bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Chitosan on Chlorophyll Content and Phytotoxicity in Brassica juncea L.
Authors: Ningsih Sulistia , Sari Dahlia Wulan
Published: November 2023

The positive impact of chitosan has been widespread and has attracted interest from farmers with the pretext that it is safe for the environment. However, information on the adverse effects of using chitosan on plants still needs to be available. This study aims to discover the side effects of applying chitosan on the Brassica juncea. This test is done using Complete Random Design (CRD). The test is carried out by applying a solution of chitosan with five series of concentrations (0.5%, 1.5%, 2.5%, 3.5%, and 4.5%) plus control of acetic acid 1% (AA) to the upper and lower surfaces of the B. juncealeaves (old and young leaves) using a brush smooth to drip wet. The trial was repeated four times. Data was analyzed using ANOVA (Analisis of Variance). When there is a significant difference between the treatments, further tests are conducted using DMRT at a substantial level of 5%. In two week and three week B. juncea plant, the highest chlorophyll content is observed in the chitosan with a concentration of 3.5% and 0.5% with the same value of 0.74 mg/g, while the lowest concentration is at 1.5% 0.61 mg/g at the age of two weeks and 0.50 mg/g at three weeks. Using chitosan at high concentrations (2.5-4.5%) indicates phytotoxic occurrence in the leaves of two week or three week old B. juncea plants. Phytoxic indications are seen in rolling leaves, thickening, and structurally more hardinge when compared with low concentration (0.5% and 1.5%) and control treatments. It is best to pay attention to the use of concentrations of chitosan so that plants get optimal positive effects without causing adverse side effects.
Antrenör Davranış Stilleri Algısının Spora Bağlılığı Yordama Etkisinin Yapısal Regresyon Modeli ile İncelenmesi
Authors: Altın Yasin , Özkurt Burhan , Küçükibiş Hüseyin Fatih
Published: November 2023

Bu çalışmada, sporcular tarafından algılanan antrenör davranışlarının spora bağlılık düzeylerini yordama etkisinin incelenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Araştırma nicel araştırma yaklaşımlarından, ilişkisel araştırma deseni ile yürütülmüştür. Araştırma grubu, amaçlı örnekleme yöntemlerinden ölçüt örnekleme ile belirlenen Sivas ilinde aktif olarak spor yapan, 18-27 yaş aralığında, 227’si erkek ve 166’sı kadın olmak üzere 393 sporcudan oluşmaktadır. Araştırmada veri toplama aracı olarak, kişisel bilgi formu, antrenör davranış algısı ölçeği ve spora bağlılık ölçeği kullanılmıştır. Elde edilen veriler JAMOVI (2.2.5) programı ile analiz edilmiştir. Verilerin analizinde frekans, yüzde, ortalama, standart sapma, çarpıklık ve basıklık gibi betimsel istatistikler, Pearson korelasyon analizi, basit ve çoklu doğrusal regresyon analizlerinden faydalanılmıştır. Bulgulara göre sporcuların antrenör davranış stillerine yönelik algıları ile spora bağlılık (odaklanma, dinç olma) düzeyleri arasında anlamlı pozitif ilişkiler bulunmuştur. Ödüllendirici antrenör davranış algısının spora bağlılığın odaklanma boyutunu yordama etkisi anlamlıdır. Ödüllendirici davranış algısındaki 1 birimlik artış, odaklanma düzeyinde ,26 birimlik artışa karşılık gelmektedir ve odaklanma boyutundaki varyansın %11’ini açıklamaktadır. Eğitim-öğretim davranış algısının spora bağlılığın dinç olma boyutunu yordama etkisi anlamlıdır. Eğitim-öğretim davranış algısındaki 1 birimlik artış dinç olma düzeyinde ,17 birimlik artışa karşılık gelmektedir ve dinç olma boyutundaki varyansın yaklaşık olarak %14’ünü açıklamaktadır. Diğer boyutların spora bağlılığın boyutları üzerinde yordama etkisi anlamlı bulunmamıştır. Sonuç olarak, sporcuların antrenör davranış stillerine yönelik algıları ile spora bağlılık düzeyleri arasında anlamlı ilişki gözlenmiş olsa da yalnızca ödüllendirici ve eğitim-öğretim alt boyutlarındaki davranış algısı yordayıcıdır.
An assessment of the agronomic effectiveness of N‐(n‐butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (nBTPT) - treated urea on the production of clover-based pastures, pastures, grasses and crops.
Authors: Edmeades Douglas , McBride Robert
Published: November 2023

Approximately 50% of the world’s population depends on nitrogen (N) fertiliser to secure a sustainable food supply. Improving the efficiency of nitrogen fertiliser – the nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) - is a major goal both nationally and internationally, driven by the need to reduce the environmental footprint of farming. One of the technologies developed for this purpose is the addition of the urease inhibitor, N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (nBTPT), to urea, to reduce the volatilisation of ammonia from the soil. In this paper we report the results from field trials, recorded in the national and international literature, comparing the effects of nBTPT treated urea, relative to untreated urea, on plant dry matter (DM) yields (cloverbased pasture, grasses and arable crops) from 45 studies summarizing the results on a site × year × crop basis. For the aggregated data (n = 348) the marginal yield results were normally distributed around a mean of about 3% (95% confidence interval 0.9), with a range from -23% to +32%. The results for the various subsets (based on different crop types) of data were very similar. The size of the effect of nBTPT was related to the rate of N application.
Factors Influencing Pastoral Farmers' Land-use Change Decisions in Response to Environmental Regulations in the Selwyn District, Canterbury
Authors: Van Uffelen Ashleigh , Lucock Xiaomeng K. S. , Bailey Alison P.
Published: November 2023

In recent years, the pressure placed on New Zealand farmers to reduce their environmental impact and convert to more sustainable land-uses has significantly increased in response to public and political concerns. This has seen an increase in the amount and complexity of environmental regulations, particularly for farmers in the Selwyn District, Canterbury. Increasing environmental regulations has contributed to an unintended side effect of a declining relationship quality between farmers and regulatory authorities.

This study provides a new way for regulatory authorities to understand which factors influence pastoral farmers’ land-use change decisions and how these factors interact in response to environmental regulations. A total of nine pastoral farmers operating in the Selwyn District were interviewed to obtain data on how they made land-use change decisions and the impact of environmental regulations on these. Specifically, the data involved the collection of Q-sort scores, centrality scores, and the creation of causal maps.

This study found that financial factors were the most important to pastoral farmers when making land-use change decisions. However, these financial factors were strongly connected to farmers’ sense of certainty around policy and practice. Many farmers felt unsure about the impact of current and future policy and practice changes on their farms. Subsequently, they felt hesitant to make land-use change decisions without the confidence that it will remain a financially and strategically viable choice for the longer term.

This study also found that farmers had high intrinsic values surrounding environmental stewardship. Contrarily, environmental regulations drive land-use change decisions in an extrinsic form to farmers. This difference is concerning because if farmers become too focused on only doing what is required to meet regulations, it risks taking away the common-sense approach farmers already have. Overall, without improvements in the communication between regulatory authorities and farmers, the future may see increased focus by farmers on ticking boxes and less on strategically thinking about what is best for the environment.

In summary, improved understanding by regulatory authorities and actions resulting from this will greatly contribute to positive environmental outcomes being reached in an efficient manner. To encourage sustainable land-use change, regulatory authorities need to give increased thought on how future regulations are created and implemented long-term. Farmers will feel more confident to transition to more sustainable land-uses with increased certainty around policy and practice and regulations that are introduced to them in a way that better understands their role as environmental stewards.
Hill Country Futures - Resilient farmers and resilient forages for the future
Authors: Keeling Suzanne , Sutherland Mhairi , Moot Derrick , Dixon Katherine , McFetridge Angela , Odgers Nathan , Millner James , Ropiha Joan , Ludemann Cameron , Barker Adam , Brier Daniel
Published: November 2023

A thriving hill country farming sector is crucial for New Zealand’s economy and its regions. However, it faces numerous challenges, such as increased regulations, and changing societal expectations. To ensure the longterm success and well-being of farmers, farm systems, the environment, and rural communities, support is essential for building lasting resilience. To address some of these challenges, the Hill Country Futures Partnership programme was initiated, receiving $8.1 million funding over five years. This programme, cofunded by Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ), the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, PGG Wrightson Seeds, and RAGT New Zealand, concluded in 2023. During the programme, the farming community were actively engaged, and a collaborative research approach was employed involving B+LNZ, farmers, universities, Crown Research Institutes, and consulting agencies. The programme consisted of interconnected workstreams with a focus on resilient farmers and future-oriented forages. It generated a wide range of resources, including easily accessible extension materials, tools, and scientific publications, covering social, environmental, and technical aspects to support New Zealand’s hill country farming systems. And it showed how a collaborative approach, inclusive of researchers and farmers with diverse backgrounds and expertise, can help create a more resilient hillcountry future.
Developing a multiagent framework to explore the implications of fencing waterways using virtual fencing on New Zealand hill country farms.
Authors: Box Lisa , Ward Jamie , Obadovic Irena , Tozer Katherine , Stevens David
Published: November 2023

Hill country farms in New Zealand are faced with having to exclude cattle from waterways to limit their negative impact on water quality. Virtual fencing technology offers the potential to control the access of each animal to its physical environment and, meet the requirement of excluding stock from waterways. Understanding farmer willingness to uptake virtual fencing technology requires exploring farm system changes that would occur when moving from using conventional fences to virtual fencing. This paper describes the investigation of a multiagent framework to explore potential futures that may be created by the application of virtual fencing technology. Compared to conventional fencing, virtual fencing of beef cattle on hill and steep land is a financially viable option to exclude cattle from waterways. Compared to no fencing of waterways, virtual fencing reduced farm annual profitability by 9% and 17% for rolling and steep farms respectively, whereas conventional fencing reduced profitability by 14% and 93% respectively, severely reducing the profit of steep hill country farms. The results from this study used industry sheep and beef production, farm size andstock number averages and therefore are preliminary and indicative only.
Challenges and opportunities for conducting on-farm research
Authors: Doole Graeme , Tozer Katherine , Sauermann Christian , Stevens David , Ward Jamie
Published: November 2023

Availability of research farms owned by research institutions is declining due to their high operational cost, asset value, and limited distribution. The goals of this paper are to review their role and value in pastoral science and to identify challenges and opportunities for on-farm research. Research and commercial farms as trial sites may be mutually exclusive, complementary, or substitutes. Research farms are essential where science requires expensive facilities and/or rigorous control to maintain ethics and quality commitments. They can also provide information independent of scientific and commercial bias. Commercial farms provide access to more diversity, help scientists understand benefits and identify and resolve on-farm issues, and build industry credibility. Since the number of research farms is unlikely to increase, several lessons are important. Delivery, ethical, and science quality risks can accrue when the full cost of working with commercial farms is not considered or work most suited to a research farm is conducted in a commercial setting. Improved integration with farms owned by educational institutions; private trusts; regional and national government; and commercial companies offers opportunities for efficiency improvements. When working with commercial farmers, clear communication, flexible protocols, frequent oversight, and mutual respect are essential to maintain science quality. Paying farmers under a contractual agreement appears pragmatic. The value of opportunities to build farmer and researcher capability in the context of field experiments on research and commercial farms is identified.
Understanding pathways of digital technology development to improve farm sustainability and resilience.
Authors: Stevens David , King Warren McG. , Meenken Esther D. , Ward Jamie F.
Published: November 2023

We explored potential pathways of digital technologies to improve both resilience and sustainability outcomes in grazing systems by investigating the development requirements of virtual herding technologies. We used a Lead User group familiar with virtual herding technology to examine the question “after virtual herding has been successfully adopted, what will the future look like”? This group included agribusiness, industry, corporate farm management, farmers, and science. A brainstorming approach generated ideas. A horizontal prototype was built by clustering ideas into themes of the technology itself, requirements of people, applications, and outcomes, allocated to short-, medium-, and long-term timeframes. Steps required for technology development included: production of a minimum viable product, integration of sensors, and the addition of landscape digitisation. The requirements/impacts on people identified training and awareness, development of skills and labour requirements, and the changing roles of people in the landscape as a progression of change. Applications included productivity, environmental protection, landscape development and enterprise change. A range of requirements were identified within each of these steps and categories. The development of a vision of future technology use provides insight into the complexity of developing digital technologies for sheep and beef farming applications.
Pukekauri farm – snapshots from a sustainability journey
Authors: Dodd Michael , Burke Rick , Burke John , Journeaux Phil , Tozer Katherine
Published: November 2023

Pukekauri Farm is a 295 ha mixed livestock hill country property in the western Bay of Plenty. Over the last 20+ years the owners have been on a development journey with a focus on the multiple dimensions of sustainability – economic, environmental, and social. This paper seeks to document that journey, with supporting resource, production, financial and environmental data to quantify progress. Some of the most useful tools have included high quality forage crops, deferred grazing, sheep genetics, accounting software and paddock-scale soil and water resource maps. Key lessons include the value of knowledge networks and modelling tools, the power of a farm plan for optimising land use and management, the importance of both profitability and grants to underwrite development investment, and the emergence of secondary benefits from decisions focused on system-wide improvement. Over 20 years, despite areduction in grazed area of 20%, meat production has increased by 16%, EBITR/ha has increased by 6%, modelled net greenhouse gas emissions have declined by 60% and modelled N leaching has declined by 29%. Overall, the farm is easier to manage and more pleasant to dwell in.
The case for expanding the range of subject specialists used in farm planning.
Authors: Mackay Alec , Scobie David , Hyde Rebecca , Nelson Anna
Published: November 2023

We explored the merit of expanding the range of subject specialists used in farm planning. We document the outcomes for sheep and beef farmers to improve water quality and promote climate change awareness as part of the wider planning process in two community catchment groups (Hurunui District Landcare Group and King Country River Care group). We found that subject specialists added value. A land resource specialist contributed to greater precision and a more detailed description of the farms natural and built capital. This contributed to a more robust analysis and better targeting of the actions in the work programme. The terrestrial ecologist activated the link between the management of indigenous biodiversity and stream health, with resilience to future climate events. The carbon specialist created the link between tree planting and water quality outcomes because of where tree plantings were located on most farms. The carbon specialist also highlighted the option to register existing soil conservation plantings under the emissionstrading scheme, adding a revenue stream. With the subject specialist(s) as part of the wider farm team, environmental concerns are more likely to be integrated into the business plan with mitigation actions better tailored and targeted in the work programme.
Hakîm Senâî-yi Gaznevî’nin Hadîkatü’l-hakîka İsimli Eserinde Tahkiye
Authors: Küçük Sezai , Rahmani Zabihullah
Published: November 2023

Ebü’l-Mecd Hakîm Mecdûd b. Âdem Senâî-yi Gaznevî (464/1071-525/1131[?]) klasik Fars edebiyatının ilk mutasavvıf şâiri kabul edilir. Hadîkatü’l-hakîka ve şerî’atü’t-tarîka adlı eseri de bu alanda Farsça kaleme alınmış ilk tasavvufî mesnevî olarak nitelenir. 10.000 beyitten oluşan bu eser tasavvufî bir mesnevî olmasının yanı sıra dinî, felsefî, hikemî, ahlâkî konuları da içermektedir. Hakîm Senâî ilk kez bu eseri ile tasavvufun konularını nazım dünyasına taşımış ve konuları ele alırken anlatımı güçlendirmek ve okurun dikkatini cezbetmek için hikâye türünden yararlanmıştır. Hadîkatü’l-hakîka’da 114 hikâye yer almaktadır. Eserde yer alan bu hikâyeler ya okuyucunun dikkatini çekmek için konuya geçmeden önce verilmiş veya bir konu uzun uzun anlatıldıktan sonra konuyu pekiştirmek için ilgili hikâyenin sonunda sunulmuştur. Bu çalışmada Hakîm Senâî’nin hayatı ve eserleri kısaca verilmiş, daha sonra araştırmaya konu olan Hakîm Senâî’nin Hadîkatü’l-hakîka isimli eseri tanıtılmıştır. Bu kısmında eserin bölümleri (babları) detaylı bir şekilde ele alınırken bölümler içinde tespit edilmiş olan hikâyeler başlıklar halinde verilmiştir. Eserdeki hikâyelerin değerlendirilmesi bölümünde de hikâyelerin konularına göre genel tasnifi yapılarak, hikâyelerdeki şahıs ve tipler, anlatım biçimi, hikâyelerin kaynağı ve hikâyelerde geçen Kur’ân-ı Kerîm âyetlerinden iktibâslar tespit edilip değerlendirilmiştir. Tasavvuf edebiyatı tarihinde mühim bir yere sahip olan Hadîkatü’l-hakîka gerek konuları gerekse dinî-tasavvufî ve ahlâkî hikâyeler itibariyle başta Mevlânâ’nın Mesnevî’si ve Attâr’ın Mantıku't-tayr’ı olmak üzere birçok tasavvufî mesnevîlere kaynaklık etmiştir.
Farklı perforelerle oluşturulan çapraz lamine ahşap levhaların (CLT) ısı iletkenlik değerlerinin belirlenmesi
Authors: BÜLBÜL Ramazan , KESKİN Hakan
Published: November 2023

Bu çalışmada, orman ürünleri sanayisinde yaygın bir kullanım alanına sahip olan sarıçam (Pinus silvestris L.) odunundan; kontrol grubu ile ara katmanlarda perforasyon oranları sırasıyla %5, %10 ve %20 olmak üzere 45 mm kalınlıkta, üç katmanlı çapraz lamine ahşap levhalar (CLT) oluşturulmuştur. Çapraz lamine ahşap levhaların ara katmanını oluşturan masif levhanın yüzeyine belirtilmiş olan oranlarda ve Ø10 mm çapında perforasyon işlemi yapılmış ve her iki yüzeyine tutkal sürüldükten sonra preslenerek çapraz lamine levha üretilmiştir. Çalışma kapsamında üretilen çapraz lamine ahşap levhaların TSE EN 322’ye göre rutubet miktarının tayini, TS EN 323’e göre yoğunlukları, TS EN 12667’ ye göre ise ısı iletim katsayıları tespit edilmiştir. Yapılan deneylerden elde edilen verilere göre, çapraz lamine ahşap levhaların (CLT) ara katmanlarına belirtilmiş olan oranlarda yapılan perforasyon uygulamasında ısı iletim katsayılarında kontrol grubuna kıyasla %1.05, %4.56 ve %9.73 oranında azalma meydana geldiği ve bu azalmanın da istatistiksel olarak anlamlı olduğu görülmüştür. Ara katmanlarda uygulanan perforasyon işleminin anlamlı olan etki düzeyinin daha yüksek olması için ara katmandaki levhanın daha düşük yoğunluğa sahip masif ahşap malzemelerden yapılması ve perforasyon işleminin ise CNC makinelerinde uygulanması önerilmektedir.
Reoperation after surgical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review
Authors: He Weixiang , Ding Ting , Niu Zhiping , Hao Chunlin , Li Chengbin , Xu Zhicheng , Jing Yuming , Qin Weijun
Published: November 2023

Context

Surgical treatment is important for male lower urinary tract symptom (LUTS) management, but there are few reviews of the risks of reoperation.

Objective

To systematically evaluate the current evidence regarding the reoperation rates of surgical treatment for LUTS in accordance with current recommendations and guidelines.

Evidence acquisition

Eligible studies published up to July 2023, were searched for in the PubMed® (National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA), Embase® (Elsevier, Amsterdam, the Netherlands), and Web of Science™ (Clarivate™, Philadelphia, PA, USA) databases. STATA® (StataCorp LP, College Station, TX, USA) software was used to conduct the meta-analysis. Random-effects models were used to calculate the pooled incidences (PIs) of reoperation and the 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Evidence synthesis

A total of 119 studies with 130,106 patients were included. The reoperation rate of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 4.0%, 5.0%, 6.0%, and 7.7%, respectively. The reoperation rate of plasma kinetic loop resection of the prostate (PKRP) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 3.5%, 3.6%, 5.7%, and 6.6%, respectively. The reoperation rate of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 2.4%, 3.3%, 5.4%, and 6.6%, respectively. The reoperation rate of photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 3.3%, 4.1%, 6.7%, and 7.1%, respectively. The reoperation rate of surgery with AquaBeam® at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 2.6%, 3.1%, 3.0%, and 4.1%, respectively. The reoperation rate of prostatic artery embolization (PAE) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 12.2%, 20.0%, 26.4%, and 23.8%, respectively. The reoperation rate of transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 9.9%, 19.9%, 23.3%, and 31.2%, respectively. The reoperation rate of transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP) at 5 years was 13.4%. The reoperation rate of open prostatectomy (OP) at 1 and 5 years was 1.3% and 4.4%, respectively. The reoperation rate of thulium laser enucleation of the prostate (ThuLEP) at 1, 2, and 5 years was 3.7%, 7.7%, and 8.4%, respectively.

Conclusion

Our results summarized the reoperation rates of 10 surgical procedures over follow-up durations of 1, 2, 3, and 5 years, which could provide reference for urologists and LUTS patients.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier CRD42023445780.
Analysis of fluid structure interaction between fuel elements and the coolant in Xi’an Pulsed Reactor core under seismic conditions
Authors: Hu Pan , Ma Zhenhui , Ma Tengyue , Wang Baosheng , Tang Xiuhuan , Su Chunlei , Yang Ning , Chen Lixin
Published: November 2023

The phenomenon of fluid structure interaction exists widely in nuclear facilities, and it is of great significance to the safety of nuclear facilities. Xi’an Pulsed Reactor (XAPR) is a pool research reactor with good inherent safety. It has been operating safely since the loading criticality. However, researches on fluid structure interaction have not yet been carried out on Xi’an Pulsed Reactor which was built in the 1990s because of the limitation by the technical conditions and safety evaluation range at that time. In order to fill the technical blank mentioned above, the fluid structure interaction between fuel elements and the coolant in Xi’an Pulsed Reactor core is simulated by finite element method for the first time. In this method, the interaction between solid component deformation and flow field is considered alternatively, and some results are obtained. The maximum value of the deformation of fuel elements cladding tube do not exceed 0.1 mm, and the equivalent von-Mises stress is about 4.4683 × 107 Pa under given conditions, which is less than the tensile strength and yield strength of the material. The results show that the fluid structure interaction effect between fuel elements and the coolant in Xi’an Pulsed Reactor core is very weak under the given seismic conditions, and thus will not affect the safety of the reactor core and can be ignored.
The recent advancements of ferroptosis in the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of ovarian cancer
Authors: Chen Biqing , Zhao Liping , Yang Rulin , Xu Tianmin
Published: November 2023

Ovarian cancer affects the female reproductive system and is the primary cause of cancer related mortality globally. The imprecise and non-specific nature of ovarian cancer symptoms often results in patients being diagnosed at an advanced stage, with metastatic lesions extending beyond the ovary. This presents a significant clinical challenge and imposes a substantial economic burden on both patients and society. Despite advancements in surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, the prognosis for most patients with ovarian cancer remains unsatisfactory. Therefore, the development of novel treatment strategies is imperative. Ferroptosis, a distinct form of regulated cell death, characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, differs from autophagy, apoptosis, and necrosis, and may hold promise as a novel cell death. Numerous studies have demonstrated the involvement of ferroptosis in various conventional signaling pathways and biological processes. Recent investigations have revealed the significant contribution of ferroptosis in the initiation, progression, and metastasis of diverse malignant tumors, including ovarian cancer. Moreover, ferroptosis exhibits a synergistic effect with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy in restraining the proliferation of ovarian cancer cells. The aforementioned implies that ferroptosis holds considerable importance in the management of ovarian cancer and has the potential to serve as a novel therapeutic target. The present review provides a comprehensive overview of the salient features of ferroptosis, encompassing its underlying mechanisms and functional role in ovarian cancer, along with the associated signaling pathways and genes. Furthermore, the review highlights the prospective utility of ferroptosis in the treatment of ovarian cancer.
The complex relationship between obesity and neurodegenerative diseases: an updated review
Authors: Neto Alexandre , Fernandes Adelaide , Barateiro Andreia
Published: November 2023

Obesity is a global epidemic, affecting roughly 30% of the world’s population and predicted to rise. This disease results from genetic, behavioral, societal, and environmental factors, leading to excessive fat accumulation, due to insufficient energy expenditure. The adipose tissue, once seen as a simple storage depot, is now recognized as a complex organ with various functions, including hormone regulation and modulation of metabolism, inflammation, and homeostasis. Obesity is associated with a low-grade inflammatory state and has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer’s (AD), and Parkinson’s (PD). Mechanistically, reduced adipose expandability leads to hypertrophic adipocytes, triggering inflammation, insulin and leptin resistance, blood-brain barrier disruption, altered brain metabolism, neuronal inflammation, brain atrophy, and cognitive decline. Obesity impacts neurodegenerative disorders through shared underlying mechanisms, underscoring its potential as a modifiable risk factor for these diseases. Nevertheless, further research is needed to fully grasp the intricate connections between obesity and neurodegeneration. Collaborative efforts in this field hold promise for innovative strategies to address this complex relationship and develop effective prevention and treatment methods, which also includes specific diets and physical activities, ultimately improving quality of life and health.
Case report: Ultrasound-guided needle knife technique for carpal ligament release in carpal tunnel syndrome treatment
Authors: Sun Jianjun , Zou Xiaodi , Fu Qinyun , Wu Jianhua , Yuan Shuaishuai , Alhaskawi Ahmad , Dong Yanzhao , Zhou Haiying , Abdalbary Sahar Ahmed , Lu Hui
Published: November 2023

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common peripheral neuropathy of the hand, mainly manifesting as sensory disturbances, motor dysfunctions, and pain in the fingers and hand. The pathogenesis of the disease is associated with fibrosis of the transverse carpal ligament in the carpal tunnel, which compresses median nerve. In our case, we demonstrate an ultrasound-guided needle knife technique to treat CTS. We guided the patient to a supine position on the examination table. The skin of the wrist area was sterilized for the procedure. After the skin was dry, we positioned sterile drapes, located the median nerve and compression, and marked the compression point. Local anesthesia was administered. An ultrasound-guided needle knife was inserted. The needle knife was advanced under ultrasound guidance. The carpal ligament was incised. A gradual release of pressure on the median nerve was observed on the ultrasound monitor. After treatment, the patient’s finger sensation and motor function can significantly improve, and pain symptoms are markedly reduced, this case demonstrates that small needle-knife treatment can serve as a safe and effective minimally invasive therapeutic method.
Neuromodulatory effects of high-definition theta transcranial alternating current stimulation on the parietal cortex: a pilot study of healthy males
Authors: Chen Xixi , Wu Yuwei , Shi Xiaolong , Zhou Zhiqing , Feng Tingyi , Ren Meng , Li Yuanli , Shan Chunlei
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) can regulate brain functions by modulating endogenous brain rhythms. Theta-band neural oscillations are associated with memory function. In particular, theta neural oscillatory power evoked in the parietal cortex is closely related to memory retrieval processes. In this study, the immediate effects of high-definition theta transcranial alternating current stimulation (HDθ-tACS) on the human left parietal cortex were investigated using short-latency afferent inhibition (SAI) and electroencephalography (EEG).

Methods

Ten subjects participated in this study. We used 6-Hz HD tACS to stimulate the left parietal cortex for 15 min. SAI was calculated, and non-linear dynamic analysis of the EEG was performed to analyze neuronal function after HD θ-tACS.

Results

The results showed a significant decrease in SAI (p < 0.05), while the left frontoparietal network was reinforced, leading to brain lateralization after HD θ-tACS. During performance of a memory task, F3 signals showed a significant upward trend in approximate entropy following treatment (p < 0.05). There was also a significant decrease in cross-approximate entropy in the C3–C4 and P3–P4 connections following the intervention (p < 0.05) in a resting eyes-open condition and in the memory task condition.

Discussion

In conclusion, HD θ-tACS could alter cholinergic transmission and cortical excitability between the parietal and motor cortices, as well as reinforcing the frontoparietal network and the left-lateralization phenomenon, which may facilitate memory formation, encoding, and consolidation.
Neuromuscular and perceptual-cognitive response to 4v4 small-sided game in youth soccer players
Authors: Skala Filip , Zemková Erika
Published: November 2023

The physical and psychological load of small-sided games (SSGs) can affect players’ neuromuscular and cognitive functions. Yet, little is known about the acute performance changes after such a specific exercise in young soccer players and their association with exercise load applied. This study investigates i) the neuromuscular and perceptual-cognitive response to the SSG exercise load, and ii) the relationship between pre- and post-SSG changes in variables of performance and the respective exercise load in youth soccer players. Sixteen participants (13.6 ± 0.5 years) underwent a 30-min SSG 4v4 + GK protocol. Prior to and after the SSG they performed countermovement jump (CMJ), planned and reactive Y-shaped agility tests (PA, RA), and go/no-go task (GNG). Their subjective perception of fatigue was evaluated by visual analog scale. Fatigue induced by SSG (perception of fatigue increased by 41.56%, p = .001, g = 4.15) increased PA time (4.04%, p = .002, g = .97), RA time (6.45%, p = .003, g = 1.16), and number of errors in the response inhibition task (87.1%, p = .023, rc = .57), whilst decreased CMJ height (−6.65%, p = .014, g = .56). These performance deteriorations were not significantly associated with neither internal nor external load variables. However, a less pronounced drop in performance was related to external load variables, i.e., ∆CMJ height and ∆RA time correlated with very high-speed running (rs = .66, p = .006; rs = −.50, p = .022; respectively) and maximal speed (r = .54, p = .032; r = −.52, p = .037; respectively), whilst ∆PA time was associated with high-intensity accelerations (rs = −.76, p = .002). These findings indicate that fatigue induced by SSG affects both planned and reactive agility, decision-making in response inhibition task, and explosive strength in youth soccer players regardless of significant contribution of any robust internal or external load variables. Nonetheless, high-intensity actions within SSG partially compensate for the decrements in their agility performance and explosive strength. The load variables encountered during SSG do not fully reflect youth players’ neuromuscular and perceptual-cognitive responses to sport-specific exercise.
Explorative analyses on spatial differences in the desire for social distance toward people with mental illness in a diverging city
Authors: Helmert Claudia , Speerforck Sven , Fleischer Toni , Otten Danielle , Kasinger Christoph , Brähler Elmar , Muehlan Holger , Altweck Laura , Hahm Stefanie , Schmidt Silke , Reusche Matthias , Glaesmer Heide , Hinz Andreas , Reyes Nigar , Wirkner Kerstin , Engel Christoph , Schomerus Georg , Ulke Christine
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Stigma is an individual and societal process based on attitudes and power and relates to both spatial disparities and social distinction. In this study, we examined differences in desire for social distance toward people with mental illness within a city using social and spatial information.

Methods

ANOVAs and Scheffé post-hoc tests analyzed varying desires for social distance toward people with mental illness within Leipzig (East Germany). Joint Correspondence Analyses (JCA) explored correspondences between desire for social distance, socio-economic status, age, life orientation, social support, duration of living in Leipzig, and shame toward having a mental illness in five city districts of Leipzig in LIFE study participants (by Leipzig Research Center for Civilization Disease, data collected 2011–2014 and 2018–2021, n = 521).

Results

Stigma varied among Leipzig’s districts (F(df = 4) = 4.52, p = 0.001). JCAs showed that a higher desired social distance toward people with mental illness corresponded with spatial differences, high levels of pessimism, high shame of being mentally ill, low social support, low socio-economic status, and older age (75.74 and 81.22% explained variances).

Conclusion

In terms of stigma, where people with mental illness live matters. The results identified target groups that should be addressed by appropriate intervention and prevention strategies for mental health care.
Earwig-inspired foldable origami wing for micro air vehicle gliding
Authors: Ishiguro Risa , Kawasetsu Takumi , Motoori Yutaro , Paik Jamie , Hosoda Koh
Published: November 2023

Foldable wings serve as an effective solution for reducing the size of micro air vehicles (MAVs) during non-flight phases, without compromising the gliding capacity provided by the wing area. Among insects, earwigs exhibit the highest folding ratio in their wings. Inspired by the intricate folding mechanism in earwig hindwings, we aimed to develop artificial wings with similar high-folding ratios. By leveraging an origami hinge, which is a compliant mechanism, we successfully designed and prototyped wings capable of opening and folding in the wind, which helps reduce the surface area by a factor of seven. The experimental evaluation involved measuring the lift force generated by the wings under Reynolds numbers less than 2.2 × 104. When in the open position, our foldable wings demonstrated increased lift force proportional to higher wind speeds. Properties such as wind responsiveness, efficient folding ratios, and practical feasibility highlight the potential of these wings for diverse applications in MAVs.
The role of lung-restricted autoantibodies in the development of primary and chronic graft dysfunction
Authors: Yang Wenbin , Lecuona Emilia , Wu Qiang , Liu Xianpeng , Sun Haiying , Alam Hasan , Nadig Satish N. , Bharat Ankit
Published: November 2023

Lung transplantation is a life-saving treatment for both chronic end-stage lung diseases and acute respiratory distress syndrome, including those caused by infectious agents like COVID-19. Despite its increasing utilization, outcomes post-lung transplantation are worse than other solid organ transplants. Primary graft dysfunction (PGD)—a condition affecting more than half of the recipients post-transplantation—is the chief risk factor for post-operative mortality, transplant-associated multi-organ dysfunction, and long-term graft loss due to chronic rejection. While donor-specific antibodies targeting allogenic human leukocyte antigens have been linked to transplant rejection, the role of recipient's pre-existing immunoglobulin G autoantibodies against lung-restricted self-antigens (LRA), like collagen type V and k-alpha1 tubulin, is less understood in the context of lung transplantation. Recent studies have found an increased risk of PGD development in lung transplant recipients with LRA. This review will synthesize past and ongoing research—utilizing both mouse models and human subjects—aimed at unraveling the mechanisms by which LRA heightens the risk of PGD. Furthermore, it will explore prospective approaches designed to mitigate the impact of LRA on lung transplant patients.
Description Of The Results Of The Cytological Examination Of Pleural Fluid Using Giemsa Staining
Authors: Eva Sri Ayu Tarigan
Published: November 2023

Many objects after being fixed and then glued with entellan or balsam become so transparent that their structure is not obvious when viewed with a microscope. To overcome this difficulty, in general, preparations are colored with dyes that can clarify their structure. Staining aims to sharpen or clarify various tissue elements, especially the cells, so that they can be distinguished and studied under a microscope. This research was conducted at the Anatomical Pathology Laboratory of Grandmed Lubuk Pakam Hospital in February 2020 - July 2020. The research design was descriptive. The population of this study were all pleural effusion fluid cytology preparations at the Anatomical Pathology Laboratory of Grandmed Lubuk Pakam Hospital. The sampling technique used is accidental sampling, namely the technique of determining the sample by chance. In this case, the samples found were 16 samples. The results showed that microscopic images of pleural fluid cytology preparations using Giemsa staining showed poor (43.75%) and good (56.25%) results. The results of this study are expected to be input for the Anatomical Pathology Laboratory about the description of the results of the pleural fluid cytology examination using Giemsa staining to improve service quality.
Differences In The Results Of Examination Of Blood Glucose Levels By The Point Of Care Test (Poct) Method Using Vein And Capillary Blood Samples In Type II Diabetes Mellitus Patients
Authors: Simamora Artha
Published: November 2023

Glucose is an aldohexose monosaccharide found in the human body and other living things. It is the end product of carbohydrate metabolism that is released into the blood and becomes the main energy source of living things. Because of its role as the main energy, glucose is then transported into cells for generate energy. This energy formation process occurs in the mitochondria by requiring oxygen as fuel to produce ATP as energy for every cell activity. Blood glucose is influenced by factors of nutritional status, genetics and age, and disease. This study determine to differences in blood glucose levels measured using venous blood and capillary blood samples. This study used an analytical observational research design with a cross sectional approach. Observational research, which is to find differences between independent variables and dependent variables whose analysis is to determine whether there are differences between variables, so it is necessary to develop a hypothesis. Based on the results of the analysis of this study, it was found that from 25 respondents, the average value of capillary blood was 192.76, with a standard deviation of 56,302, with a min value of 111 and a max value of 288, with a p value of 0.007. The mean difference in venous blood is 186.44, with a standard deviation of 55.586, with a min value of 114 and a max of 280, with a p value = 0.007 with a significance level of p<? (0.05) which is 0.007<0.05. Based on the results of the study, it can be concluded that there are differences in the results of blood glucose levels using the POCT (Point Of Care Test) method using venous blood and capillary blood samples at Grandmed Lubuk Pakam Hospital
Testing The Antibacterial Activity Of The Ethanol Extract Of Duku Fruit (Lansium Domesticum Corr) Peel Against Salmonella Typhi Bacteria
Authors: Dewi Pratiwi
Published: November 2023

One of the diseases that arise due to infection with pathogenic bacteria is typhoid fever. Typhoid is an infectious disease that is transmitted through the bacterium Salmonella typhi. One of the plants that can be used as an antibacterial is duku fruit skin. Duku fruit skin leaves were extracted by maceration with 96% ethanol as solvent. The extract obtained was s screened for phytochemicals to see what secondary metabolites were found in duku fruit skin leaves. This study consisted of 4 treatment groups, namely extract concentration 25%, 50%, 75%, positive control (Kloramfenikol), and negative control (aquadest), with 3 repetitions to minimize the possibility of data errors in the study. Antibacterial activity test was carried out using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. The ethanolic extract of duku fruit skin leaves contains alkaloid, flavonoid, saponin, tanin, and triterpenoid. The ethanolic extract of duku fruit skin leaves had antibacterial activity at concentrations of 25%, 50%, and 75% against Salmonella typhi with inhibition zone diameters of 10,22 mm, 11,94 mm, 13,63 mm, respectively. The results of unvariate data analysis showed that the ethanolic extract of duku fruit skin leaves had antibacterial activity against Salmonella typhi and the higher the concentration, the wider the inhibition zone formed.
FINDING OF TWO FISH SPECIES IN THE HYPERSALINE WATERS OF THE SIVASH BAY (SEA OF AZOV)
Authors: Vdodovich I.V. , Shadrin N.V. , Anufriieva E.V. , Klimova T.N.
Published: November 2023

During a number of years juveniles and larvae of Atherina boyeri Risso, 1810 and Knipowitschia caucasica (Berg, 1916) were caught in the hypersaline waters of Sivash at salinity up to 70-75%. Once the larvae of Atherina hepsetus Linnaeus, 1758 at a salinity of 54% and A. boyeri at a salinity of 90% were caught. New data on the expansion of the salinity range of the survival of A. boyeri are presented.
PHENOLOGICAL RESPONSE OF SOME SPECIES OF THE FAMILY RANUNCULACEAE TO CLIMATE CHANGE IN CENTRAL YAKUTIA
Authors: Danilova N.S. , Andreeva S.N. , Androsova D.N. , Egorova N.N. , Borisova S.Z. , Petrova A.N. , Yudina O.V.
Published: November 2023

The study of plant phenology is an important point in a changing climate. The purpose of these studies is to analyze regional climate changes in Central Yakutia and the phenological response of 4 species ( Pulsatilla angustifolia , Adonis sibirica , Delphinium grandifloru m и Aconitum barbatum ) of wild herbaceous plants to these events over the past 60 years. A statistically significant positive trend was observed in the temperature regime of Yakutsk for 1961-2021. The average air temperature of the frost-free period increased by 1,4 ºС, the growing season by 0,9 ºС and the summer season by 1,2 ºС. The average yearly precipitation has not changed significantly during this period. The increase in air temperature has led to minor shifts in the seasonal development of plants, which vary in duration and orientation. The earlier onset of the terms of the phenological phases is noted at the beginning of the growing season, and a significant shift is noted only in the terms of the spring regrowth of A. sibirica (p = 0,0314). The shift of the dates of the end of vegetation to later dates was noted in three species. The end of the vegetation of the short-vegetating hemiephemeroid A. sibirica has shifted to earlier dates. There were no significant differences in the duration of the prefloral period, which is due, to a greater extent, to the biological characteristics of the species rather than environmental factors. Changes in vegetation duration are more noticeable, although p-values are higher than the significance level (p = 0,1-0,8). There was a significant increase in the duration of vegetation only in A. barbatum (p = 0,04). This slight shift in the dates of the onset of the main phenological phases shows the inertia of the phenological response of plants to regional climate changes.
MODELING OF GRAIN YIELD UNDER HARD-TO-PREDICT CLIMATE
Authors: Akmarov P.B. , Knyazeva O.P. , Rysin I.I.
Published: November 2023

The features of the formation of grain yields in field crop production are presented, climatic indicators are highlighted as the main factors of instability of agricultural production. On the materials of agricultural organizations of the Glazov region and long-term observations of the Glazov meteorological station Udmurtia shows the dependence of crop productivity not only on the purposeful work of a person, but also, to a large extent, on climate conditions during the period of active growth of cultivated crops. Particular attention is paid to the temperature regime and the regime of moisture supply of plants during the growing season from May to August. It has been established that due to the application of mineral fertilizers, grain yields can be increased by an average of 66 kg per kilogram of fertilizers applied.Various regression models are proposed for predictive calculations of future grain harvests, which can also be used for planning when making management decisions. Conclusions were obtained that the ratio of precipitation to average temperatures in the month of June is the most significant of the climatic indicators affecting grain yields. Slightly weaker and with the opposite sign, the influence of the same ratio of climate indicators in May is confirmed. An example of the use of models for agricultural production in the study area is shown. Variants of possible models for a rough assessment of the climatic conditions of future harvests based on the use of neural networks are presented separately, which will justify the plan of agrotechnical measures for the cultivation of grain crops.