bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Runners Employ Different Strategies to Cope With Increased Speeds Based on Their Initial Strike Patterns
Authors: Ekizos Antonis , Santuz Alessandro , Arampatzis Adamantios
Published: November 2021

In this paper we examined how runners with different initial foot strike pattern (FSP) develop their pattern over increasing speeds. The foot strike index (FSI) of 47 runners [66% initially rearfoot strikers (RFS)] was measured in six speeds (2.5–5.0 ms−1), with the hypotheses that the FSI would increase (i.e., move toward the fore of the foot) in RFS strikers, but remain similar in mid- or forefoot strikers (MFS) runners. The majority of runners (77%) maintained their original FSP by increasing speed. However, we detected a significant (16.8%) decrease in the FSI in the MFS group as a function of running speed, showing changes in the running strategy, despite the absence of a shift from one FSP to another. Further, while both groups showed a decrease in contact times, we found a group by speed interaction (p < 0.001) and specifically that this decrease was lower in the MFS group with increasing running speeds. This could have implications in the metabolic energy consumption for MFS-runners, typically measured at low speeds for the assessment of running economy.
Influence of Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes on Calcium Handling by Skeletal Muscle: Spotlight on the Sarcoplasmic Reticulum and Mitochondria
Authors: Eshima Hiroaki
Published: November 2021

Obesity and diabetes have been shown to interfere with energy metabolism and cause peripheral insulin resistance in skeletal muscle. However, recent studies have focused on the effect metabolic insult has on the loss of muscle size, strength, and physical function. Contractile dysfunction has been linked to impaired intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) regulation. In skeletal muscle, [Ca2+]i homeostasis is highly regulated by Ca2+ transport across the sarcolemma/plasma membrane, the golgi apparatus, sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), and mitochondria. Particularly, the SR and or mitochondria play an important role in the fine-tuning of this metabolic process. Recent studies showed that obesity and insulin resistance are associated with interactions between the SR and mitochondrial networks (the dynamic tubular reticulum formed by mitochondria), suggesting that metabolic disorders alter Ca2+ handling by these organelles. These interactions are facilitated by specific membrane proteins, including ion channels. This review considers the impact of metabolic disorders, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, on the regulation of [Ca2+]i in skeletal muscle. It also discusses the mechanisms by which this occurs, focusing chiefly on the SR and mitochondria networks. A deeper understanding of the effect of metabolic disorders on calcium handling might be useful for therapeutic strategies.
The Who or the How? Species vs. Ecosystem Function Priorities in Conservation Ecology
Authors: Leuzinger Sebastian , Rewald Boris
Published: November 2021

Current conservation strategies are targeted at preserving species, without explicitly aiming at the maintenance of ecosystem functions. In a physically highly connected world, the unintentional relocation of terrestrial, marine, and microbial life is therefore unavoidable and has been an integral part of human evolution for thousands of years. Here, we challenge the default perception often shared among conservation ecologists that preserving native species at all costs and reducing the number of exotic species and their abundance is the only way to conservation and restoration success. While this strategy is valuable in cases where exotic species disrupt ecological function, there are examples where exotic species have similar functional traits to the threatened or extinct native species and can in fact help maintain the overall or target function of an ecosystem. In the race to cope with global environmental change, we argue that ecosystem function and ecosystem services need to be viewed not only through a taxonomic lens, but increasingly also through a functional, trait-based one.
Cambial Activity of Moringa peregrina (Forssk.) Fiori in Arid Environments
Authors: Gärtner Holger , Farahat Emad
Published: November 2021

Moringa peregrina (Forssk.) Fiori, one of 13 species of the Moringaceae family widely distributed throughout the dry tropics, has the potential to become one of the most economically important medicinal plants in Egypt. However, despite its tolerance for drought and heat, it is also threatened by increasing temperatures and decreasing precipitation. Although the phenophase of this species is well documented, almost nothing is known about its period of cambial activity in desert regions. Ring formation and the general environmental adaptability of trees are affected by the timing of cambial activation. In our study site, we observe a distinct coupling of the development of new green leaves at the onset of vegetative growth in October and the phase of cambial activity (November–January). The onset of cambial activity seems to be related to a drop in temperature in October and the onset of torrential rains in the region. There might even be a short phase between the end of cambial activity and the onset of bud formation without xylem formation, but with photosynthetic activity. If so, we assume that all assimilates are stored as non-structural carbohydrates (NSC) in the parenchyma of the new ring. This potential gap opens new questions regarding the correlation between NSC storage capacity and the timing of remobilization for subsequent ring formation.
N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase II Is Involved in Plant Growth and Development Under Stress Conditions
Authors: Yoo Jae Yong , Ko Ki Seong , Vu Bich Ngoc , Lee Young Eun , Yoon Seok Han , Pham Thao Thi , Kim Ji-Yeon , Lim Jae-Min , Kang Yang Jae , Hong Jong Chan , Lee Kyun Oh
Published: November 2021

Alpha-1,6-mannosyl-glycoprotein 2-β-N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase [EC 2.4.1.143, N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase II (GnTII)] catalyzes the transfer of N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) residue from the nucleotide sugar donor UDP-GlcNAc to the α1,6-mannose residue of the di-antennary N-glycan acceptor GlcNAc(Xyl)Man3(Fuc)GlcNAc2 in the Golgi apparatus. Although the formation of the GlcNAc2(Xyl)Man3(Fuc)GlcNAc2 N-glycan is known to be associated with GnTII activity in Arabidopsis thaliana, its physiological significance is still not fully understood in plants. To address the physiological importance of the GlcNAc2(Xyl)Man3(Fuc)GlcNAc2 N-glycan, we examined the phenotypic effects of loss-of-function mutations in GnTII in the presence and absence of stress, and responsiveness to phytohormones. Prolonged stress induced by tunicamycin (TM) or sodium chloride (NaCl) treatment increased GnTII expression in wild-type Arabidopsis (ecotype Col-0) but caused severe developmental damage in GnTII loss-of-function mutants (gnt2-1 and gnt2-2). The absence of the 6-arm GlcNAc residue in the N-glycans in gnt2-1 facilitated the TM-induced unfolded protein response, accelerated dark-induced leaf senescence, and reduced cytokinin signaling, as well as susceptibility to cytokinin-induced root growth inhibition. Furthermore, gnt2-1 and gnt2-2 seedlings exhibited enhanced N-1-naphthylphthalamic acid-induced inhibition of tropic growth and development. Thus, GnTII’s promotion of the 6-arm GlcNAc addition to N-glycans is important for plant growth and development under stress conditions, possibly via affecting glycoprotein folding and/or distribution.
Over-Time Trends in Incivility on Social Media: Evidence From Political, Non-Political, and Mixed Sub-Reddits Over Eleven Years
Authors: Sun Qiusi , Wojcieszak Magdalena , Davidson Sam
Published: November 2021

Incivility in social media has become a major concern of the public, who perceive uncivil online interactions to be both widespread and increasing. This study provides a descriptive account of incivility dynamics over the past 11 years by examining the trends of incivility in three main categories of social media interactions: political, mixed, and non-political. Using longitudinal data from Reddit that accounts for 95% of the entire Reddit universe across 11 years and relying on the combination of supervised machine learning models and traditional statistical inference, the study found that incivility consistently represents around 10% of total Reddit comments. Additionally, political groups tend to be more uncivil, and discussions in mixed groups that are not overtly political but nevertheless discuss politics are less uncivil than in political groups. We also found that the fluctuations of incivility correspond to offline events and platform-specific policies.
Longshot or Favorite: The Ending Effect in Investment Decisions
Authors: Wang Qi , Zhang JiaYuan , Xing Cai
Published: November 2021

The ending effect describes the phenomenon that at the end of a series of repeated risky decision-making tasks, participants become more likely to engage in risk-taking behavior. Past research has suggested that the ending effect might be caused by a motivational shift induced by changes in time perception. Previous studies mainly tested this phenomenon in a binary decision-making setting (e.g., a decision-making task usually includes two alternatives). However, none of these prior studies included safe options and risky options that differed in risk levels. To address this knowledge gap, the present study replicated the ending effect in a repeated decision-making task that included both a safe option and risky options that differed in risk levels (N = 104). We found that at the end of the decision-making task, participants became more likely to engage in risk-taking and to favor the option with the highest risk. Further, we found that the investment likelihood and investment amount of high-risk options both increased significantly at the ending. In addition, a shift in favoring the safe option emerged in the noninformed condition at the end. We also found that the emotional motivation in the last round could predict the increased preference for high-risk at the ending. This study extended previous findings on the ending effect by adopting a more complex decision-making scenario and, more broadly, helped further our understanding of the psychological consequences of perceived endings.
The Complex Molecular Picture of Gut and Oral Microbiota–Brain-Depression System: What We Know and What We Need to Know
Authors: Scassellati Catia , Marizzoni Moira , Cattane Nadia , Lopizzo Nicola , Mombelli Elisa , Riva Marco Andrea , Cattaneo Annamaria
Published: November 2021

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a complex mental disorder where the neurochemical, neuroendocrine, immune, and metabolic systems are impaired. The microbiota-gut-brain axis is a bidirectional network where the central and enteric nervous systems are linked through the same endocrine, immune, neural, and metabolic routes dysregulated in MDD. Thus, gut-brain axis abnormalities in MDD patients may, at least in part, account for the symptomatic features associated with MDD. Recent investigations have suggested that the oral microbiome also plays a key role in this complex molecular picture of relationships. As on one hand there is a lot of what we know and on the other hand little of what we still need to know, we structured this review focusing, in the first place, on putting all pieces of this complex puzzle together, underlying the endocrine, immune, oxidative stress, neural, microbial neurotransmitters, and metabolites molecular interactions and systems lying at the base of gut microbiota (GM)–brain-depression interphase. Then, we focused on promising but still under-explored areas of research strictly linked to the GM and potentially involved in MDD development: (i) the interconnection of GM with oral microbiome that can influence the neuroinflammation-related processes and (ii) gut phageome (bacteria-infecting viruses). As conclusions and future directions, we discussed potentiality but also pitfalls, roadblocks, and the gaps to be bridged in this exciting field of research. By the development of a broader knowledge of the biology associated with MDD, with the inclusion of the gut/oral microbiome, we can accelerate the growth toward a better global health based on precision medicine.
Does Seeing What Others Do Through Social Media Influence Vaccine Uptake and Help in the Herd Immunity Through Vaccination? A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Al-Hasan Abrar , Khuntia Jiban , Yim Dobin
Published: November 2021

Widespread acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination is the next major step in fighting the pandemic. However, significant variations are observed in the willingness to take the vaccination by citizens across different countries. Arguably, differences in vaccination intentions will be influenced by beliefs around vaccines to influence health. Often perceptions of what others are doing and the information available guide individuals' behaviors for vaccination. This is more so in the digital age with the influence of the internet and media. This study aims to determine the factors that impact willingness to vaccinate for COVID-19. We examined factors associated with acceptance of vaccine based on (1) constructs of the Health Belief Model (HBM), (2) sources of information, (3) social media usage, (4) knowledge of COVID-19 treatment, and (5) perception of government's efforts for mitigation. Randomly sampled online survey data was collected by a global firm between December 2020 and January 2021 from 372 citizens (with a response rate of 96.6%) from multiple regions, including North America, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. Ordered probit regression suggests that the health belief model constructs hold. Perceived severity of COVID-19 (P < 0.001) and action cues of others taking the vaccine positively influences a subject's vaccine intent (P < 0.001), perceived benefits and perceived efficacy of the vaccine positively influences a subject's vaccine intent (P < 0.001). Perceived barriers negatively influence vaccine intent (P < 0.001). Interestingly as for media usage, mainstream media (e.g., TV, newspaper) (P = 0.006) and social media (P = 0.013) both negatively influence a subject's vaccine intent. Social media platforms that are more entertainment and social-based, such as Whatsapp, Instagram, and YouTube, have a negative and significant influence on vaccine intent (P = 0.061), compared to other more information-based social media platforms (e.g., Twitter, LinkedIn). Knowledge of COVID-19 treatment positively influences vaccine intent (P = 0.023). Lastly, governmental efforts' perceived reliability in mitigation strategy (P = 0.028) and response efforts (P = 0.004) negatively influence vaccine intent. The study highlights the “wait-and-see” action cue from others and leaders in the community. It also informs the importance of shaping media information for vaccination through informative media and social media outlets to counteract any misinformation.
Testing Extended Parallel Processing Model in the Korean COVID-19 Context: Effect of Moral Intuitions as Moderators
Authors: Ahn Changhyun , Noh Ghee Young
Published: November 2021

Despite the possible social implications of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), previous studies of the extended parallel processing model (EPPM) in the context of COVID-19 overlooked the emotional aspects when processing fear-inducing COVID-19-related messages. Drawing upon the moral foundation theory (MFT), this study aimed to (a) apply EPPM in the Korean COVID-19 context, (b) introduce MFT and explain why moral intuitions can be related to the processing of COVID-19 messages, and (c) examine the moderating role of moral intuitions in the EPPM model. Based on the theoretical backgrounds, this study tested EPPM hypotheses and also tested whether moral intuition can moderate the relationship between perceived self-efficacy, perceived threat, fear of COVID-19, and health compliance behavioral intention. This study conducted an online survey using measurements of perceived self-efficacy, perceived threat, MFQ-20, fear of COVID, and health compliance. Our study showed three main findings. First, our study found the main effects of (a) self-efficacy on health compliance behavioral intention and (b) perceived threat on health compliance behavioral intention. Second, our study found that morality moderated the main effects of self-efficacy or perceived threat and also moderated EPPM interaction on fear of COVID. Third, the moderation of morality in the relationship between self-efficacy and health compliance behavioral intention showed that health compliance intention decreased as morality increased. Our findings suggest that people can consider COVID-19 as a social and moral issue that involves protecting others.
Deliberate Practice and Motor Learning Principles to Underpin the Design of Training Interventions for Improving Lifting Movement in the Occupational Sector: A Perspective and a Pilot Study on the Role of Augmented Feedback
Authors: Oppici Luca , Grütters Kim , Garofolini Alessandro , Rosenkranz Robert , Narciss Susanne
Published: November 2021

Spine posture during repetitive lifting is one of the main risk factors for low-back injuries in the occupational sector. It is thus critical to design appropriate intervention strategies for training workers to improve their posture, reducing load on the spine during lifting. The main approach to train safe lifting to workers has been educational; however, systematic reviews and meta-analyses have shown that this approach does not improve lifting movement nor reduces the risk of low back injury. One of the main limitations of this approach lies in the amount, quality and context of practice of the lifting movement. In this article, first we argue for integrating psychologically-grounded perspectives of practice design in the development of training interventions for safe lifting. Principles from deliberate practice and motor learning are combined and integrated. Given the complexity of lifting, a training intervention should occur in the workplace and invite workers to repeatedly practice/perform the lifting movement with the clear goal of improving their lifting-related body posture. Augmented feedback has a central role in creating the suitable condition for achieving such intervention. Second, we focus on spine bending as risk factor and present a pilot study examining the benefits and boundary conditions of different feedback modalities for reducing bending during lifting. The results showed how feedback modalities meet differently key requirements of deliberate practice conditions, i.e., feedback has to be informative, individualized and actionable. Following the proposed approach, psychology will gain an active role in the development of training interventions, contributing to finding solutions for a reduction of risk factors for workers.
Improving Nitrogen Use Efficiency—A Key for Sustainable Rice Production Systems
Authors: Chivenge Pauline , Sharma Sheetal , Bunquin Michelle Anne , Hellin Jon
Published: November 2021

Fertilizer use and genetic improvement of cereal crops contributed to increased yields and greater food security in the last six decades. For rice, however, fertilizer use has outpaced improvement in yield. Excess application of nutrients beyond crop needs, especially nitrogen (N), is associated with losses to the environment. Environmental pollution can be mitigated by addressing fertilizer overuse, improving N use efficiency, while maintaining or improving rice productivity and farmers' income. A promising approach is the site-specific nutrient management (SSNM), developed in the 1990s to optimize supply to meet demand of nutrients, initially for rice, but now extended to other crops. The SSNM approach has been further refined with the development of digital decision support tools such as Rice Crop Manager, Nutrient Expert, and RiceAdvice. This enables more farmers to benefit from SSNM recommendations. In this mini-review, we show how SSNM can foster sustainability in rice production systems through improved rice yields, profit, and N use efficiency while reducing N losses. Farmer adoption of SSNM, however, remains low. National policies and incentives, financial investments, and strengthened extension systems are needed to enhance scaling of SSNM-based decision support tools.
Case Report: Internal Carotid Artery Thrombosis: A Rare Complication After Fibrin Glue Injection for Cavernous Sinus Hemostasis
Authors: Andrade-Barazarte Hugo , Chen Zhongcan , Feng Chenyi , Srinivasan Visish M. , Furey Charuta G. , Lawton Michael T. , Hernesniemi Juha
Published: November 2021

Background: Fibrin glue injection within the cavernous sinus (CS) is a demonstrably safe and simple technique to control venous bleeding with a low complication rate. However, this technique does have inherent risks. We illustrate 2 cases of internal carotid artery (ICA) thrombosis after fibrin glue injection in the CS for hemostasis.

Methods: After encountering this complication recently, we conducted a retrospective review of the surgical database of 2 senior neurosurgeons who specialize in cerebrovascular and skull base surgery to identify patients with any complications associated with the use of fibrin glue injection for hemostasis. Approval was given by respective institutional review boards, and patient consent was obtained.

Results: Of more than 10,000 microsurgery procedures performed by 2 senior neurosurgeons with a combined experience of 40 years, including procedures for aneurysms and skull base tumors, 2 cases were identified involving ICA thrombosis after fibrin glue injection in the CS for hemostasis. Both cases involved severe ischemic complications as a result of the ICA thrombosis. In this article, we present their clinical presentation, characteristics, management, and outcomes.

Conclusion: Direct injection of fibrin glue into the CS for hemostasis can effectively control venous bleeding and facilitate complex dissections. However, it can be associated with ICA thrombosis, with subsequent serious ischemia and poor prognosis. Although this complication appears to be rare, increased awareness of this problem should temper the routine use of fibrin glue in anterior clinoidectomy and transcavernous approaches.
Serotypes, Virulence-Associated Factors, and Antimicrobial Resistance of Streptococcus suis Isolates Recovered From Sick and Healthy Pigs Determined by Whole-Genome Sequencing
Authors: Aradanas Maverick , Poljak Zvonimir , Fittipaldi Nahuel , Ricker Nicole , Farzan Abdolvahab
Published: November 2021

Streptococcus suis is ubiquitous in swine, and yet, only a small percentage of pigs become clinically ill. The objective of this study was to describe the distribution of serotypes, virulence-associated factor (VAF), and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes in S. suis isolates recovered from systemic (blood, meninges, spleen, and lymph node) and non-systemic (tonsil, nasal cavities, ileum, and rectum) sites of sick and healthy pigs using whole-genome sequencing. In total, 273 S. suis isolates recovered from 112 pigs (47 isolates from systemic and 136 from non-systemic sites of 65 sick pigs; 90 isolates from non-systemic sites of 47 healthy pigs) on 17 Ontario farms were subjected to whole-genome sequencing. Using in silico typing, 21 serotypes were identified with serotypes 9 (13.9%) and 2 (8.4%) as the most frequent serotypes, whereas 53 (19.4%) isolates remained untypable. The relative frequency of VAF genes in isolates from systemic (Kruskal–Wallis, p < 0.001) and non-systemic (Kruskal–Wallis, p < 0.001) sites in sick pigs was higher compared with isolates from non-systemic sites in healthy pigs. Although many VAF genes were abundant in all isolates, three genes, including dltA [Fisher's test (FT), p < 0.001], luxS (FT, p = 0.01), and troA (FT, p = 0.02), were more prevalent in isolates recovered from systemic sites compared with non-systemic sites of pigs. Among the isolates, 98% had at least one AMR gene, and 79% had genes associated with at least four drug classes. The most frequently detected AMR genes were tetO conferring resistance to tetracycline and ermB conferring resistance to macrolide, lincosamide, and streptogramin. The wide distribution of VAFs genes in S. suis isolates in this study suggests that other host and environmental factors may contribute to S. suis disease development.
Evaluating Integrated Surveillance for Antimicrobial Use and Resistance in England: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Bennani Houda , Cornelsen Laura , Stärk Katharina D. C. , Häsler Barbara
Published: November 2021

Integrated surveillance systems for antimicrobial use (AMU) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) require regular evaluation to ensure the effectiveness and efficiency of the system. An important step in the evaluation is to choose an appropriate tool for the purpose of the evaluation. The “Integrated Surveillance System Evaluation” (ISSE) framework is a conceptual framework that was developed to evaluate One Health (OH) integration in surveillance system for AMU/AMR. This study aimed to evaluate the performance and value of integrated surveillance system for AMU/AMR in England by applying the ISSE framework, which was used to develop data collection protocols and define the study design. A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted to collect the data and analyse it thematically. Eighteen stakeholders from human, animal, food and environment sectors that are involved in AMU/AMR surveillance were interviewed. Four main themes emerged from the analysis: (1) Cross-sectoral integration in the surveillance system for AMU/AMR; (2) Production of OH outputs and outcomes; (3) Drivers and barriers to cross-sectoral collaboration; and 4) Need for more cross-sectoral collaboration. The findings showed that there were links between integrated surveillance information, decision making and interventions. However, there were only few OH examples, such as the UK AMR contingency plan, where the potential of cross-sectoral collaboration was fully exploited. A lot of the benefits described were related to the generation of information and increase in knowledge and understanding without links to how the information generated was used. While these intangible benefits have a value on their own, being able to link surveillance information and mitigation measures would help to enhance the value of integrated surveillance. In terms of improvement, the main areas identified were the development of more harmonised methods for data collection and analysis, provision of resources dedicated to cross-sectoral collaboration, improved coordination, and collection of surveillance data from the environment and from companion animals. By identifying links between OH surveillance information produced and various outputs and outcomes; this study helped to understand the wider benefits of integrated surveillance for AMU/AMR in England and provided insights on how the system could be improved and efficiency increased.
Autophagy in Femoral Head Necrosis of Broilers Bone Metabolism Parameters and Autophagy-Related Gene Expression in Femoral Head Necrosis Induced by Glucocorticoid in Broilers
Authors: Pang Kaiyi , Wang Shujie , Li Meng , Zhou Zhenlei
Published: November 2021

Objectives: In this study, the influence of methylprednisolone (MP) and 3-methyladenine (3-MA) on chondrocyte autophagy and bone quality were determined to investigate the mechanisms of femoral head necrosis in broilers.

Methods: Chickens were divided into four groups: control, MP, 3-MA, and 3-MA+MP groups. Blood and bone samples were collected for biochemistry assay and bone quality determination. Cartilage was separated from the femoral head for histopathological analysis and gene expression detection.

Results: The results indicated that MP treatment significantly affected blood levels of alkaline phosphatase, high-density lipoprotein, calcium, phosphorus, bone alkaline phosphatase, and osteocalcin in broilers. Additionally, MP treatment significantly increased blood levels of cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, triglyceride, carboxy-terminal telopeptide of type-I collagen, and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5. MP treatment also significantly decreased the levels of bone parameters compared with these values in controls, inhibited the expression of collagen-2, aggrecan, and mammalian target of rapamycin, and increased the expression of beclin1 and microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3, hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha, phosphoinositide 3-kinase, protein kinase B and autophagy-related gene 5 of the femoral head. Furthermore, following co-treatment with 3-MA and MP, 3-MA mitigated the effects of MP.

Conclusions: Our findings demonstrated that autophagy may be involved in the pathogenesis of femoral head necrosis induced by MP in broilers, and this study provides new treatment and prevention ideas for femoral head necrosis caused by glucocorticoids.
Genetic Analysis of Yield and Quality Traits in Switchgrass Based on Population Crosses
Authors: Edmé Serge , Mitchell Rob
Published: November 2021

Obtaining greater genetic gains, particularly for biomass yield, requires a good understanding of the gene action governing the inheritance of traits with economic importance in switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.). Individual genotypes from three different accessions were crossed in single-pair matings with reciprocals to assess the relative importance of additive to nonadditive genetic variation and the potential of using inter-ecotypic crosses to improve dry matter yield (DMY), in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), lignin content (ADL and KL), and ethanol yield (ETOH). Crosses and four reference populations were planted in a randomized complete block design with eight replications of single family-rows plots, with five-plants each and 1 m spacings. A linear mixed model was applied as per the restricted maximum likelihood method, integrated with a pedigree tracing back to the original founders of these parental populations, and augmented with the designation of four genetic groups. Variation due to SCA (specific combining ability) was predominant for all traits, contributing from 20% to 57% of the total phenotypic variation and with Baker’s ratios (GCA/SCA) varying from 0.003 to 0.67. Heritability values calculated at the fullsib-family mean level were moderate to very high. Variation due to GCA (general combining ability) was detected with a lesser significance for DMY and ETOH. A reciprocal GCA effect was present in the form of maternal inheritance for DMY, suggesting the use of the highest biomass-yielding parent as female in inter-ecotypic breeding. Selecting and deploying fullsib families, deploying clonal hybrids, and adopting an introgression breeding approach are all possibilities available to switchgrass breeders to exploit the complementary genes from this germplasm and capitalize on the non-additive genetic variation present in these crosses.
Amending Potassic Fertilizer with Charcoal and Sago (Metroxylon sagu) Bark Ash to Improve Potassium Availability in a Tropical Acid Soil
Authors: Paramisparam Puvan , Ahmed Osumanu Haruna , Omar Latifah , Ch’ng Huck Ywih , Maru Ali , Johan Prisca Divra
Published: November 2021

In Ultisols and Oxisols, potassium (K) in the soil solution is leached from the rhizosphere before it interacts with soil colloids, or exchanged with other cations at the exchange sites of the soils because of the abundance of kaolinite clay minerals. These soils are highly weathered, low in organic matter, and low in pH, but high aluminium (Al) and iron (Fe) ions. Hence, K becomes unavailable for plants, and this compromises crop production and farmers’ profitability. The pH neutralizing effects of sago (Metroxylon sagu) bark ash and the ability of charcoal to chelate Al and Fe could be utilized to improve soil pH, reduce soil acidity, and improve K availability. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of amending muriate of potash (MOP) with charcoal and sago bark ash on selected soil chemical properties in a tropical acid soil (Typic Paleudults) over 90 days in a laboratory incubation. The proportions of charcoal and sago bark ash were varied at 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%, but the MOP was fixed at 100% of the recommended rate. Selected soil chemical properties before and after incubation were determined using standard procedures. Results revealed that co-application of the soil amendments with MOP increased soil-exchangeable K compared with conventional practice. Moreover, amending the acid soil with charcoal and sago bark ash positively enhanced the availability of other base cations and soil cation exchange capacity (CEC). This was possible because the amendments increased soil pH and reduced exchangeable acidity, exchangeable Al3+, and exchangeable Fe2+. However, there was no significant improvement in water-soluble K (WSK) in the soil with or without charcoal and sago bark over the 90 days laboratory study. The findings of this study suggested that increasing soil pH could potentially improve soil K sorption capacity. Thus, the optimum rates of charcoal and sago bark ash to increase K availability were found to be 80% charcoal with 80% sago bark ash, 60% charcoal with 60% sago bark ash, and 80% charcoal with 40% sago bark ash, because these rates improved soil-exchangeable K+ and CEC significantly, besides minimizing soil-exchangeable acidity.
Molecular Characterization of Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Isolated from the Intensive Care Unit in a Tertiary Teaching Hospital in Malaysia
Authors: Woon Jia Jie , Teh Cindy Shuan Ju , Chong Chun Wie , Abdul Jabar Kartini , Ponnampalavanar Sasheela , Idris Nuryana
Published: November 2021

The emergence of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) has now become a global sentinel event. CRAB infections often instigate severe clinical complications and are potentially fatal, especially for debilitated patients. The present study aimed to conduct molecular characterization on CRAB isolated from patients in the intensive care unit from 2015 to 2016 and determine the risk factors associated with patients’ mortality. One hundred CRAB isolates were retrospectively selected and included in this study. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed that all isolates remained susceptible to colistin, even though 62% of them conferred resistance to all other classes of antibiotics tested. OXA carbapenemase gene was found to be the predominant carbapenemase gene, with 99% of the isolates coharbouring blaOXA-23-like and blaOXA-51-like carbapenemase genes. All isolates were carrying intact CarO genes, with the presence of various degree of nucleotide insertion, deletion and substitution. Overall, PFGE subtyped the isolates into 13 distinct pulsotypes, with the presence of 2 predominant pulsotypes. Univariate analysis implied that age, infection/colonization by CRAB, ethnicity, comorbidity and CRAB specimen source were significantly associated with in-hospital mortality. Multivariate analysis identified a higher risk of mortality for patients who are of Chinese ethnicity with diabetes as an underlying disease. As CRAB infection could lead to high rate of mortality, comprehensive infection control measures are needed to minimize the spread of this pathogen.
Interferences of Waxes on Enzymatic Saccharification and Ethanol Production from Lignocellulose Biomass
Authors: Gundupalli Marttin Paulraj , Chuetor Santi , Cheenkachorn Kraipat , Rattanaporn Kittipong , Show Pau-Loke , Cheng Yu-Shen , Sriariyanun Malinee
Published: November 2021

Wax is an organic compound found on the surface of lignocellulose biomass to protect plants from physical and biological stresses in nature. With its small mass fraction in biomass, wax has been neglected from inclusion in the design of the biorefinery process. This study investigated the interfering effect of wax in three types of lignocellulosic biomass, including rice straw (RS), Napier grass (NG), and sugarcane bagasse (SB). In this study, although small fractions of wax were extracted from RS, NG, and SB at 0.57%, 0.61%, and 1.69%, respectively, dewaxing causes changes in the plant compositions and their functional groups and promotes dissociations of lignocellulose fibrils. Additionally, dewaxing of biomass samples increased reducing sugar by 1.17-, 1.04-, and 1.35-fold in RS, NG, and SB, respectively. The ethanol yield increased by 1.11-, 1.05-, and 1.23-fold after wax removal from RS, NG, and SB, respectively. The chemical composition profiles of the waxes obtained from RS, NG, and SB showed FAME, alcohol, and alkane as the major groups. According to the conversion rate of the dewaxing process and ethanol fermentation, the wax outputs of RS, NG, and SB are 5.64, 17.00, and 6.00 kg/ton, respectively. The current gasoline price is around USD 0.903 per liter, making ethanol more expensive than gasoline. Therefore, in order to reduce the cost of ethanol in the biorefinery industry, other valuable products (such as wax) should be considered for commercialization. The cost of natural wax ranges from USD 2 to 22 per kilogram, depending on the source of the extracted wax. The wax yields obtained from RS, SB, and NG have the potential to increase profits in the biorefining process and could provide an opportunity for application in a wider range of downstream industries than just biofuels.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Influence Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells, and Constitute a Promising Therapy for Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Lee Chanbin , Kim Minju , Han Jinsol , Yoon Myunghee , Jung Youngmi
Published: November 2021

Liver fibrosis is a common feature of chronic liver disease. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the main drivers of extracellular matrix accumulation in liver fibrosis. Hence, a strategy for regulating HSC activation is crucial in treating liver fibrosis. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent stem cells derived from various post-natal organs. Therapeutic approaches involving MSCs have been studied extensively in various diseases, including liver disease. MSCs modulate hepatic inflammation and fibrosis and/or differentiate into hepatocytes by interacting directly with immune cells, HSCs, and hepatocytes and secreting modulators, thereby contributing to reduced liver fibrosis. Cell-free therapy including MSC-released secretomes and extracellular vesicles has elicited extensive attention because they could overcome MSC transplantation limitations. Herein, we provide basic information on hepatic fibrogenesis and the therapeutic potential of MSCs. We also review findings presenting the effects of MSC itself and MSC-based cell-free treatments in liver fibrosis, focusing on HSC activation. Growing evidence supports the anti-fibrotic function of either MSC itself or MSC modulators, although the mechanism underpinning their effects on liver fibrosis has not been established. Further studies are required to investigate the detailed mechanism explaining their functions to expand MSC therapies using the cell itself and cell-free treatments for liver fibrosis.
An Aptamer-Array-Based Sample-to-Answer Biosensor for Ochratoxin A Detection via Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer
Authors: Li Yongning , Peng Zhenfei , Li Yaxi , Xiao Min , Tan Gongjun , Wang Wenlian , Wang Yu , Fang Min , Zhang Shu , Tang Chenling , Yang Bowen , Wu Tianfu
Published: November 2021

Food toxins are a hidden threat that can cause cancer and tremendously impact human health. Therefore, the detection of food toxins in a timely manner with high sensitivity is of paramount importance for public health and food safety. However, the current detection methods are relatively time-consuming and not practical for field tests. In the present work, we developed a novel aptamer-chip-based sample-to-answer biosensor (ACSB) for ochratoxin A (OTA) detection via fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET). In this system, a cyanine 3 (Cy3)-labeled OTA-specific biotinylated aptamer was immobilized on an epoxy-coated chip via streptavidin-biotin binding. A complementary DNA strand to OTA aptamer at the 3′-end was labeled with a black hole quencher 2 (BHQ2) to quench Cy3 fluorescence when in proximity. In the presence of OTA, the Cy3-labeled OTA aptamer bound specifically to OTA and led to the physical separation of Cy3 and BHQ2, which resulted in an increase of fluorescence signal. The limit of detection (LOD) of this ACSB for OTA was 0.005 ng/mL with a linearity range of 0.01–10 ng/mL. The cross-reactivity of ACSB against other mycotoxins, ochratoxin B (OTB), aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), zearalenone (ZEA), or deoxynilvalenol (DON), was less than 0.01%. In addition, this system could accurately detect OTA in rice samples spiked with OTA, and the mean recovery rate of the spiked-in OTA reached 91%, with a coefficient of variation (CV) of 8.57–9.89%. Collectively, the ACSB may represent a rapid, accurate, and easy-to-use platform for OTA detection with high sensitivity and specificity.
Colonic Volvulus in Children: Surgical Management of a Challenging Condition
Authors: Destro Francesca , Maestri Luciano , Meroni Milena , Campari Alessandro , Pederiva Federica , Costanzo Sara , Del Re Giulia , Roveri Margherita , Zuccotti Gianvincenzo , Calcaterra Valeria , Pelizzo Gloria
Published: November 2021

Colonic volvulus (CV) is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition with unclear etiopathogenesis. To date, less than 80 pediatric cases have been described. Hirschsprung’s disease (HD) is associated with CV in 17% of cases, representing a significant risk factor. Non-HD CV is an even more complex entity. The aim of this study is to describe a series of patients with CV to accentuate some peculiar aspects of this disease. We performed a retrospective study (period: 2012–2021) collecting information of patients with CV. Data analyzed included: demographics, medical history, presenting symptoms and radiological and surgical details. Eleven patients (12.5 ± 2.8 years; 7F/4M) had CV (eight sigmoid, two transverse colon, one total colon). Five patients had associated anomalies and three had HD. A two-step approach with volvulus endoscopic/radiological detorsion followed by intestinal resection was attempted in eight cases (one endoscopic approach failed). Three patients required surgery at admission. At follow-up, two patients developed recurrent intestinal obstruction, one of whom also had anastomotic stenosis. Colonic volvulus is a challenging condition that requires prompt patient care. A missed diagnosis could lead to severe complications. The evaluation of the patient should include a careful histological examination (searching for HD and alpha-actin deficiency), immunologic and metabolic screening, neurological tests and detection of chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIPO). Lifelong follow-up is mandatory for the early recognition and treatment of progressive diseases involving the proximal gastrointestinal tract.
Jealousy, Violence, and Sexual Ambivalence in Adolescent Students According to Emotional Dependency in the Couple Relationship
Authors: Arbinaga Félix , Mendoza-Sierra María Isabel , Caraballo-Aguilar Belén María , Buiza-Calzadilla Irene , Torres-Rosado Lidia , Bernal-López Miriam , García-Martínez Julia , Fernández-Ozcorta Eduardo José
Published: November 2021

Background: Emotional dependency in couples involves excessive and dysfunctional emotional bonding. Aims: This work aimed to determine the relationship between violence, jealousy, and ambivalent sexism according to emotional dependence in adolescent student couples. Methods: A cross-sectional study. A total of 234 Spanish adolescents (69.7% female, Mage = 16.77, SD = 1.11) participated in the study. Participants completed an ad hoc interview and several validated tests (Partner’s Emotional Dependency Scale, the Ambivalent Sexism Inventory, the Jealousy subscale of the Love Addiction Scale, the Conflict in Adolescent Dating Relationship Inventory). Results: Of the sample, 40.6% indicated high emotional dependence and 14.5% extreme emotional dependence. Differences were observed according to gender (t = 3.92, p < 0.001), with adolescent boys scoring higher than adolescent girls. Extremely emotionally dependent participants showed differences in both violence (sexual, relational, verbal, and physical) and ambivalent sexism (hostile, benevolent) and jealousy scores. Generating a predictive model of emotional dependence, with the variable jealousy and ambivalent sexism as predictor variables, it was found that jealousy has the greatest predictive and major explanatory capacity (R2 = 0.297); with an R2 = 0.334. However, the contribution of the ASI-Hostile subscale was not significant when the ASI-Benevolent subscale was introduced into the model. Further, in a second model where the scores on jealousy and the couple conflict inventory’s subscales were considered as predictors, are again jealousy makes the greatest predictive contribution and shows the greatest explanatory capacity (R2 = 0.296). It was found that the contribution is significant only for the predictive capacity of Sexual Violence and Relational Violence. In this sense, the educational context is one of the propitious places to detect and correct behaviors that may be indicative of potentially unbalanced and unbalancing relationships for adolescents.
A Qualitative Exploration of the Referral Process of Children with Common Infections from Private Low-Level Health Facilities in Western Uganda
Authors: Mwanga-Amumpaire Juliet , Kalyango Joan Nakayaga , Ndeezi Grace , Rujumba Joseph , Owokuhaisa Judith , Stålsby Lundborg Cecilia , Alfvén Tobias , Obua Celestino , Källander Karin
Published: November 2021

Over 50% of sick children are treated by private primary-level facilities, but data on patient referral processes from such facilities are limited. We explored the perspectives of healthcare providers and child caretakers on the referral process of children with common childhood infections from private low-level health facilities in Mbarara District. We carried out 43 in-depth interviews with health workers and caretakers of sick children, purposively selected from 30 facilities, until data saturation was achieved. The issues discussed included the process of referral, challenges in referral completion and ways to improve the process. We used thematic analysis, using a combined deductive/inductive approach. The reasons for where and how to refer were shaped by the patients’ clinical characteristics, the caretakers’ ability to pay and health workers’ perceptions. Caretaker non-adherence to referral and inadequate communication between health facilities were the major challenges to the referral process. Suggestions for improving referrals were hinged on procedures to promote caretaker adherence to referral, including reducing waiting time and minimising the expenses incurred by caretakers. We recommend that triage at referral facilities should be improved and that health workers in low-level private health facilities (LLPHFs) should routinely be included in the capacity-building trainings organised by the Ministry of Health (MoH) and in workshops to disseminate health policies and national healthcare guidelines. Further research should be done on the effect of improving communication between LLPHFs and referral health facilities by affordable means, such as telephone, and the impact of community initiatives, such as transport vouchers, on promoting adherence to referral for sick children.