bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Agricultural management and cultivation period alter soil enzymatic activity and bacterial diversity in litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) orchards
Authors: Chen Yu-Pei , Tsai Chia-Fang , Hameed Asif , Chang Yu-Jen , Young Chiu-Chung 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background
Agricultural management and temporal change including climate conditions and soil properties can result in the alteration of soil enzymatic activity and bacterial community, respectively. Therefore, different agricultural practices have been used globally to explore the soil quality. In this study, the temporal variations in soil property, enzymatic activity, and bacterial community at three successive trimester sampling intervals were performed in the soil samples of litchi orchards that were maintained under conventional and sustainable agricultural practices.

Results
Agricultural management found to significantly influence arylsulfatase, β-glucosidase, and urease activities across time as observed by repeated-measures analysis of variance. Shannon and Simpson diversity indices, and the relative abundance of predominant Acidobacteria and Proteobacteria were significantly influenced by temporal change but not agricultural management. This suggested that soil enzymatic activity was more susceptible to the interaction of temporal change and agricultural management than that of the bacterial community. Multiple regression analysis identified total nitrogen, EC, and phosphorus as the significant predictors of acid phosphatase, arylsulfatase, and β-glucosidase for explaining 29.5–39% of the variation. Moreover, the soil pH and EC were selected for the SOBS, Chao, ACE, and Shannon index to describe 33.8%, 79% of the variation, but no significant predictor was observed in the dominant bacterial phyla. Additionally, the temporal change involved in the soil properties had a greater effect on bacterial richness and diversity, and enzymatic activity than that of the dominant phyla of bacteria.

Conclusions
A long-term sustainable agriculture in litchi orchards would also decrease soil pH and phosphorus, resulting in low β-glucosidase and urease activity, bacterial richness, and diversity. Nevertheless, application of chemical fertilizer could facilitate the soil acidification and lead to adverse effects on soil quality. The relationship between bacterial structure and biologically-driven ecological processes can be explored by the cross-over analysis of enzymatic activity, soil properties and bacterial composition.
360-degree video in education: An overview and a comparative social media data analysis of the last decade
Authors: Lampropoulos Georgios , Barkoukis Vassilis , Burden Kevin , Anastasiadis Theofylaktos 
Published: September 2021

AbstractDue to its immersive and interactive nature, 360-degree video is becoming ever more popular. However, little is known about the public’s viewpoints and attitudes regarding the use of this emerging technology in educational contexts. This study reviews the research evidence for 360° video, virtual learning environments and social media and presents related studies. Moreover, the methodology, the tools and the analysis process used to comparatively analyze social media data are presented and the results that arose are showcased. The use of 360° video in education is discussed and directions for future research are given. Based on the data from the last 10 years, the main findings of the study show that 360° video and its use in educational settings are recognized positively by the public who mostly express anticipation, trust and joy when referring to it. Nonetheless, teachers are unfamiliar with 360° video and do not have the necessary technical skills to develop educational material using it or incorporating it into teaching activities. Finally, 360° video is proven to be an effective educational tool which satisfies the emerging educational needs, enriches the teaching and learning process and promotes students’ motivation, active participation and engagement, rendering, thus, learning more effective.
Mechanical properties of unmodified and montmorillonite-modified epoxy compounds. Part I: compression test
Authors: Rudawska Anna 
Published: September 2021

AbstractThe aim of the article was to determine the compressive strength and compressive strain of an unmodified and a modified epoxy compounds containing a montmorillonite filler, as well as to determine the effect of temperature and an aging time on the mechanical parameters of the considered epoxy compounds. The subject of the research was both the unmodified and the modified adhesive compounds. The unmodified epoxy compounds were made in four variants, which included the epoxy resins based on a bisphenol A as well as the curing agents: a triethylenetetramine and a polyamide curing agent. The modified compounds containing the montmorillonite filler, were also made in four variants. The samples were subjected in a thermal chamber at 80 °C for 1 and 2 months and in a thermal shock chamber in the temperature range from − 40 °C to 80 °C for 1 and 2 months. The reference samples were seasoned at room temperature 20–25 °C. The epoxy compounds samples were subjected to the compression strength tests in accordance with ISO 604 standard. The compressive strength is influenced by the environment and temperature, the aging time and the presence of the modifying agent. The epoxy compounds subjected at elevated or variable temperatures have higher compressive strength than the reference epoxy compounds. The operation of the climatic chamber or the thermal shock chamber makes the samples more deformable than the reference samples.
Kinetic measurement system use in individuals following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a scoping review of methodological approaches
Authors: Labban Wasim , Stadnyk Meredith , Sommerfeldt Mark , Nathanail Stephanie , Dennett Liz , Westover Lindsey , Manaseer Thaer , Beaupre Lauren 
Published: September 2021

AbstractPurposeOur primary objectives were to (1) describe current approaches for kinetic measurements in individuals following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and (2) suggest considerations for methodological reporting. Secondarily, we explored the relationship between kinetic measurement system findings and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs).MethodsWe followed the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews and Arksey and O’Malley’s 6-stage framework. Seven electronic databases were systematically searched from inception to June 2020. Original research papers reporting parameters measured by kinetic measurement systems in individuals at least 6-months post primary ACLR were included.ResultsIn 158 included studies, 7 kinetic measurement systems (force plates, balance platforms, pressure mats, force-measuring treadmills, Wii balance boards, contact mats connected to jump systems, and single-sensor insoles) were identified 4 main movement categories (landing/jumping, standing balance, gait, and other functional tasks). Substantial heterogeneity was noted in the methods used and outcomes assessed; this review highlighted common methodological reporting gaps for essential items related to movement tasks, kinetic system features, justification and operationalization of selected outcome parameters, participant preparation, and testing protocol details. Accordingly, we suggest considerations for methodological reporting in future research. Only 6 studies included PROMs with inconsistency in the reported parameters and/or PROMs.ConclusionClear and accurate reporting is vital to facilitate cross-study comparisons and improve the clinical application of kinetic measurement systems after ACLR. Based on the current evidence, we suggest methodological considerations to guide reporting in future research. Future studies are needed to examine potential correlations between kinetic parameters and PROMs.
Evaluation of a simultaneous adsorption device for cytokines and platelet–neutrophil complexes in vitro and in a rabbit acute lung injury model
Authors: Sekiya Yumiko , Shimada Kaoru , Takahashi Hiroshi , Kuga Chisa , Komachi Shunsuke , Miwa Keishi , Kotani Toru 
Published: September 2021

AbstractBackgroundPlatelet–neutrophil complexes (PNCs) readily migrate into tissues and induce tissue damage via cytokine or other pathogenic factors release. These actions are involved in onset and progression of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Thus, simultaneous removal of cytokines and activated neutrophils, including PNCs by blood purification may prevent development of ARDS and enhance drug effects. The goal of this study was to examine the effect of a newly developed adsorption column (NOA-001) that eliminates cytokines and activated neutrophils in a lung injury model.ResultsAdsorption of cytokines, such as IL-8, IL-6 and HMGB-1, and PNCs was first measured in vitro. Lung injury was induced by HCl and lipopolysaccharide intratracheal infusion in rabbits ventilated at a low tidal volume (7–8 mL/kg) and PEEP (2.5 cmH2O) for lung protection. Arterial blood gas, hematologic values, plasma IL-8, blood pressure and heart rate were measured, and lung damage was evaluated histopathologically in animals treated with 8-h direct hemoperfusion with or without use of NOA-001. The in vitro adsorption rates for IL-8, IL-6, HMGB-1, activated granulocytes and PNCs were 99.5 (99.4–99.5)%, 63.9 (63.4–63.9)%, 57.6 (57.4–62.1)%, 9.9 (-4.4–21.3)% and 60.9 (49.0–67.6)%, respectively. Absorption of PNCs onto fibers was confirmed microscopically. These adsorption effects were associated with several improvements in the rabbit model. In respiratory function, the PaO2/FIO2ratios at 8 h were 314 ± 55 mmHg in the NOA-001 group and 134 ± 41 mmHg in the sham group. The oxygenation index and PaCO2at 8 h were 9.6 ± 3.1 and 57.0 ± 9.6 mmHg in the sham group and 3.0 ± 0.8 and 40.4 ± 4.5 mmHg in the NOA-001 group, respectively (p < 0.05). Blood pH at 8 h reached 7.18 ± 0.06 in the sham group, but was maintained at 7.36 ± 0.03 (within the normal range) in the NOA-001 group (p < 0.05). In lung histopathology, fewer hyaline membrane and inflammatory cells were observed in the NOA-001 group.ConclusionA column for simultaneous removal of cytokines and PNCs showed efficacy for improvement of pulmonary function in an animal model. This column may be effective in support of treatment of ARDS.
Corneal collagen cross-linking epithelium-on vs. epithelium-off: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: D’Oria Francesco , Palazón Antonio , Alio Jorge L. 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background
The purpose of the study was to determine the advantages and disadvantages of epi-on corneal cross-linking (CXL) techniques compared with standard epi-off CXL.

Methods
We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized studies of interventions (NRSIs) and we evaluated the selected papers according to the Cochrane risk of bias tool. We considered, as primary outcomes, average Kmax flattening, changes in uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuity (UDVA and CDVA); as secondary outcomes, we considered changes in pachymetry values and endothelial cell density (ECD). We also investigated adverse events related to the treatments and treatment failure. Meta-analysis was conducted with a fixed or random-effects model using weighted mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) as the effect size.

Results
A total of 15 studies were included and among these 15 trials, 9 were RCTs and 6 were NRSIs, but only 4 studies showed no high risk of bias and were included in this meta-analysis. Our analysis revealed significant postoperative differences in CDVA (MD = 0.07; 95% CI 0.04 to 0.10; P < 0.001), and no significative differences in UDVA, Kmax, central corneal thickness (CCT) and ECD (P > 0.05). Epi-on CXL protocol was found to be significantly less prompt to have risks of delay in epithelial healing (P = 0.035) and persistent stromal haze (P = 0.026).

Conclusion
Epi-on CXL is as effective as epi-off CXL. Except for a higher significant improvement in CDVA with current epi-on protocols, our meta-analysis demonstrates that epi-on and epi-off CXL have comparable effects on visual, topographic, pachymetric, and endothelial parameters. Epi-on CXL has clinical advantages in terms of comfort and avoidance of complications as it reduces the risk of developing delay in epithelial healing and persistent stromal haze.
Plane wave in non-local semiconducting rotating media with Hall effect and three-phase lag fractional order heat transfer
Authors: Kaur Iqbal , Singh Kulvinder 
Published: September 2021

AbstractThis paper deals with the propagation of the plane wave in a nonlocal magneto-thermoelastic semiconductor solid with rotation. The fractional-order three-phase lag theory of thermoelasticity with two temperatures has been applied. When a longitudinal wave is incident on the surface z = 0, four types of reflected coupled longitudinal waves (the coupled longitudinal displacement wave, the coupled thermal wave, coupled carrier density wave, and coupled transverse displacement wave) are identified. The plane wave characteristics such as phase velocities, specific loss, attenuation coefficient, and penetration depth of various reflected waves are computed. The effects of two temperatures, non-local parameter, fractional order parameter, and Hall current on these wave characteristics are illustrated graphically with the use of MATLAB software.
Effects of Non-periodized and Linear Periodized Combined Exercise Training on Insulin Resistance Indicators in Adults with Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Streb Anne Ribeiro , dos Santos Leonel Larissa , Delevatti Rodrigo Sudatti , Cavaglieri Cláudia Regina , Del Duca Giovani Firpo 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background
The aim was to verify the effect of non-periodized and linear periodized combined (aerobic plus resistance) exercise training on insulin resistance markers in adults with obesity.

Methods
A blinded randomized control trial was conducted with three groups of individuals with obesity (BMI, 30–39.9 kg/m2): control group (CG, n = 23), non-periodized group (NG, n = 23), and linear periodized group (PG, n = 23). The NG and PG performed aerobic and resistance exercises in the same session in aerobic-resistance order for 16 weeks. Both intervention groups trained three sessions weekly, with a total duration of 60 min each. The aerobic training of the NG had a duration of 30 min always between 50% and 59% of the reserve heart rate (HRres), while resistance exercise was comprised of 6 exercises, performed always in 2 × 10–12 maximum repetitions (MRs). The PG progressed the aerobic and resistance training from 40%–49% to 60%–69% (HRres) and from 2 × 12–14 to 2 × 8–10 RM, respectively, along the intervention period. The evaluated indicators of insulin resistance included fasting glucose, fasting insulin, and homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) collected pre- and post-intervention. The analyses to verify the exercise training effect were performed using generalized estimating equations.

Results
After 16 weeks of training, per protocol analysis (n = 39) showed significant reductions in HOMA-IR only in the training groups (NG: Δ = − 1.6, PG: Δ = − 0.6; p = 0.094). Intention-to-treat analysis demonstrated significant reductions in fasting insulin levels (NG: Δ = − 1.4, PG: Δ = − 1.0; p = 0.004) and HOMA-IR (NG: Δ = − 5.5, PG: Δ = − 3.8; p = 0.002).

Conclusion
Periodized and non-periodized combined exercise training similarly reduces insulin resistance markers in adults with obesity.
Trial registration: Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials, RBR-3c7rt3. Registered 07 February 2019—https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/trial/5970/1.
Inhibition of phospholipase A2, platelet aggregation and egg albumin induced rat paw oedema as anti-inflammatory effect of Peltophorun pterocarpus stem-bark
Authors: Enechi Osmund Chukwuma , Okeke Emmanuel Sunday , Awoh Ogochukwu Emmanuel , Okoye Charles Obinwanne , Odo Chinaza Kyrian 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background
Most medicinal plants presently employed in traditional medicine are used without scientific evidence, thereby suggesting a need to explore efficient and reliable investigations of their potential. We, therefore, conducted the present study to ascertain the efficacy of flavonoid-rich extract of Peltophorum pterocarpum sterm-bark in the treatment and management of inflammatory disorders as employed in folk medicine.

Materials and methods
Flavonoid-rich extract of Peltophorum pterocarpum sterm-bark and a total of fifty-five (55) Wistar rats were used for this study. Eighteen (18) mice were used for toxicity testing, and the phytochemical analysis was done using the Trease and Evans method, while the acute toxicity was done using Lorke’s method. In vivo anti-inflammatory study was done using the egg albumin-induced paw oedema method, while the in vitro anti-inflammatory studies were performed for the extract using phospholipase A2 inhibition and calcium chloride-induced platelet aggregation assays.

Results
The phytochemical analysis revealed that the extract of Peltophorum pterocarpum sterm-bark contains tannins, terpenoids, steroids, phenols, alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, and saponins ranging from 0.307 ± 0.02 to 1279.567 ± 149.868. The acute toxicity test of the extract showed no toxicity up to 5000 mg/kg body weight. In the systemic oedema of the rat paw, scalar doses of the extract significantly (p < 0.05) suppressed the development of paw oedema induced by egg albumin, particularly with the Indomethacin (1.77 ± 0.41) when compared with the control (5.50 ± 0.26). However, varying doses of the extract significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited phospholipase A2 activity and CaCl2-Induced platelet aggregation in a concentration, dose, and time-dependent manner, in comparison to prednisolone.

Conclusion
These results indicate that the extract exhibited anti-inflammatory potential, and the mechanism of this activity has a promising ability to inhibit phospholipase A2 activity and platelet aggregation in rats inflicted with paw oedema.
Evaluation of cellular response and drug delivery efficacy of nanoporous stainless steel material
Authors: Bae Inho , Lim Kyung-Seob , Park Jun-Kyu , Song Ju Han , Oh Sin-Hye , Kim Jung-Woo , Zhang Zijiao , Park Chan , Koh Jeong-Tae 
Published: September 2021

Abstract

Objective
Various surface modification techniques that can further improve the function and usability of stainless steel as a medical device have been reported. In the present study, the physical and biological properties of nanoporous stainless steel as well as its usefulness for drug delivery were assessed.

Methods

The specimen was prepared with a circular disk shape (15 mm in diameter and 1 mm in thickness). The disk was subjected to electropolishing at a constant voltage of 20 V and 10 A for 10 min in an acidic environment (50% H
2
SO
4
). Everolimus (EVL) was used as a testing drug for drug-loading capacity of the material surface and release kinetics. The physiobiological properties of the material were assessed using platelet adhesion, and smooth muscle cell (SMC) adhesion, migration, and proliferation assays.

Results
The surface roughness of the postpolishing group was greater than that of the nonpolishing group. Platelet adhesion and SMC adhesion and migration were inhibited in the postpolishing group compared to those in the prepolishing group. In the postpolishing group, the total amount of EVL on the surface (i.e., drug storage rate) was higher and the drug release rate was lower, with half the amount of the EVL released within 4 days compared with only 1 day for that of the prepolishing group.

Conclusion
Taken together, this stainless steel with a nanoporous surface could be used as a medical device for controlling cellular responses and carrying drugs.
Exploring the trajectories of highly skilled migration law and policy in Japan and the UK
Authors: Wakisaka Daisuke , Cardwell Paul James 
Published: September 2021

AbstractJapan and the UK appear to have few commonalities in terms of their history of and approach to migration law and policy. However, strong similarities in their contemporary approaches can be detected. Migration sits at the very top of the national political agendas and both have undertaken successive, major policy reforms over the past decade. Both have governments publicly committed to policies to attract ‘highly skilled’ migrants, with a restrictive approach towards ‘unskilled’ migrants. This article draws out the similarities and differences of migration law and policy in Japan and the UK via their respective legislative structures and policy trajectories on highly skilled migration. The article argues that Japan and the UK promote a market-driven model which enables highly skilled migration to be ‘sold’ to publics believed to be hostile to increased migration. Yet, the rapid changes in policy and revising of applicable rules often prevents the successful recruitment of highly skilled migrants to both countries.
Clinician's attitude to enteral nutrition with percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy: a survey in China
Authors: Zhang Yijie , Ma Chen , Li Chenxi , Chen Qian , Shen Meifen , Wang Yuyu 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is recommended for long-term enteral nutrition. However, long-term nasogastric (NGT) feeding is still commonplace in China. We surveyed Chinese clinicians’ opinions toward PEG feeding in order to identify the potential barriers to acceptancy of PEG feeding.

Methods
A self-reported questionnaire was developed and distributed to 600 doctors. Five-point Likert scales were used for most responses.

Results
Of 525 respondents, the mainly nutritional support method was NGT while PEG was less used. Doctors working in the tertiary class A hospitals and radiotherapy department were more likely to choose PEG feeding (p = 0.000). Overall, 241 (46%) participants did not know PEG and 284 (54%) have different understanding degree of PEG. Age (p = 0.002), working life (p = 0.044) and professionalism (p = 0.005) were significantly related to the understanding of PEG. Levels of agreement was high (score of 3.47) for using PEG in patients with prolonged stroke-associated dysphagia. There was high agreement level in the statement that PEG was unnecessary when NGT could sustain the basic needs of patients, though better outcome can be predicted with PEG feeding. The highest scoring factor (score of 3.91) that influenced clinicians’ choice of PEG was resistance from patients and families and the second one was the poor cooperation among departments (score of 3.80).

Conclusions
Doctors’ insufficient knowledge of PEG feeding, resistance from patients and families, poor cooperation among departments, all these factors leading physicians to prefer more conservative treatment to avoid disputes rather than better ones.