bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Farmer’s perceptions of effectiveness of public agricultural extension services in South Africa: an exploratory analysis of associated factors
Authors: Maake Matome Moshobane Simeon , Antwi Michael Akwasi 
Published: May 2022

AbstractBackgroundEffective public extension and advisory services have the potential to improve agricultural productivity; net farm income; and food security amongst resource-poor farmers. However, studies conducted to measure the effectiveness of extension and advisory services, offered by the Government of South Africa, have focused on the methods used, instead of the guiding principles, such as demand-driven services; equity; prioritization of farmer’s needs; and social and human capital development. The aim of this research paper was to determine farmers’ perceptions regarding the effectiveness of public extension and advisory services and associated factors. Perceptions of the effectiveness were measured using sixteen variables. A group of 442 farmers, in the Gauteng province, receiving government agricultural extension and advisory services, were randomly selected to participate in the study. Using a semi-structured survey instrument, primary data was collected through physical interviews and then analysed using computer software.ResultsThe study found that public extension and advisory services in Gauteng were perceived as ineffective. Three socio-demographic factors (education level, age and farm/plot size) significantly influenced farmer’s perceptions towards public extension and advisory services. Moreover, the Principle Axis Factoring (PAF) results indicated that there were three underlying factors of the perceived effectiveness of public extension services, namely: relevance and good quality services; provision of information on improving agricultural production; and availability of the technologies required by farmers.ConclusionsLarge-scale farmers perceived public extension services to be less effective. The exploratory factor analysis extracted three underlying factors which accounted for 81.81% of the variance of the perceived effectiveness of public extension services. Farmers recommended that public extension and advisory services should be of good quality; relevant; and should improve agricultural production to be considered as effective by the farmers. Moreover, provision of extension and advisory services should be determined by farm/plot size.
Growth efficiency, intestinal biology, and nutrient utilization and requirements of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae compared to monogastric livestock species: a review
Authors: Seyedalmoosavi Mohammad M. , Mielenz Manfred , Veldkamp Teun , Daş Gürbüz , Metges Cornelia C. 
Published: May 2022

AbstractIn recent years, interest in the larvae of black soldier fly (BSF) (Hermetia illucens) as a sustainable protein resource for livestock feed has increased considerably. However, knowledge on the nutritional and physiological aspects of this insect, especially compared to other conventional farmed animals is scarce. This review presents a critical comparison of data on the growth potential and efficiency of the BSF larvae (BSFL) compared to conventional monogastric livestock species. Advantages of BSFL over other monogastric livestock species includes their high growth rate and their ability to convert low-grade organic waste into high-quality protein and fat-rich biomass suitable for use in animal feed. Calculations using literature data suggest that BSFL are more efficient than broilers, pigs and fish in terms of conversion of substrate protein into body mass, but less efficient than broilers and fish in utilization of substrate gross energy to gain body mass. BSFL growth efficiency varies greatly depending on the nutrient quality of their dietary substrates. This might be associated with the function of their gastrointestinal tract, including the activity of digestive enzymes, the substrate particle characteristics, and their intestinal microbial community. The conceived advantage of BSFL having an environmental footprint better than conventional livestock is only true if BSFL is produced on low-grade organic waste and its protein would directly be used for human consumption. Therefore, their potential role as a new species to better close nutrient cycles in agro-ecological systems needs to be reconsidered, and we conclude that BSFL is a complementary livestock species efficiently utilizing organic waste that cannot be utilized by other livestock. In addition, we provide comparative insight into morpho-functional aspects of the gut, characterization of digestive enzymes, gut microbiota and fiber digestion. Finally, current knowledge on the nutritional utilization and requirements of BSFL in terms of macro- and micro-nutrients is reviewed and found to be rather limited. In addition, the research methods to determine nutritional requirements of conventional livestock are not applicable for BSFL. Thus, there is a great need for research on the nutrient requirements of BSFL.
Medium-term consequences (5 years) of the Covid-19 crisis on work organization and occupational risks: a prospective study
Authors: Héry Michel , Malenfer Marc , de Jouvenel François , Grzesiak Laurie 
Published: May 2022

AbstractThe health crisis linked to Covid-19 has had the effect of strongly increasing the activity of certain trades or, on the contrary, decreasing it to the point of stopping. It has also disrupted the organization of work in companies: remote work, physical distancing, etc. The question that now arises is to know the sustainability of these developments, their influence on working conditions, and the associated occupational risks. To do this, a prospective study was conducted involving the reference body for occupational risk prevention in France (INRS), a prospective think tank (Futuribles), representatives of a dozen French companies, and a number of experts on these issues.
How peritoneal dialysis transforms the peritoneum and vasculature in children with chronic kidney disease—what can we learn for future treatment?
Authors: Bartosova Maria , Zarogiannis Sotirios G. , Schmitt Claus Peter ,   for the Members of the International Pediatric Peritoneal Biobank, Arbeiter Klaus , Ariceta Gema , Bayazit Aysun K. , Büscher Rainer , Caliskan Salim , Cerkauskiene Rimante , Drozdz Dorota , Fathallah-Shaykh Sahar , Klaus Günter , Krmar Rafael T. , Oh Jun , Peters Verena , Querfeld Uwe , Ranchin Bruno , Sallay Peter , Schaefer Betti , Taylan Christina , Testa Sara , VandeWalle Johann , Verrina Enrico , Vondrak Karel , Warady Bradley A. , Yap Yok Chin , Zaloszyc Ariane 
Published: May 2022

AbstractChildren with chronic kidney disease (CKD) suffer from inflammation and reactive metabolite-induced stress, which massively accelerates tissue and vascular aging. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is the preferred dialysis mode in children, but currently used PD fluids contain far supraphysiological glucose concentrations for fluid and toxin removal and glucose degradation products (GDP). While the peritoneal membrane of children with CKD G5 exhibits only minor alterations, PD fluids trigger numerous molecular cascades resulting in major peritoneal membrane inflammation, hypervascularization, and fibrosis, with distinct molecular and morphological patterns depending on the GDP content of the PD fluid used. PD further aggravates systemic vascular disease. The systemic vascular aging process is particularly pronounced when PD fluids with high GDP concentrations are used. GDP induce endothelial junction disintegration, apoptosis, fibrosis, and intima thickening. This review gives an overview on the molecular mechanisms of peritoneal and vascular transformation and strategies to improve peritoneal and vascular health in patients on PD.
The study of soft soil seismic subsidence based on the 3D OpenSees model
Authors: Li Ping , Gu Junru , Liu Yingci , Li Yuying 
Published: May 2022

AbstractSoft soils are characterized by high sensitivity, low strength, and susceptibility to seismic subsidence. In this study, nonlinear dynamic finite element analysis was performed using the OpenSees numerical simulation method to evaluate the seismic subsidence response of soft soil sites to ground motions. Higher peak acceleration of ground motion was found to enhance the degree of uneven seismic subsidence, depth of the seismic depression, and damage to the horizontal surface. The frequency characteristic of ground motion is another factor that influences the seismic subsidence of soft soil. Ground motions with low-frequency contents or high amplitudes lead to a more pronounced seismic subsidence of soft soil, particularly in the case of ground motion that exhibits frequency predominantly close to one of the soil sites. The findings of this study expand the current understanding of seismic subsidence of soft soil.
Long-term survival of an adult patient with undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma of the liver with multidisciplinary treatment: a case report and literature review
Authors: Endo Yukiko Kumata , Fujio Atsushi , Murakami Keigo , Sasaki Kengo , Miyazawa Koji , Kashiwadate Toshiaki , Tokodai Kazuaki , Miyagi Shigehito , Fujishima Fumiyoshi , Unno Michiaki , Kamei Takashi 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
Undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma of the liver (UESL) primarily occurs in children; it is rarely seen in adults and appears to have a poor prognosis. However, in recent years, some cases indicated that long-term survival was possible due to a combination of multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, and liver transplantation.

Case presentation
A 33-year-old female patient presented with a complaint of epigastric pain, for which she underwent a medical examination. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging showed a cystic tumor in the right hepatic lobe, approximately 10 cm in size. During observation, the abdominal pain worsened, and a contrast-enhanced CT revealed that the tumor’s peripheral solid components increased in size and volume, suggesting a malignant tumor threatening hepatic rupture. Subsequently, transcatheter arterial embolization of the anterior and posterior segmental branches of the hepatic artery was performed, followed by right trisectionectomy. Histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations of the lesion revealed UESL. Two months after the surgery, we initiated sarcoma-directed chemotherapy with doxorubicin because of multiple metastases to the liver. After initiating the chemotherapy, she received another regimen using gemcitabine/docetaxel, eribulin, trabectedin, ifosfamide/mesna, pazopanib, and cisplatin. During the chemotherapy, she underwent palliative surgery twice due to the progressive disease. She lived for 49 months after the initial operation.

Conclusions
Improved long-term survival was achieved in an adult patient with UESL after multidisciplinary therapy, involving a combination of three surgical procedures and several chemotherapies.
Trends and determinants of minimum acceptable diet intake among infant and young children aged 6–23 months in Ethiopia: a multilevel analysis of Ethiopian demographic and health survey
Authors: Teshome Firanbon , Tadele Afework 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
The minimum acceptable diet (MAD) has been used globally as one of the main indicators to assess the adequacy of feeding practices. More than half of the causes of under-five child mortality in developing countries including Ethiopia are attributed to malnutrition. With the exception of anecdotal information on the subject, progress overtime and how it influences the MAD has not been studied or well understood. Thus, this study aimed to determine the trends and determinants of MAD intake among infants and young children aged 6–23 months in Ethiopia.

Methods
A community-based national survey dataset from the Ethiopian demographic and health survey (EDHS) 2019 were to identify predictors of MAD. In addition, the 2011, 2016, and 2019 EDHS data was used for trend analysis. The World Health Organization indicators were used to measure MAD. A weighted sample of 1457 infants and young children aged 6–23 months. A mixed-effects multi-level logistic regression model was employed using STATA version 16.0.

Results
The proportions of infants and young children who received the MADs in Ethiopia were 4.1%, 7.3%, and 11.3% during the survey periods of 2011, 2016, and 2019, respectively. Having mothers who attended primary education [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) =2.33 (95% C.I 1.25 to 4.35)], secondary education [aOR = 2.49 (95% C.I 1.03 to 6.45)], or higher education [aOR = 4.02 (95% C.I 1.53 to 10.54)] compared to those who never attended formal education. Being in a medium househoold wealth [aOR = 4.06 (95% C.I 1.41 to 11.72)], higher-level wealth [aOR = 4.91 (95% C.I 1.49 to 16.13)] compared to those in the lowest househoold wealth. Being in 12–18 months age group [aOR = 2.12 (95% C.I 1.25 to 3.58)] and in 18–23 months age category [aOR = 2.23 (1.29 to 3.82)] compared to 6–11 months age group; and having postnatal check-ups [aOR = 2.16 (95% C.I 1.31 to 3.55)] compared to their counterparts. Moreover, residing in urban [aOR = 3.40 (95% C.I 1.73 to 6.68)]; living in a communities’ where majority had a media exposure [aOR 1.80 (95% C.1.17 to 2.77)] were found to be significantly influenc consumption of the MAD.

Conclusions
The trends of MAD among children of 6–23 months was steady in Ethiopia. Sociodemographic and socioeconomic factors such as maternal education, child age, household wealth; and health system related factors such as maternal postnatal check-ups had a significant influence on infants’ and young children’s MAD feeding. Indeed, commnity-level factors such as place of residence, and media exposure affect the MAD of infants and young children. Thus, behavioral change communication interventions are recommended to improve dietary practices in infants and young children.
4 Steps To My Future (4STMF): protocol for a universal school-based pilot and feasibility study of a CBT-based psychoeducational intervention to support psychological well-being amongst young adolescents in the Western Cape, South Africa
Authors: Coetzee Bronwynè J. , Loades Maria E. , Human Suzanne , Gericke Hermine , Loxton Helene , Laning Gerrit , Myburgh Naomi , Stallard Paul 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
Mental health problems often emerge during middle childhood and adolescence. In South Africa, and in the context of high rates of poverty, violence, and adversity, many children are at a considerable risk for developing mental health problems. Access to and costs of mental health services preclude treatment for most. There is evidence that universal school-based prevention programmes are effective in well-resourced settings. However, little is known about the feasibility and acceptability of such programmes in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), including South Africa.

Methods
This is a feasibility pilot study of 4 Steps To My Future (4STMF), a Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) school-based programme for young adolescents in the Western Cape, South Africa. This eight-session intervention will be delivered to children in grade 5 (aged 10–13 years approximately) attending two public government-run schools in the Western Cape, South Africa. We aim to enrol approximately 224 children in grade 5. We will randomise which school receives the intervention first and the other will be a delayed intervention group. We will train individuals with a post-graduate degree in psychology to facilitate the programme. We will collect demographic data on participants as well as data on primary (feasibility measures) and secondary outcomes (mental health and well-being measures). We will collect data at baseline, post-intervention, and at 1-month follow-up.

Discussion
This pilot study will provide data on the acceptability and feasibility of delivering a universal school-based prevention programme in South African schools. The study will provide preliminary data to inform the design of a full-scale randomised controlled trial (RCT) of a universal school-based mental health programme aimed at preventing mental health problems.

Trial registration
This trial is registered with the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/TrialDisplay.aspx?TrialID=10881) database, with unique identification number for the registry: PACTR202004803366609. Registered on 24 April 2020.
Robust estimation of time-dependent precision matrix with application to the cryptocurrency market
Authors: Stolfi Paola , Bernardi Mauro , Vergni Davide 
Published: May 2022

AbstractMost financial signals show time dependency that, combined with noisy and extreme events, poses serious problems in the parameter estimations of statistical models. Moreover, when addressing asset pricing, portfolio selection, and investment strategies, accurate estimates of the relationship among assets are as necessary as are delicate in a time-dependent context. In this regard, fundamental tools that increasingly attract research interests are precision matrix and graphical models, which are able to obtain insights into the joint evolution of financial quantities. In this paper, we present a robust divergence estimator for a time-varying precision matrix that can manage both the extreme events and time-dependency that affect financial time series. Furthermore, we provide an algorithm to handle parameter estimations that uses the “maximization–minimization” approach. We apply the methodology to synthetic data to test its performances. Then, we consider the cryptocurrency market as a real data application, given its remarkable suitability for the proposed method because of its volatile and unregulated nature.
Efficacy of instillation of MB49 cells and thermoreversible polymeric gel in urothelial bladder carcinoma immunization
Authors: Santana Jhonne Pedro Pedott , Marcato Priscyla Daniely , Massaro Tais Nader Chrysostomo , Godoy Naiane Lima , Anibal Fernanda de Freitas , Borra Ricardo Carneiro 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
Activating the immune system for therapeutic benefit has long been a goal in immunology, especially in cancer treatment, but the low immunogenicity of antitumor vaccines remains a limiting factor in the fight against malignant neoplasms. The increase in the immunogenicity of weak antigens using biodegradable polymers, such as chitosan, has been observed in the field of cancer immunotherapy. However, the effects of the vaccine using a combination of tumor cells and a thermoreversible delivery system based on chitosan in bladder cancer models, mainly using the intravesical route to stimulate the antitumor immune response, are unknown. We propose to evaluate the efficacy of a polymeric gel matrix (TPG) formed by poloxamer 407 and chitosan, associated with MB49 cells, as an intravesical antitumor vaccine using a C57BL/6 murine model of bladder urothelial carcinoma. The effectiveness of immunization was analyzed with the formation of three experimental groups: Control, TPG and TPG + MB49. In the vaccination phase, the TPG + MB49 group underwent a traumatic injury to the bladder wall with immediate intravesical instillation of the vaccine compound containing MB49 cells embedded in TPG. The TPG group was subjected to the same procedures using the compound containing the gel diluted in medium, and the control group using only the medium. After 21 days, the animals were challenged with tumor induction.

Results
In vitro tests showed loss of viability and inability to proliferate after exposure to TPG. In vivo tests showed that animals previously immunized with TPG + MB49 had higher cumulative survival, as well as significantly lower bladder weight and size in contrast to the other two groups that did not show a statistically different tumor evolution. In addition, the splenocytes of these animals also showed a higher rate of antitumor cytotoxicity in relation to the TPG and control groups.

Conclusions
We can conclude that MB49 cells embedded in a polymeric thermoreversible gel matrix with chitosan used in the form of an intravesical vaccine are able to stimulate the immune response and affect the development of the bladder tumor in an orthotopic and syngeneic C57BL/6 murine model.
Good response to plasmapheresis and mycophenolate mofetil in a patient with anti-synthetase syndrome associated with peripheral neuritis and severe prosthetic aortic valve stenosis
Authors: Ismail Zahraa Nour Eldine , Abdellatif Elham Azmy Abdulkader 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) are a disease complex that encompasses several distinctly acquired muscle illnesses. Anti-synthetase syndrome is a subset of IIM that is characterized by the presence of antibodies against aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (ARS). This syndrome has a characteristic phenotype of IIM. Anti-synthetase syndrome was rarely associated with peripheral nerve involvement and endocarditis.

Case presentation
We report a 46-year-old female patient with a history of mitral and aortic valve replacement for seven years and on warfarin, presented with symmetrical muscular weakness, generalized edema, progressive dyspnea, dysphagia, fever, fatigue, myalgia, and polyarthralgia. The motor power grading was 2 in proximal muscles of upper limbs and 3 in the distal muscles involving hands and wrists, and it was 0 in proximal muscles in lower limbs and 2 in distal muscles involving ankle and toes movements. Also, her oxygen saturation decreased remarkably. Echocardiography revealed that the patient had severe stenosis (70%) of the prosthetic aortic valve. Electrophysiological studies showed axonal polyneuropathy with average F wave latencies. She was diagnosed with anti-synthetase syndrome for elevated muscle enzymes, interstitial lung disease (ILD), mechanic’s hands, fever, polyarthralgia, and positive anti-Jo-1 antibody. There was a significant improvement with plasmapheresis, mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), and high-dose prednisolone.

Conclusions
To the best of our knowledge, this is a case of anti-synthetase syndrome accompanied by neuropathic involvement and cardiac valve prosthetic stenosis. These were reported as an unusual presentation of the anti-synthetase syndrome. The significant improvement with plasmapheresis gives us a treatment choice for similar critical cases.