 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data set provides an examination of demographic, perceived discrimination context, and health status differences in depressive symptoms measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire—2 (PHQ-2). The analysis also assesses individual differences among AA men related to experiencing physical symptoms and feeling emotionally upset due to perceived discrimination. A focused examination investigates the role of adverse reactions to perceived discrimination in association with depressive symptomology. Findings illuminate the significance of experiences of and reactions to perceived discrimination in relationship with depressive symptomology among AA men living in the southeastern United States. Findings also demonstrate the need for additional research focusing on perceived discrimination experiences in relation to depressive symptoms experienced among the AA male subgroup. Continued investigation of within-group differences among AA men, with health promotional strategies to foster social-emotional support, will further the improvement in health and wellness for AA men.
The Effects of the PLAYTOD Program on Children’s Physical Activity at Preschool Playgrounds in a Deprived Urban Area: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Toussaint Nicole , Streppel Martinette T. , Mul Sandra , Fukkink Ruben G. , Weijs Peter J.M. , Janssen Mirka
Published: January 2020

Interventions to improve children’s physical activity in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) settings are needed. This randomized controlled trial examines the effects of a preschool-based playground program for ECEC teachers in a deprived urban area. On intervention preschools, the PLAYgrounds for TODdlers program (PLAYTOD) was performed. It focused on teacher’s knowledge and skills in order to create a challenging outdoor environment in which young children (2.5 to 4 years old) are able to practice their motor skills. Observations were performed before and after the program with a modified version of the SOPLAY protocol. The activating role of teachers (score from 0 = inactive to 4 = participating), the number of different physical activities, and the quality of children’s physical activity on playgrounds were observed. The latter included the number of performed fundamental movement skills and the estimated physical activity intensity (score from 0 = sedentary to 3 = vigorous). Descriptive statistics and linear regression analyses were used to evaluate the effects of PLAYTOD. After the program, the activating role of teachers on intervention playgrounds improved. Moreover, the program and consecutively the changes made by teachers had a positive effect on the number of different activities and the quality of children’s physical activity. The results emphasize an important role for ECEC teachers in improving physical activity in young children.
Internalization of External Benefits Brought by Hydropower Development
Authors: Wang Huiyan , Li Yong , Li Jia , Yu Mengyuan
Published: January 2020

Hydropower development brings a very large number of external benefits which are enjoyed by the beneficiaries for free. These external benefits are defined and the beneficiaries are identified. Models to measure the external benefits are established to reflect their dynamic changes at different periods. To improve the benefit sharing mechanism, a model to internalize these external benefits is established to further compensate those adversely affected. The Z hydropower project in China is taken as the example to calculate its external benefits and their internalization. The external benefits enjoyed by beneficiaries in the surrounding and downstream areas gradually increase from 18 million US dollars in 2006 to 114 million US dollars in 2065, and their compensation standards increase from 4 million US dollars in 2006 to 97 million US dollars in 2065. The external benefits enjoyed by beneficiaries in the power receiving areas increase from 125 million US dollars in 2015 to the maximum of 133 million in 2026, and their compensation standards increase from 38 million US dollars in 2015 to the maximum of 133 million US dollars in 2033. Sharing of external benefits can improve the benefit-sharing mechanism, and properly redistribute the external benefits of hydropower development.
Effect of Parental Migration on the Intellectual and Physical Development of Early School-Aged Children in Rural China
Authors: Li Minmin , Zhu Ni , Zeng Lingxia , Wang Duolao , Dang Shaonong , Watson Victoria , Chen Tao , Hua Zhongqiu , Li Zhaoqing , Kang Yijun , Yan Hong , Li Chao
Published: January 2020

Objective: The purpose of this study is to estimate the effect of parent migration on intellectual and physical development of early school-aged children in rural China. Design: setting and participants: The present cross-sectional study participants were a subset from a controlled, cluster-randomized, double-blind trial. From October 2012 to September 2013, the offspring of women who participated in a large trial were examined in the present study. Wechsler intelligence scale for children (WISC-IV) in which validity and reliability were shown to be satisfactory was used to measure the intellectual function and trained anthropometrists measured weight and height of children using standard procedures. Results: The mean difference of FSIQ scores between non-migration and both-parent migration groups was −3.68 (95%CI: −5.49, −1.87). After adjusting for the confounders, the mean difference of full-scale IQ between non-migration and both-parent migration group was −1.97 (95%CI: −3.92, −0.01), the mean differences of perceptual reasoning index and processing speed index were −2.41 (95%CI: −4.50, −0.31) and −2.39 (95%CI: −4.42, −0.35) between two groups respectively. Conclusion: Our results emphasized the impairment of both-parental migration in intellectual function (FSIQ, PRI, PSI) of children. These findings have important policy implications for the Chinese government to prevent the impairment of left-behind children. Further research is required to clarify the mechanisms by which both-parental migration influence the impairment in intellectual function of children.
Health Risk Assessment Indicators for the Left-Behind Elderly in Rural China: A Delphi Study
Authors: Luo Ruzhen , Zhang Chunmei , Liu Yanhui
Published: January 2020

In China, many young and middle-aged rural residents move to urban areas each year. The rural elderly are left behind. The number of the rural left-behind elderly is increasing with urbanization, but it is unclear which indicators can be used to assess their health condition. The health risk assessment index system was developed to improve the health level of the rural left-behind elderly. A two-round web-based Delphi process was used to organize the recommendations from fifteen Chinese experts in geriatrics, health management, social psychology who participated in this study. Meaningfulness, importance, modifiability, and comprehensive value of the health risk assessment indicators in the index system were evaluated. The effective recovery rates of the two-round Delphi were 86.67% and 92.31%, respectively. The judgement coefficient and the authority coefficient were 0.87 and 0.82, respectively. The expert familiarity was 0.76. Ultimately, the health risk assessment index system for the rural left-behind elderly consisted of five first-level indicators, thirteen second-level indicators, and sixty-six third-level indicators. The final indicators can be used to evaluate the health of the rural left-behind elderly and provide the basis for additional health risk interventions.
Spatial and Temporal Evolution of the Infiltration Characteristics of a Loess Landslide
Authors: Yang Dongdong , Qiu Haijun , Pei Yanqian , Hu Sheng , Ma Shuyue , Liu Zijing , Zhang Yan , Cao Mingming
Published: January 2020

Infiltration plays an important role in influencing slope stability. However, the influences of slope failure on infiltration and the evolution of infiltration over time and space remain unclear. We studied and compared the infiltration rates in undisturbed loess and disturbed loess in different years and at different sites on loess landslide bodies. The results showed that the average initial infiltration rate in a new landslide body (triggered on 11 October 2017) were dramatically higher than those in a previous landslide body (triggered on 17 September 2011) and that the infiltration rates of both landslide types were higher than the rate of undisturbed loess. The initial infiltration rate in the new landslide body sharply decreased over the 4–5 months following the landslide because of the appearance of physical crusts. Our observations indicated that the infiltration rate of the disturbed soil in a landslide evolved over time and that the infiltration rate gradually approached that of undisturbed loess. Furthermore, in the undisturbed loess, both the initial and quasi-steady infiltration rates were slightly higher in the loess than in the paleosol, and in the previous landslide body, the infiltration rate was highest in the upper part, intermediate in the middle part, and lowest in the lower part. This study can help us to better understand the evolution process of infiltration in undisturbed loess, previous landslides, and new landslides.
Joint Simulation of Spatially Correlated Soil Health Indicators, Using Independent Component Analysis and Minimum/Maximum Autocorrelation Factors
Authors: Boluwade Alaba
Published: January 2020

Soil health plays a major role in the ability of any nation to meet the Sustainable Development Goals. Understanding the spatial variability of soil health indicators (SHIs) may help decision makers develop effective policy strategies and make appropriate management decisions. SHIs are often spatially correlated, and if this is the case, a geostatistical model is required to capture the spatial interactions and uncertainty. Geostatistical simulation provides equally probable realizations that can account for uncertainty in the variables. This study used the following SHIs extracted from the Africa Soil Information Service “Legacy Database” for Nigeria: bulk density, organic matter, and total nitrogen. Maximum and minimum autocorrelation factors (MAF) and independent component analysis (ICA) are two techniques that can be used to transform correlated SHIs into uncorrelated factors/components that can be simulated independently. To confirm spatial orthogonality, the relative deviation from orthogonality, τ(h), and spatial diagonalization efficiency, k(h), approach 0 and 1 for both techniques. To validate the performance of each technique, 100 equally probable realizations were simulated by using MAF and ICA. Direct and cross-variograms showed adequate reproduction, using E-type, where E was defined as the “conditional expectation” of realizations (i.e., average estimate of realizations). It should be noted that only direct variograms of MAF and ICA were independently simulated. The average of 100 back-transformed simulated realizations and randomly selected realizations compared well with the original variables, in terms of spatial distribution, correlation, and pattern. Overall, both techniques were able to reproduce important geostatistical features of the original variables, making them important in joint simulations of spatially correlated variables in soil management.