bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Seasonal coordination of aboveground vegetative and reproductive growth and storage in apple trees subjected to defoliation, flower and fruit thinning
Authors: Plavcová Lenka , Jupa Radek , Hoch Günter , Mészáros Martin , Scháňková Klára 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Key message
The growth rates of current-year shoots, fruits and trunks in apple trees peak sequentially during the growing season. The period of most intense growth coincided with the lowest NSC reserves.

Abstract
Vegetative and reproductive growth and storage are major carbon sinks in fruit trees; however, little is known about their mutual seasonal coordination. In this study, we monitored growth dynamics of trunks, fruits and current-year shoots together with the concentration of non-structural carbohydrates (NSC) in trees subjected to defoliation, early season flower thinning, mid-season fruit thinning and their respective combinations across the season. We found that defoliation had a negative effect on both trunk radial growth and annual fruit yield. Flower and fruit thinning caused lower fruit number per tree, but the individual fruits were larger resulting in a similar annual fruit yield among the treatments. Shoot extension growth was not significantly affected by the defoliation and flower and fruit thinning treatments. The concentration of non-structural carbohydrates was also similar across treatments. Modelled daily growth rates of shoots, fruits and trunks peaked sequentially one after another throughout the growing season with a delay of 15 and 18 days, respectively. The period of most intense growth of tree’s organs corresponded well with the lowest NSC reserves and a temporary depletion of starch in 1-year-old branches. Taken together, our study illustrates a tight temporal coordination of major carbon sinks and improves our understanding of sink/source relations of commercially important apple trees.
Calculation of the minimum clinically important difference (MCID) using different methodologies: case study and practical guide
Authors: Klukowska Anita M. , Vandertop W. Peter , Schröder Marc L. , Staartjes Victor E. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Establishing thresholds of change that are actually meaningful for the patient in an outcome measurement instrument is paramount. This concept is called the minimum clinically important difference (MCID). We summarize available MCID calculation methods relevant to spine surgery, and outline key considerations, followed by a step-by-step working example of how MCID can be calculated, using publicly available data, to enable the readers to follow the calculations themselves.

Methods
Thirteen MCID calculations methods were summarized, including anchor-based methods, distribution-based methods, Reliable Change Index, 30% Reduction from Baseline, Social Comparison Approach and the Delphi method. All methods, except the latter two, were used to calculate MCID for improvement of Zurich Claudication Questionnaire (ZCQ) Symptom Severity of patients with lumbar spinal stenosis. Numeric Rating Scale for Leg Pain and Japanese Orthopaedic Association Back Pain Evaluation Questionnaire Walking Ability domain were used as anchors.

Results
The MCID for improvement of ZCQ Symptom Severity ranged from 0.8 to 5.1. On average, distribution-based methods yielded lower MCID values, than anchor-based methods. The percentage of patients who achieved the calculated MCID threshold ranged from 9.5% to 61.9%.

Conclusions
MCID calculations are encouraged in spinal research to evaluate treatment success. Anchor-based methods, relying on scales assessing patient preferences, continue to be the “gold-standard” with receiver operating characteristic curve approach being optimal. In their absence, the minimum detectable change approach is acceptable. The provided explanation and step-by-step example of MCID calculations with statistical code and publicly available data can act as guidance in planning future MCID calculation studies.
Nonlinear poro-thermo-forced vibration in curved sandwich magneto-electro-elastic shells under hygrothermal environment
Authors: Selvamani Rajendran , Ebrahimi Farzad , Yaylacı Murat , Öztürk Şevval , Yaylacı Ecren Uzun 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis research employs a multiple scales perturbation approach to evaluate the nonlinear wave propagation behaviors of a doubly curved sandwich composite piezoelectric shell with a flexible core in a hygrothermal environment. Stress and strain calculations for the flexible core and face sheets are carried out using Reddy's third-order shear deformation theory (TSDT) and third-order polynomial theory, respectively. The study explores the synergistic effects of a multilayered shell, flexible core, and magneto-rheological layer (MR) in revealing the nonlinearity of both in-plane and vertical moment within the core. The Halpin–Tsai model is employed to derive the properties of polymer/carbon nanotube/fiber (PCF) and polymer/graphene platelet/fiber (PGF) three-phase composite shells. The governing equations for the multiscale shell are derived using Hamilton's formulation. The research investigates temperature variations, diverse distribution patterns, curvature ratios, and magnetic fields through numerical analysis, presenting the results graphically and prior research has demonstrated the accuracy of these methods. Notably, these factors exert significant influence on the frequency-amplitude curves of the smart structure.
Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oil enhances salt stress tolerance of durum wheat seedlings through ROS detoxification and stimulation of antioxidant defense
Authors: Ben Saad Rania , Ben Romdhane Walid , Wiszniewska Alina , Baazaoui Narjes , Taieb Bouteraa Mohamed , Chouaibi Yosra , Alfaifi Mohammad Y. , Kačániová Miroslava , Čmiková Natália , Ben Hsouna Anis , Garzoli Stefania 
Published: June 2024

AbstractSalt-induced stress poses a significant barrier to agricultural productivity by impeding crop growth. Presently, environmentalists are dedicated to safeguarding food security by enhancing agricultural yields in challenging environments. Biostimulants play a crucial role in mitigating abiotic stresses in crop production, and among these, plant essential oils (EOs) stand out as organic substances with diverse biological effects on living organisms. Among the natural promoters of plant growth, Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oil (RoEO) has gained considerable attention. Although the manifold effects of essential oils (EOs) on plant growth have been extensively demonstrated, their impact on salt stress tolerance in durum wheat seedlings remains unexplored. This investigation was undertaken to evaluate the biostimulatory capabilities of RoEO on the durum wheat cultivar “Mahmoudi.” The effects of three RoEO concentrations (1, 2.5, and 5 ppm) on seed germination, growth establishment, and the induction of salt resistance under salinity conditions (150 mM NaCl) were tested. At 5 ppm, RoEO enhanced seedlings’ tolerance to salinity by improving growth and reducing membrane deterioration and oxidative stress-induced damage. The expression profile analyses of seven stress-related genes (TdNHX1, TdSOS1, TdSOD, TdCAT, TdGA20-ox1, TdNRT2.1, and TdGS) using RT-qPCR showed enhancement of several important genes in durum wheat seedlings treated with 5 ppm RoEO, even under control conditions, which may be related to salt stress tolerance. The results indicate that the application of RoEO suggests a possible alternative strategy to increase salt tolerance in durum wheat seedlings towards better growth quality, thus increasing ROS scavenging and activation of antioxidant defense.
Outcomes after gastrectomy according to the Gastrectomy Complications Consensus Group (GCCG) in the Dutch Upper GI Cancer Audit (DUCA)
Authors: Visser Maurits R. , Voeten Daan M. , Gisbertz Suzanne S. , Ruurda Jelle. P. , van Berge Henegouwen Mark I. , van Hillegersberg Richard ,   the Dutch Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Audit (DUCA) Group
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
In 2019, the Gastrectomy Complications Consensus Group (GCCG) published a standardized set of complications aiming toward uniform reporting of post-gastrectomy complications. This study aimed to report outcomes after gastrectomy in the Netherlands according to GCCG definitions and compare them to previously reported national results and the European database reported by the GCCG.

Methods
This nationwide, population-based cohort study included all patients undergoing gastrectomy for gastric cancer registered in the DUCA in 2020–2021. Postoperative morbidity and 30-day/in-hospital mortality were analyzed according to the GCCG definitions. For all patients, baseline characteristics and outcomes were compared with the GCCG cohort consisting of 27 European expert centers (GASTRODATA; 2017–2018).

Results
In 2020–2021, 782 patients underwent gastrectomy in the Netherlands. Variation was seen in baseline characteristics between the Dutch and the GCCG cohort (N = 1349), most notably in minimally invasive surgery (80.6% vs 19.6%, p < 0.001). In the Netherlands, 223 (28.5%) patients developed a total of 407 complications, the most frequent being non-surgical infections (28.5%) and anastomotic leakage (13.4%). The overall complication and 30-day mortality rates were similar between the Dutch and GCCG cohort (28.5% vs 29.8%, p = 0.563; 3.7% vs 3.6%, p = 0.953). Higher surgical and endoscopic/radiologic reintervention rates were observed in the Netherlands compared to the GCCG cohort (10.7% vs 7.8%, p = 0.025; 10.9% vs 2.9%, p < 0.001).

Conclusion
Reporting outcomes according to the standardized GCCG definitions allows for international benchmarking. Postoperative outcomes were comparable between Dutch and GCCG cohorts, but both exceed the international benchmark for expert gastrectomy care, highlighting targets for national and international quality improvement.
A New Investigation to Discriminate Sexes in Alive Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Using Cyp19a1a and Dmrt1 Gene Expression in Tail Fin Tissues
Authors: El-Zaeem Samy Y. , El-Hanafy Amr , El-Dahhar Alaa A. , Elmaghraby Ayaat M. , Hendy Amany M. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThe Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), a gonochoristic teleost fish with a XX/XY sex-determination system, is an ideal model for investigating gonadal sex differentiation. During gonadal differentiation, the expression of cyp19a1a in XX gonads and dmrt1 in XY gonads are required for undifferentiated tissues to develop into ovary or testis. In this study, quantitative real-time RT-PCR assessed the expression of cyp19a1a and dmrt1 genes in gonads and tail fin tissues. Differences in gene expression mean among sexually differentiated fish were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and validation of mixed model using discriminant analysis (DA) for morphometric traits and the gene expression in gonads and tail fin tissues used to validate and utilize them in discriminating sexes in sex-differentiated Nile Tilapia fish. The results revealed that, cyp19a1a gene expression in female ovaries was more significant than dmrt1 in male testis. In the other hand, the dmrt1 gene expression in the tail fin was higher in males than females. Both, cyp19a1a and dmrt1 genes, can discriminate fish sexes by 100% by using their expression in tail fin tissues. In conclusion, the cyp19a1a and dmrt1 genes could be used as a genetic marker to discriminate between the Nile Tilapia sexes, whereas used as an indicator for ovarian or testis differentiation in sexually differentiated Nile Tilapia using tail fin tissues. It is worth mentioning that this is the first investigation for using cyp19a1a and dmrt1 genes from Nile Tilapia tail fin tissues in sex determination.
Establishing the connection between speech-language pathologists and technology developers in designing novel textile-based AAC (TAAC) technologies
Authors: Vihriälä Tanja A. , Lintula Lotta , Raisamo Roope , Virkki Johanna 
Published: June 2024

AbstractAugmentative and alternative communication (AAC) methods aim to enable a variety of interactions and participation for those with complex communication needs. AAC’s benefits are well known. However, many with these unique needs do not have access to these technologies, do not use them to their full potential, or abandon the system for a variety of reasons. Novel approaches are needed to enable AAC’s availability, accessibility, and independent communication opportunities. Creating novel, functional AAC systems requires understanding the diversity of known barriers. Furthermore, collaboration between technology developers and those stakeholders who can see the problems is crucial.Therefore, this study aims to establish a connection between speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and technology developers by implementing the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) Framework to evaluate the existing barriers and assess which aspects of functional ability are affected when using a novel textile-based AAC technology (TAAC) perceived by SLPs.To this end, we organized an online survey and focus group discussions for 12 SLPs experienced in implementing AAC. Meaningful concepts were extracted and linked to the ICF framework in a deductive, qualitative research design. The results revealed a broad range of factors that affect one’s functional abilities in the areas of communication, learning and applying knowledge, using the TAAC, and motivation when the TAAC is individually designed to meet the requirements of ease and appropriate content.The results of this analysis provide the platform for implementing the ICF into the AAC technology design, offering a common platform for collaboration between AAC experts and technology developers.
PD-L1 inhibitor versus PD-1 inhibitor plus bevacizumab with transvascular intervention in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Huang Zhenkun , Chen Tiejun , Li Wenbin , Qiu Jiliang , Liu Shaoru , Wu Zongfeng , Li Binkui , Yuan Yunfei , He Wei 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBoth atezolizumab (a PD-L1 inhibitor) plus bevacizumab (A+B) and sintilimab (a PD-1 inhibitor) plus bevacizumab (S+B) are recommended as the first-line regimen for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in China. Different efficacy between the two regimens combined with transvascular intervention for unresectable HCC (uHCC) remain unknown. We retrospectively analyzed uHCC patients treated in three centers by simultaneous combination of A+B or S+B with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and FOLFOX-based hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC). Objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS) and treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) were compared. Totally 188 patients were included, with 92 and 96 administered A+B+TACE-HAIC (ABTH) and S+B+TACE-HAIC (SBTH), respectively. ORRs (62.0 vs. 70.8%, respectively; P = 0.257) and disease control rates (88.0 vs. 93.8%, P = 0.267) were similar between groups by the mRECIST criteria. ABTH showed no survival advantage over SBTH, with median PFS times of 11.7 months and 13.0 months, respectively (HR = 0.81, 95% CI, 0.52–1.26, P = 0.35) and similar OS times (HR = 1.19, 95% CI, 0.32–4.39, P = 0.8). No significant differences were observed in grade 3–4 TRAEs between groups. Either PD-L1 or PD-1 inhibitor plus bevacizumab combined with TACE-HAIC have similarly excellent therapeutic efficacy with manageable adverse events, representing promising treatment options for uHCC.
Psychotherapeutische Behandlung von Menschen mit Störung der Intelligenzentwicklung und dissoziativen Anfällen
Authors: Kruse Björn , Kulik Katja , Vizzio Violeta Victoria 
Published: June 2024

Zusammenfassung
Hintergrund
Menschen mit Störung der Intelligenzentwicklung entwickeln häufig dissoziative Anfälle. Bei Psychotherapierenden bestehen oftmals große Unsicherheiten bei der Behandlung dieser Klientel.

Ziel der Arbeit/Material und Methoden
Es erfolgt die Darstellung des Vorgehens mit speziellen Hinweisen zur Anpassung der Behandlung bei Menschen mit Störung der Intelligenzentwicklung.

Ergebnisse und Diskussion
Die Behandlung dissoziativer Anfälle sollte bei Menschen mit Störung der Intelligenzentwicklung grundsätzlich gleich wie bei Normintelligenten erfolgen. Die erforderlichen Anpassungen sind mit etwas Übung leicht umzusetzen. Ein Umdenken in der Versorgung von psychisch kranken Menschen mit Störung der Intelligenzentwicklung ist daher dringend erforderlich und wünschenswert.
Correlating the seismic acceleration of reinforced concrete moment-resisting-frames with structural and earthquake characteristics
Authors: Parizat Shir , Kamai Ronnie , Shmerling Assaf 
Published: June 2024

AbstractNonstructural components (NSCs) are elements within the building unrelated to the lateral load-carrying system. Failure of NSCs during earthquakes can result in casualties, significant economic losses, disabled critical infrastructures, and loss of building functionality. The NSCs can be categorized into two primary groups: deformation-sensitive and acceleration-sensitive. Thanks to well-established seismic design guidelines and standards, buildings may suffer minor seismic deformations – resulting in lesser damage to deformation-sensitive components. However, planning under the peak floor response or peak floor acceleration (PFA) is getting much less attention – exposing the acceleration-sensitive components to greater risk. This manuscript develops equations for moment-resisting reinforced concrete frames (MRRCFs) that estimate the total floor acceleration. The data is gathered based on 984 inelastic response simulations, elaborated to create an idealized equation based on the earthquake characteristics. The developed equation offers engineers a quantitative approach to understanding the inertial forces applied to the NSCs within the building during earthquakes, allowing them to plan for potential risks due to earthquakes.
Impacts of climate change and agricultural diversification on agricultural production value of Thai farm households
Authors: Prommawin Benjapon , Svavasu Nattanun , Tanpraphan Spol , Saengavut Voravee , Jithitikulchai Theepakorn , Attavanich Witsanu , McCarl Bruce A. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis paper examines how rising temperatures impact the agricultural production value of Thai farmers, compares potential adaptation strategies like agricultural diversification, and analyzes future projections based on IPCC AR6 scenarios. We analyze nationally representative socioeconomic survey data from farm households alongside ERA5 weather data, utilizing econometric regression analysis. Our analysis reveals that higher temperatures lead to a reduction in agricultural output value, with the situation expected to worsen as global warming progresses. Furthermore, we find that households with diversified production practices, such as a variety of agricultural activities or multicropping, exhibit a greater capacity to adapt to rising temperatures. These findings substantiate the importance of the country’s policies promoting integrated farming and diversified crop-mix strategies.
Surface water monitoring of chemicals associated with animal husbandry in an agricultural region in the Netherlands using passive sampling
Authors: Rakonjac Nikola , Roex Erwin , Beeltje Henry 
Published: June 2024

AbstractCompounds originating from animal husbandry can pollute surface water through the application of manure to soil. Typically, grab sampling is employed to detect these residues, which only provides information on the concentration at the time of sampling. To better understand the emission patterns of these compounds, we utilized passive samplers in surface water to collect data at eight locations in a Dutch agricultural region, during different time intervals. As a passive sampler, we chose the integrative-based Speedisk® hydrophilic DVB. In total, we targeted 46 compounds, among which 25 antibiotics, three hormones, nine antiparasitics, and nine disinfectants. From these 46 compounds, 22 compounds accumulated in passive samplers in amounts above the limit of quantification in at least one sampling location. Over the 12-week deployment period, a time integrative uptake pattern was identified in 53% of the examined cases, with the remaining 47% not displaying this behavior. The occurrences without this behavior were primarily associated with specific location, particularly the most upstream location, or specific compounds. Our findings suggest that the proposed use of passive samplers, when compared in this limited context to traditional grab sampling, may provide enhanced efficiency and potentially enable the detection of a wider array of compounds. In fact, a number of compounds originating from animal husbandry activities were quantified for the first time in Dutch surface waters, such as flubendazole, florfenicol, and tilmicosine. The set-up of the sampling campaign also allowed to distinguish between different pollution levels during sampling intervals on the same location. This aspect gains particular significance when considering the utilization of different compounds on various occasions, hence, it has the potential to strengthen ongoing monitoring and mitigation efforts.
Classifying methods to quantify crop nitrogen input requirements
Authors: Simon Wolfram J. , van Zanten Hannah H. E. , Hijbeek Renske 
Published: June 2024

AbstractIn this short communication, we propose a framework that classifies methods for estimating crop nitrogen (N) input requirements along two dimensions: short-term versus long-term and current versus optimal crop management practices. The four resulting quadrants provide different perspectives on modelling methods, each distinctive in handling soil N supply, mineral versus organic N sources, management and yield levels. For each quadrant, study examples and data requirements are provided. We emphasise the importance of accurate and purpose-oriented selection of crop N requirement modelling methods and acknowledge the complexity and uncertainties inherent in N modelling, often due to a lack of data availability. The choice of methods to estimate N inputs strongly impacts model outcomes and conclusions, affecting agricultural practices, advisories, and policy strategies. Therefore, a decision tree is presented to support choices in assessing N input requirements so that models can help identify under and over-fertilisation hotspots, maintain soil fertility, and optimise crop yields, contributing to environmental protection and food security goals.
Biosensors with left ventricular assist devices
Authors: Abbassy Mahmoud , Ali Muhammad Zain , Sharma Riya Manas , Irani Yohan Porus , Dahlan Adil , Azhar Maimoona , Aslam Nadeem , Hasan Babar , Hameed Aamir 
Published: June 2024

AbstractHeart failure imposes a significant global health burden, standing as a primary contributor to mortality. Various indicators and physiological shifts within the body may hint at distinct cardiac conditions. Specific biosensors have the capability to identify these changes. Integrating or embedding these biosensors into mechanical circulatory support devices (MCSDs), such as left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), becomes crucial for monitoring alterations in biochemical and physiological factors subsequent to an MCSD implantation. Detecting abnormal changes early in the course of disease progression will allow for improved patient outcomes and prognosis following an MCSD implantation. The aim of this review is to explore the available biosensors that may be coupled or implanted alongside LVADs to monitor biomarkers and changes in physiological parameters. Different fabrication materials for the biosensors are discussed, including their advantages and disadvantages. This review also examines the feasibility of integrating feedback control mechanisms into LVAD systems using data from the biosensors. Challenges facing this emerging technology and future directions for research and development are outlined as well. The overarching goal is to provide an overview of how implanted biosensors may improve the performance and outcomes of LVADs through continuous monitoring and closed-loop control.
Graphical Abstract